Are you a parent who struggles with how to respond when your child says hurtful things? Do you feel caught between wanting to discipline them and wanting to maintain a strong bond? What if I told you there's another approach to help you build a closer connection with your child while teaching them important life lessons? In a world where punishment and consequences are the norm, it can be hard to imagine a different way of parenting. But by using affection and play, you can turn your child's unk...
Jan 18, 2024•14 min•Season 4Ep. 281
Imagine that you have just asked your child to clean their room, but instead of cooperating, you are met with resistance. Frustration builds up, and you think, "How can I make them listen?" Today, we will explore the essence of discipline and understand the significant difference between limits and consequences. In a world where traditional approaches often rely on punishments and rewards, I want to introduce you to a more empathetic path. The aim is to unravel the misconception that limits and ...
Jan 16, 2024•12 min•Season 4Ep. 280
Have you ever experienced your child's unkind comments that made you feel like their emotional punching bag? In today's episode, we will delve into this common belief that we, as parents, often feel victimized by our children's behavior. Let's explore why we tend to assume this role and challenge this perception. We will examine the power dynamics between us and our little ones and see if there is a more empowering way to handle such situations. 🔗 Interested in our 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discover...
Jan 11, 2024•14 min•Season 4Ep. 279
Let me share a secret with you about connection, it's not about more time; it's about making every moment count. Today on the Peace and Parenting podcast I delve into the magic of connection. What is it, really? It's not about sacrificing every second or dodging boundaries. It's about building a holistic relationship with room for mess-ups and repair. It's about creating a safe space where mistakes are part of the journey, not the end of it. Plus, I have an exciting invitation for you! Join my 3...
Jan 09, 2024•13 min•Season 4Ep. 278
Do you feel society’s pressure pushing our kids to go to college? Well, today on the Peace and Parenting Podcast I want to break free from the college-or-bust narrative! In this episode, I dive deep into the pressures our children face to go to college, not just in the U.S., but across the globe. My daughter, Esme, recently faced the daunting decision of leaving for college, sparking a candid conversation at our dinner table. From alternative paths like community college to challenging the link ...
Jan 04, 2024•10 min•Season 4Ep. 277
Imagine this: you're at the grocery store, your child throws an unexpected tantrum, and suddenly, you feel the judgmental eyes of society on you. I get it; I've been there. In this episode I unravel the myth of the "good mom" and the relentless pressure we put on ourselves. Together, we'll explore the historical roots of this pressure, the need for control, and the generational traumas we unknowingly carry. Let's break free from the cycle of judgment and embrace the imperfect, beautiful journey ...
Jan 02, 2024•15 min•Season 4Ep. 276
Are you currently in a toxic relationship, but you're staying in it for the sake of your children? Today, I am joined by Kate Anthony, the author of "The D-Word," as we explore the topic of divorce, co-parenting, and the difficult decision-making process that many women have to go through when considering divorce. Kate shares her insights on toxic marriages, societal roles, and how they can affect children. As a divorced parent myself, we both share our personal experiences, discussing our chall...
Dec 28, 2023•34 min•Season 4Ep. 275
Many parents often come to me and say "I don't have enough time to be more connected with my kids." They feel that connecting with their children requires a lot of time and effort. However, my answer to that is that the more connected you are to your children, the more time you will eventually have. You can find small moments in your everyday routine to connect with your kids and you will notice a significant difference in your relationship with them. Today, I am thrilled to announce the launch ...
Dec 26, 2023•10 min•Season 4Ep. 274
Are you struggling to bridge the gap with your older kids through play? Today I am joined by parenting coach Mary Van Geffen in a beautiful conversation that explores the magic of play, especially with the often misunderstood tweens and teens. Mary unveils the secrets of connecting with "spicy" children through play, emphasizing its role as their love language. From penguin wrestling to dance parties, Mary and I share practical tips, creative play ideas, and some unconventional approaches that c...
Dec 21, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 273
Are you using star charts or food rewards to motivate your kids? Do you think it's making a difference in how they respond? Today I want to take you on a reflective journey into the world of parenting strategies. Drawing from my teaching experience, I question the effectiveness of these methods and explore the individual responses our children have to them. I’ll share the long-term effects of relying on external motivators and uncover the transformative power of connected parenting. It’s time to...
Dec 19, 2023•17 min•Season 4Ep. 272
Today, I talk with a parent who is going through a common issue that most of us have faced at some point in our parenting journey - a child who refuses to communicate during tough moments. Kimberly, a follower of my podcast, is experiencing the highs and lows of raising her 3.5-year-old. Despite practicing connective parenting for over a year, she is struggling as it is difficult to connect with her child when they are not willing to communicate. I share her with some insights on shifting focus ...
Dec 14, 2023•24 min•Season 4Ep. 271
When your children are playing, sometimes aggression can surface, and one of your kids might start hitting, causing screaming and crying. Your first instinct might be to console the hurt child, but what if I told you that this approach may not be the best way to resolve the situation? Instead, intervening with connection, empathy, and love can create a turning point and help the aggressive child to calm down. Today, I share some real-life strategies and a counterintuitive approach that emphasize...
Dec 12, 2023•14 min•Season 4Ep. 270
Do your kids often fight with each other and you're looking for a better way to handle such situations? Today, I have Shannon, one of my podcast listeners, on the show to help her tackle the sibling rivalry between her two daughters. Join us as I provide a unique perspective on why addressing the aggressor before the child who was hurt can help resolve the issue faster. We'll also take a deep dive into the complex web of family dynamics and explore how understanding the roots of sibling rivalry ...
Dec 07, 2023•23 min•Season 4Ep. 269
What if just 20 minutes a day could revolutionize your connection with your child? In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative power of "special time" in connective parenting. Join me as we unravel the magic of setting aside dedicated moments, navigating distractions, and witnessing the incredible impact on cooperation and family dynamics. Plus, special time isn't just for little ones – discover how this practice transcends age boundaries. Don't miss this chance to enhance your par...
Dec 05, 2023•19 min•Season 4Ep. 268
In relationships, especially with your kids, it can be difficult to balance control and free will. Today, we'll explore the complex dynamics of autonomy and connection, and how they apply to parenting. We'll question the different standards we set for children, and consider the parallels between adult relationships and conventional parenting. Have you ever had a partner who tried to control you? Imagine living in a relationship where your free will is constantly suppressed. Now, think about how ...
Nov 30, 2023•13 min•Season 4Ep. 267
Have you ever found yourself struggling to manage the needs of your children, especially when they are of different ages and require different levels of attention? Parenting can sometimes feel like a never-ending challenge, and it's not always easy to stay calm and connected with your kids, especially when you're feeling overwhelmed. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Christina, one of my Instagram followers, to discuss this very topic. Christina had a great question that I'm sure...
Nov 28, 2023•34 min•Season 4Ep. 266
As we kick off the holiday season, I've got a special episode for all of you who are navigating family gatherings with kids. From questionable hugs to forced thank-yous, we explore why children shouldn't be burdened with these expectations. Today I discuss cultivating genuine connections, respecting a child's boundaries, and the power of play in diffusing tense moments. Learn how setting limits with a playful twist can transform family dynamics. And for those challenging sibling squabbles or une...
Nov 23, 2023•15 min•Season 4Ep. 265
Picture this scenario: you have spent several hours at Chuck E. Cheese with your child, surrounded by flashing lights, loud noises, and annoying animatronics. It's time to leave but your three-year-old is throwing a tantrum because they want to stay. Today, my guest Shanon and I tackle the challenge of maintaining a strong connection with your child in stimulating environments. I share my secrets for fostering cooperation when traditional discipline methods just won't work. Join us as we take yo...
Nov 21, 2023•19 min•Season 4Ep. 264
Ever tried distracting your kids when they’re in the middle of a meltdown, you know like “Hey, look at that cute puppy over there” or “Wow, a fire engine”. Today we delve into the world of parenting strategies, specifically the age-old methods of distraction and redirection. We'll explore the potential long-term impacts of steering our little ones away from their feelings. Could it inadvertently shape their coping mechanisms down the road? Spoiler alert: Connection is the key! Discover the magic...
Nov 16, 2023•10 min•Season 4Ep. 262
Are you a parent struggling to connect with a child who seems quiet, self-deprecating, and introverted in the face of challenges? You're not alone! I have been struggling with the unique dynamics of parenting children like this with my daughter, Pia. Today I’ll share my personal journey through the ups and downs of supporting Pia, who is transitioning to high school and grappling with schoolwork, low self-esteem, and a different temperament compared to her outspoken sister. The big question here...
Nov 14, 2023•11 min•Season 4Ep. 262
We've all been there – that cringe-worthy moment when your child drops the F-Bomb and you wonder where they picked it up. It can be frustrating and embarrassing, right? Well, today we're diving into the world of kids and profanity. I'll share my own experiences and some powerful insights to help you navigate this challenging phase with empathy and understanding. We'll explore why children might start using these words, the impact of our reactions as parents, and most importantly, how to handle i...
Nov 09, 2023•16 min•Season 4Ep. 259
Are you having a hard time dealing with your child's tantrums or meltdowns? Do you feel like you're all alone and helpless, especially when these emotional outbursts occur in public? I understand how difficult it can be because I've been there too. But I want to tell you something important: tantrums are not an indication of a "bad" child, and you shouldn't feel embarrassed about them. Today, I will discuss the significance of creating space for your child's emotions and utilizing these experien...
Nov 07, 2023•13 min•Season 4Ep. 260
Many people think that the reason I am the parent I am today is because I was a calm and controlled person to begin with. Well, today I invite you to step into my shoes and explore my tumultuous upbringing, shaped by my parents' alcoholism, partying, and a heart-wrenching divorce. It wasn't an easy path. I embarked on a decade-long journey of personal growth, yet I felt ill-prepared to face my parenting challenges. What I realized is that, no matter where you come from, it's your determination t...
Nov 02, 2023•14 min•Season 4Ep. 259
I recently had a heart-to-heart conversation with a parent who was struggling with some very normal parenting challenges. However, she was too harsh on herself and kept blaming herself for the mistakes she made. It's common to feel guilty and ashamed when we make mistakes as parents, but today I want to help you break free from this cycle of self-shaming and focus on growth and self-compassion. We need to challenge the notion that perfection is the only way to be a good parent. In this episode, ...
Oct 31, 2023•14 min•Season 4Ep. 258
Join me in this episode for a refreshingly candid conversation with Caitlin Murray, the creative mind behind Big Time Adulting . Caitlin shares her parenting journey, which started as a way to cope with her son's leukemia diagnosis and turned into a humorous and realistic look at parenthood. We discuss the societal pressures parents face today, the struggle to be the "perfect parent," and the importance of embracing the ups and downs of motherhood without pretense. We explore how to handle negat...
Oct 26, 2023•19 min•Season 4Ep. 257
Being a parent can be tough, especially when your children don't seem to be listening to you and following your guidance. It's a feeling that many parents can relate to and it can be frustrating at times. But did you know that there is a strong link between cooperation and the quality of your relationship with your child? Today I explore some practical strategies that you can use to encourage your kids to cooperate, from playful interactions to the power of asking just once. By implementing thes...
Oct 24, 2023•13 min•Season 4Ep. 256
As parents, we often find ourselves in situations where we need to explain our decisions to our children. But what happens when our kids throw tantrums and refuse to listen to reason? In this episode, I will discuss some effective strategies that can help you deal with these challenging moments. I will explain why trying to reason with your child during a meltdown can often make things worse. Instead, I will offer tips on how to establish a strong connection with your child, even when they are b...
Oct 19, 2023•14 min•Season 4Ep. 255
Today we'll be exploring the topic of burnout - a feeling that is common among many of us, yet often kept to ourselves. As someone who has been a parent for 18 years, I understand the never-ending responsibilities that come with parenthood, as well as the unique challenges of raising children. Many parents can feel isolated and struggle to balance their personal identity with the demands of parenting, which can take a toll on their mental and emotional health. That's why it's essential to make t...
Oct 17, 2023•15 min•Season 4Ep. 254
We all fear repeating the mistakes of the past, especially when it comes to our relationships with our children. In this episode, I open up about my own fears and experiences, reflecting on my connection with my mom and my longing for a different kind of bond with my daughters. We'll explore the power of punishments and why they might not be the best approach for every child. Instead, I'll share practical strategies to nurture connection, like play, empathy, and setting limits with understanding...
Oct 12, 2023•12 min•Season 4Ep. 253
Let's explore the challenging world of co-parenting today. Having been a co-parent with my former spouse for quite some time now, I fully comprehend the complexities involved and the significance of maintaining a positive relationship with your co-parent. Come along with me as we delve into the key factors that contribute to successful co-parenting. We'll also examine the crucial role of avoiding conflicts for the sake of your children and how to protect their emotional well-being. I will share ...
Oct 10, 2023•14 min•Season 4Ep. 249
