In this episode, Caroline & Andrew discuss their individual philosophies around parenting. 

There is no one way to parent. Although so many of us fly by the seats of our pants when it comes to parenting, it can be really helpful to develop your own parenting philosophy, or set of guiding principles, that you follow as a parent. Your philosophy influences everything from what you say, what you do, and how you interact with your children. The goal is to align your beliefs, values, words, and actions to be the parent you want to be. 

Listen in on what Caroline & Andrew have to say and think about, What kind of parent do you want to be?

Check out this PARENTING VALUES resource to get you started!

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We all have them. Parenting regrets. No one is perfect and we all make mistakes. 

In today's episode, Caroline shares her regrets. 

Warning! She becomes a blubbering mess. 

What are your regrets? What have you learned that can help you be a little bit better tomorrow?

Yay parenting!

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Everyone seems to have an opinion on disciplining our children. In today's episode, Andy & Caroline talk about their beliefs about discipline and punishment.

Check out this BEHAVIOUR RESOURCE to help you analyze behaviors and think purposefully about how you can be proactive when dealing with behaviours.

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In today's episode, Andy asks Caroline when kids could benefit from therapy.

Caroline talks about the importance of early intervention. And how, things like anxiety, only get worse over time. Children don't outgrow it. 

They also talk about how anxious parents = anxious kids. And how our own anxiety as parents gets in the way of our children's own resilience and self-regulation.

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In today's episode, Caroline asks about what she and Andrew do well as parents and what they do poorly (individually as parents).

They each take a turn talking about what they think they do well and what they can work on for themselves AND for each other.

Apparently, Caroline is the gong show of the parent... Find out why!

She also talks a lot about communicating effectively with your kids. Here are RESOURCES to help you practice effective communication.

Again, great opportunities to reflect on how we parent, what we have learned, and how we can do a little bit better tomorrow.

What do you do well? What is one small step you can take to do something a little differently?

Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions!

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In today's episode, Andrew and I chat about what we think are the most important traits for kids to develop.

We talk all about resilience, accountability, creativity, and inspiration.

(And skydiving vs. base-jumping. What would you choose!?)


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If you have more than one child, chances are pretty darn good that there is some sibling rivalry happening. They might love each other and play beautifully one second and the next they are screaming at each other or punching each other in the face. 

 Younger children tend to be more physically aggressive, whereas older kiddos tend to get verbally argumentative. 

 Sibling rivalry can actually be healthy as they learn to express their needs and manage conflict. So we really don’t want to be jumping in all the time – these are great learning opportunities for them. The task then, is to know when to jump in or not. 

 We definitely want to be proactive and work on helping your children improve their relationships. But, there will be times we will need to react. 

Here are some of the things we discuss:

•  Identify your red-line, or non-negotiables. 
• Create a plan (and don’t get involved!). 
• Don't take sides. 
• Talk later. 
• Listen. 

We also talked about:

• Teenage Mutant Ninja turtles 

 Check out these additional resources:

•  Article on SIBLING RIVALRY based on some of the things we talked about in this episode.
• The Helping Sisters Game to end Sibling Rivalry
• Caroline also talks more on sibling rivalry in this VIDEO

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The greatest challenge to parents at one point or another is getting your kids to JUST GO TO SLEEP! A good sleep schedule is crucial to a happy home life. When your kid or kids aren't sleeping well, nobody is and it can make life harder than it needs to be. 

After clarifying which Ninja Turtle she feels she really is, followed by telling the world just how gross her favourite pizza toppings are, Caroline pulls a fast one on Andrew by making him answer his own question to kick off the episode. 

From there we dive right in to discuss our thoughts on sleep schedules, building off of Andrew's amazing take on the topic, and providing insight from our own experience on drawing the line no matter how tough it was. 

A good sleep schedule sets the kids up for success for their entire lives. 

Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions!

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 Today Andrew and Caroline talk about this important topic about how much screen time should kids get.

Screens have become a large part of our everyday life.  Although there are recommended guidelines for screen use, most kids get fare more access than they should. And its only gotten worse since COVID.

Unfortunately, screens affect kids’ cognitive, social, and emotional development, as well as their physical and mental health. It affects sleep, memory and learning, mood, anxiety, and behaviour.

Wondering if your child is getting too much screentime (and having problems managing it)? Check out this SCREENER and see.

If you think working on screentime is important for you and your child (and it likely is - the sooner you start, the easier it will be in the future), check out this HANDOUT to see which area you should start on. You can also check out Caroline's ARTICLE on how to manage screens for even more ideas.

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Caroline kicks off the episode by calling back to a previous episode where Andy called her out on her planning skills.  Andy highlights that free-spirited living requires someone to work on keeping the details straight. Caroline calls Andy an enabler. 

From there they move on to the actual topic of conversation, which is how to protect those unique traits that make your kids unique.

With all that the world throws at our kids, it seems like they grow up so fast. The discussion focuses on how to try and model the behaviour we want our kids to hold on to for as long as possible, the pressures of the outside world, and how to help kids navigate those situations.

Can we help them to build up enough resilience to fend off those pressures when we're not there to protect them?

What are the steps that we can take to help younger kids prepare themselves?

Is there anything we can do to help older kids reclaim some of that youthful exuberance?

There's a lot to unfold in the hopes we can let our kids be kids for as long as possible.

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In light of a mistake one of the kids made on an exam, Caroline and Andy discuss what they think a parent's role is in their child's education.

Andy, being the less educated of the duo shocks the world with the admission that he didn't enjoy his scholastic years, which led to his parents needing to ride him more to get his school work done. More than what he finds he needs to do with the girls on a regular basis.

Caroline recognizes Andy's incredible ability to "prune" useless knowledge from his brain making him smarter and smarter all the time. It's true. She said he's wicked smart.

Then the kids interrupt to make us question pretty much everything we said up to that point.

It's an episode filled with ups and downs, and Caroline makes up a word.

Enjoy!

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Everyone has an expectation of what being a parent is going to be like, and in this episode, we dive into how reality actually lines up.

From being terrified of the evenings to having to clean up way more poo than can be imagined, the reality was vastly different from anything we could have imagined.

Regardless of expectations, there were things we did to get through it that made the reality bearable and fortified us as parents.

Dive in and enjoy!

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Caroline starts the show by admitting she's grumpy. Andrew tries not to make any moves that can be perceived as aggression.

From there the episode becomes a bit more philosophical in terms of taking a good long look at our lives.... before it's too late.

To kick things off, Andrew drops a bombshell on Caroline by letting her know that he's no longer in his fantasy hockey pools. Bigger news than he expected it to be.

After that, the discussion shifts towards the fact that we often realize we have come too far down a track we don't like. And wonder how we got there. We discuss the track we recognize we need to jump off of and the changes we must make to bring joy back in our lives.

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As a parent, chances are that at least one of your daily routines are hectic and stressful, whether getting ready for school in the morning or going to bed at night. your mornings can be a bit hectic… not to mention, stressful. However, that doesn’t need to be the case. 

Listen in to today’s episode where Caroline and Andrew share insights on how to make routines easier on you and your family (while also building increased confidence, independence, and self-control).

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Caroline starts out by asking Andy a question and immediately saying he was wrong.

This episode is going to be a bumpy ride.

From there they dive into discussing money and kids and what allowances are really intended to do. Highlighting the lessons they hope to teach kids about how they earn money, and what to do with the money once they have it.

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It's a big day as Caroline and Andrew welcome their very first guest on the POTY Podcast, Dr. Hendrie Weisinger, who is a leading authority on the application of emotional intelligence and anger management and the originator of the highly regarded techniques of criticism training as well as a pioneer in the emerging field of "pressure management"

He joins the POTY Podcast to talk about pressure management for kids and families, and how parents can form better methods of dealing with and overcoming pressure. Both external and the ones we place on them as parents.

Check out more of Dr. Weisinger at:

@PressureTweets
www.hankweisingerphd.com

And you can find his book Performing Under Pressure on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3wEYiLc

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It seems there have been more and more tragic events happening in our world. With the stress of COVID the past two years, followed by the war in Ukraine, and now mass shootings - the most recent last week at an elementary school, it has been emotionally overwhelming, to say the least.

It can be very difficult to know whether to talk about these events with our children and what to share. In today's episode, Andrew and Caroline talk about whether we should share these events.

If you want real professional guidelines you can go a step further and check out Caroline's other podcast episode where she gets into specific details. You can check out that episode HERE.

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Accountability - a recurring theme on the podcast becomes the focal point of the entire episode this week.

Caroline and Andrew dive into the question around when a kid should take accountability and when they should stand up for themselves.

It's a balance that everyone should know, but it's an important discussion to have with kids so they know when to take ownership of their mistakes, and when they need to push back and stand up for themselves.

(PS Sorry if this is a duplicate for some of you - it was accidentally released too early a few weeks ago!)


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In this week's episode, we had the fantastic opportunity to chat with Dr. Todd Kashdan about the importance of parents being involved in helping their kids decipher what they are presented with from the outside world and how to communicate with them in an inquisitive manner (versus dictation).

It's a great conversation about reshaping our interactions with our kids to help them build their resilience and other important skills they need to optimize their success and independence in life.

 
Find out more about Dr. Kashdan

And, check out his awesome new book, The Art of Insubordination: How to Dissent and Defy Effectively. I loved reading every word of it. This book is truly the essential guide for anyone seeking to be heard, make a change, and rebel against an unhealthy status quo. And, importantly, he talks about cultivating curiosity, courage, and independent critical thinking in youth.

If you haven't already, be sure to join our Facebook group for extra resources! 

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In this week's episode, Caroline and Andy dive into the relationships we have with our kids, and how they line up to the types of relationships we want to have with them.

Every parent views the relationship between them and their child differently: some subscribe to a teacher/student model, others more of a BFF model. Over time our relationships change whether we want them to or not and this discussion is about how different our relationships are from our ideal, and what we might be able to do to realign them.

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As a psychologist working with families, Caroline sees many parents get upset when their kids act rude, disrespectful, unappreciative, and even downright mean. Parents always comment, “I would never even dream of saying that to my parent when I was a kid!” and are left feeling angry, hurt, and unsure of what to do. 

Unfortunately, we have created a culture of disrespect over the years and we have seen (and experienced!) how pervasive it is for children and teens to be rude and disrespectful to adults. 

We won’t go into the details of why – that is a whole other episode (though media certainly plays a big piece in it). However, the question for today is, do we put up with it?

Parents are stressed, which has only gotten worse since COVID (and, researchers have shown that COVID has left parents feeling far more stressed than people without kids). Parenting can be awesome, but it can also be an exhausting job that is worsened when our kids yell at us, ignore us, argue with us, call us names, take us for granted, and never show any appreciation for all we do. 

Join Caroline and Andrew in today’s episode where they chat about whether we should put up with all the disrespect and thanklessness.

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In this week's episode, the Doctor and Whatshisface discuss their summer so far, and focus on how to make the most of the time remaining before the rush of school and sports is upon us.

Through analyzing the things we have and have not done so far this summer, it becomes apparent that, to make the most of what's left of summer, being proactive in making a plan and sticking to it offers the best shot at having the most fun.

In addition, Caroline offers some solid exercises that parents can do themselves if they feel they want to get more out of the time with kids during the summer and beyond. Check out the free ebook here: https://bit.ly/2022summerguide

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As our eldest child enters her teenage years, we discuss the best way to handle the inevitable transition from full-time family member to independent human with her own interests and time away from us. 

The importance of creating a safe space for our kids and our friends is a key piece of the discussion, as well as finding the balance between the freedom to go out on their own and staying home instead. 

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We all know we need to take care of ourselves first before we can be effective parents. We always hear the analogy of how we need to put our oxygen masks on first in an emergency on an airplane before we put on our kids. And yet, so many parents don’t. 

How come? Well, some believe it’s self-indulging or selfish. Some blame lack of energy. Or time. Time is a big one – we’re too busy taking care of our kids that we cannot carve time for ourselves. In the early years, it might be no time to shower, get dressed, or even go to the bathroom when we need to. 

We need to be clear – self-care keeps us healthy emotionally, mentally, socially, and physically, which we need to be effective parents. Self-indulgence is binge-watching Netflix with a bottle of wine as your children cry themselves to sleep. Self-care though is what we need to keep our minds, hearts, and bodies functioning optimally. 

We all likely know exercising regularly and getting enough sleep are important. But self-care includes the basic things we do to take care of ourselves, like brushing our teeth, eating healthfully and regularly, and getting dressed in the morning. 

Self-care really is not optional. If you were sick with a medical concern, you’d likely go to the doctor right away. We need to address our personal well-being in just the same way so we don’t experience stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. 

In today’s episode, Andrew and Caroline talk about our need to engage in self-care. (And, Caroline introduced Andrew to the phrase, “We should all over ourselves,” which he thoroughly enjoyed.) 

They acknowledge how hard self-care is, how they are failing at it, and one thing they can focus on to start taking better care of themselves. For themselves. For each other. And, for their children. 

They also encourage you to take stock and make a plan. What are you doing well? What areas of self-care are you neglecting? What is one area you could make a priority and focus on for today, tomorrow, and the next week that would make all the difference in the world to help you respond to your kids in calm, patient, loving ways regardless of their behaviours? What is the first step you could work on today to move in that direction? 

Check out the Parent’s Guide to Self-Care  Caroline created to help parents get on the right track. 

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How do we give corrective feedback so our kids will listen?

As a parent, we are given the responsibility to protect our children and ensure we meet their needs. But, an equally important responsibility is to guide our children’s behaviour and help them learn from their behaviours.

To do so, we need to offer corrective feedback. 

Unfortunately, some children either anxiously and shamefully nod and walk away, beating themselves up for being so bad, dumb, or useless. Or, others will lash out angrily, telling us how we are the ones being mean.

In today’s episode, Andrew and Caroline talk about how to give corrective feedback so kids will listen. Yes, there is a way to provide feedback in helpful ways that kiddos will not only listen to but will also take up and learn from.

And, there is a shocking revelation that makes Caroline cry.

Don’t miss out on today’s episode!

AND, for expert tips, check out Caroline's article on How to give feedback your kids will accept

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In this episode, we dive into the Pursuit of Happiness as parents and how we address this in our lives and our kids' lives. 

The continual pursuit of being happy based on the wrong drivers is an endless pursuit and one that leaves us more unsatisfied in the end. Looking at those same drivers or motivators in regards to our kids' happiness and recognizing opportunities to be happy, we get into how we can set the right example for kids that gives them the tools they can rely on throughout their lives to just live in the present moment and appreciate it for what it is. 

Caroline talks about how it's not helpful (and can actually be harmful) to tell kids to look for the bright side. 

More than pursuing happiness, we discuss how it's more important to look for contentment. 

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Teaching our kids new skills can be fun for all, but what happens when your kid doesn't want to learn that new thing, even though you think they should? 

In this week's episode, Caroline and Andrew use a recent situation with one of their own children in this very situation. We talk about how we make it more about learning something new that might be fun, as opposed to getting locked into a stalemate where nobody wins, or ultimately enjoys what they're doing. 

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Today the Dynamic Duo discuss the things that they are judgmental of other parents about. 

Every parent is human so it's tough to expect that everyone is perfect all the time, but there are certain behaviours that are just non-starters, and when they happen what do you do about it?

At what point should you cross the line and become a participant instead of a silent observer, or is there ever a time when that is appropriate? 

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With back to school just around the corner, the Doctor and her sidekick start things off by clearing up that it's the kids and not Andrew that are going back to school. 

From there they dig into more important topics like who sleeps in until when, why Andrew stayed up too late, and what Caroline thought of the movie The Nice Guys. 

For those that have stuck around to this point, they finally get around to this week's topic...how do parents balance being supportive of our kids without taking away their chance to fail (as a way for them to learn). 

Part of a sound strategy is about balancing preparation with accountability, and being PROACTIVE! If we spend the time helping them get things ready before they actually need them, things should run smoothly. 

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All parents worry about their kids. It’s inevitable. 

In today’s episode, Andrew and Caroline talk about what they worry about their kids going back to school. Although Caroline initially stated she wasn’t worried about anything, upon further reflection she admitted that she did, in fact, have one worry. 

What do you worry most about your kids going back to school? It’s important to acknowledge these worries so you don’t get too involved and create a self-fulfilling prophecy or create unnecessary stress for your kiddos. 

To help you get thinking, here are some common worries parents have about school:

·        Are my kids happy at school?

·        Are they learning? And doing well in school?

·        Are they fitting in?

·        Are they being bullied?

·        Are they eating lunch?

None of these were Caroline’s worries – tune in to see what she has to say! 

And, bonus, at the end of the episode there is an epilogue in which Caroline and Andrew ask their girls how they rate as parents on the awesome scale...

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As parents we want our kids to enjoy school as much as possible, but what if our kids aren't getting the full experience? What if they don't love school and aren't doing anything to get involved and make the most of it? 

In this week's episode, Caroline and Andrew dive into whether parents should force their kids to be more involved when it just isn't their thing. 

Growing up Caroline was heavily involved and loved her school experience. Andrew? Not so much. So, surprising absolutely nobody, the answer comes from opposite directions.  

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As kids get older, begin to become more independent, and take on more obligations and responsibilities, how can parents best set them up to manage their responsibilities well?

Caroline and Andrew dive into whether it's better to be a helicopter parent that guides their kids through the challenges of managing their increasingly busy lives, or whether it's better to let your kid fail to learn a lesson. 

This episode jumps into how best to help your kids to manage their responsibilities before they take on too many and risk failure. 

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So much to be grateful for!  

Although Caroline had a specific question she wanted to ask, the conversation was quickly derailed, as it does. And she ended up asking, "Why the heck did we have kids?"

This is an important question to ask ourselves (and remind ourselves!) - especially in the thick of drudgery that can sometimes come with parenting.  

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It can be a tricky, awkward subject, but we gotta talk about it. 

Sex. 

It's so important so that our kids can take pleasure in their bodies, love themselves without shame, and take responsibility for their sexual experiences. 

Sex is not a topic we can ignore, despite how uncomfortable we or our children might feel. If we ignore it, we send all sorts of terrible shame messages. 

And, to really drive the point home, researchers have shown time and time again that talking to our kids about sex makes them less susceptible to sexual abuse AND, bonus, more likely to delay sex to later ages.

Today Andrew and Caroline talk about their perspectives on how to talk to kids about sex. They have some very enlightening ideas that you don’t want to miss out on, including perspectives to consider if you have a son and/or daughter. 

And, here are some tips to consider as well:

Don’t let others have the talk. Kids will learn faulty information and come up with their own (usually problematic) ideas. You can certainly find out what kids are learning in school but it’s important you address their unasked questions and fill in the gaps – they aren’t learning everything they need to know.

Normalize. It’s important to normalize how you talk about our body parts (after all, a penis is a body part like an elbow, there are just additional considerations we need to talk about) and the act of sex itself so kids feel comfortable in their own skin.

Talk sooner than later. You never want to wait too long – it gets too awkward, your kids might not listen, and it might be too late anyway. Starting early often helps everyone get used to the subject, reduces awkwardness, and makes future conversations easier.

Continue the talk. The sex talk is not one-and-done. You’re going to give a little information at a time in an age-appropriate way. And continue to have the conversation with more age-appropriate information as kids get older.

Talk about everything, no matter how uncomfortable. There is so much more to learn than missionary-style traditional sex, the logistics of baby-making, and avoiding sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

Yes, do talk about oral sex. Masturbation. Navigating relationships. Sexual orientation.  If you make the sex talk taboo (even if it’s just one or two topics), we send the message that sex is shameful.

Yes, do talk about orgasms and enjoying the body and everything that comes with it.

Discuss consent. Early and often. This is an important but often overlooked topic. Consent is so important regardless of gender. We love this Cup of Tea consent video, which we showed our kids from time to time as they got older, giving more insight and information once they could understand more. 

And, to help you with this conversation, Caroline created THIS GUIDE with ideas of what to talk about depending on the ages of your kids: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/sex-talk-guide-book/

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Our job as parents is to protect our children as well as help guide their behaviours so they can be independent, successful adults. On the one hand, setting limits is so important to keep our kids safe, guide their behaviour, and teach self-discipline.

On the other hand, restrictions could inhibit the things we want our kids to learn like taking responsibility, being accountable, and making smart choices. 

Today Andrew and Caroline tackle this tricky subject.

If we put restrictions on things then we must consider things like, what are we doing to help our kids learn responsibility? To make good choices? To manage their behaviours?

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To start things off the dynamic duo talk a lot about the Doctor's issues with temperature regulation, followed promptly by a quick check-in about whether she is, or is not, currently going through menopause (SPOILER ALERT! She's not)

From there the topic shifts to the main discussion of whether our kids are great simply because that's who they are, or did we as parents do such a fantastic job that we can hit cruise control for the remainder of our time as caregivers. 

We discuss a lot about parental red lines and how expectations play a role in our child's behaviour? 

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Get up, rush to get ready for the day, go to a full day of school, navigate friendship fires, write some tests, rush home to get ready for afterschool activities while wolfing down a bite of something – anything  - madly scramble homework in the car, get home, and fall into bed exhausted. Wake up and do it again tomorrow. While this might seem extreme so many kids have nonstop schedules. And, as they get older, some have to squeeze in work somewhere in there.

While kids thrive with busy schedules, there is such a thing as too much. There needs to be a balance of hard work, busy days, and time to simply do nothing. This is an important lesson parents need to help their kids learn.

While Caroline says there’s no such thing as balance (explaining the need to be 100% “in it,” whatever “it” may happen to be from one moment to the next, she and Andrew discuss how to teach kids to balance all the things in their life.

A well-balanced life means you actually get to enjoy it as you live it.

Be sure to check out the 12 Lessons to teach kids about life balance! (https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/essentialskillsforlifebalance1/)

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Caroline brings in another guest on this week's episode to help us understand a little more about the teenage brain and the effects of things like vaping on that powerful, though extremely vulnerable brain.  



About Miriam:

Dr. Mandel is a board-certified pediatrician. She did her internship at St Vincent’s Sisters of Charity Hospital in New York and completed her residency at Carolinas’ Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. After Moving to Ohio in January of 2003, she worked in private practice in Lake County and as a pediatric hospitalist at St. John’s Hospital in West Lake. She worked at both locations for nine years.

While working with children and raising two of her own, she came to realize the importance of mindfulness and self-soothing skills that can be nurtured from childhood into late adolescence. Building upon this foundation, her research suggests that young people can develop into more mindful adults while enhancing a sense of self-esteem using simple tools such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and a bit of understanding about habitual behaviors. She is a health and wellness coach for teens and young adults and strives to help eliminate whatever suffering these young people are going through daily. 

Dr. Mandel’s research in this area has spanned more than 13 years, and she has been honored to work with students in elementary schools and grade schools.  Additionally, she has performed education sessions for educators K-12, doctors, nurses and nurse practitioners, and university and graduate students.  This well-rounded applied research over an extensive period has provided Dr. Mandel with a unique perspective on the importance of teaching individuals to live happier, more productive, and less stressful lives.

Combining this research with her knowledge and passion for medicine, she delivers simple, effective information to help transform lives.

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Poor sleep is common in the perinatal population (i.e., new- and soon-to-be-moms), which can lead to insomnia.  Chronic insomnia is extremely problematic for the mother's emotional and physical well-being, the mother-baby bonding, and the baby's social and emotional development. Worse, it can be very hard to treat and women often relapse.

Unfortunately, far too many people (including our primary healthcare providers) dismiss, normalize, and even expect new moms to complain about sleep deprivation. In today's episode, perinatal sleep expert Paige Rome discusses the importance of learning more about sleep and using cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) to effectively prevent and treat insomnia for new moms. Don't miss out!

Here are some resources on this topic

Self-Guided Programs 

Say Goodnight To Insomnia (Gregg D. Jacobs): https://www.amazon.ca/Say-Good-Night-Insomnia-Drug-Free/dp/0805089586/ref=asc_df_0805089586/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292914176058&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8731545489246029181&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1001793&hvtargid=pla-433834290456&psc=1

End The Insomnia Struggle (Colleen Ehrnstrom): https://www.amazon.ca/End-Insomnia-Struggle-Step-Step/dp/1626253439/ref=sr_1_1?crid=98NLTWGNTTRL&keywords=end+the+insomnia+struggle&qid=1668441926&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjMxIiwicXNhIjoiMS4wMSIsInFzcCI6IjAuOTkifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=end+the+insomnia+struggle%2Cstripbooks%2C131&sr=1-1

More about Paige:

Paige Rome is a recent Masters of Counselling Psychology graduate working towards registration as a Psychologist in Calgary with a focus in sleep psychology and perinatal mental health. Paige is certified in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia) and hopes to explore its potential as a preventative treatment option for those at high risk for the development of insomnia, including perinatal women. Paige is also a mom to four boys, the youngest of whom is only 6 weeks old...so she knows a thing or two herself about sleep deprivation.

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In this week's episode, Caroline and Andrew discuss how to make the most of the holidays while setting realistic family expectations, managing gift-giving, and setting up traditions.

From their own experience, they discuss how they struggled with managing holiday expectations and the need to establish new ones that put the kids first.

They also touch on the importance of establishing traditions and how to make the holidays memorable.

Here is also a holiday resource guide for other important things to remember to make the most of the holidays: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/holidayguide/

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This week's episode is a very free-form discussion about confrontation and how to teach kids to safely stand up for themselves and others. Especially when interacting with adults. The balance between doing good and staying safe is a tough thing to manage at times. Nonetheless, it is important for kids to understand when and how to stand up for what they think is right. 

Based on a recent encounter in which a random adult confronted one of the kids at a sporting event, Andrew and Caroline discuss how kids can learn to stand up for themselves when they get into a confrontation. 

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People fight. Conflict is a normal part of any relationship. Even with the people we love the most. And especially the people we live with. We fight about little things like clearing the counter when we’re done making a sandwich to big things like who’s spending what money. 

While normal, is it ok for kids to see their parents fight?

Yes, fighting can be stressful for kids at any time. However, it does not need to be postponed until you are behind closed doors. Seeing parents fight can actually be a good thing. When done correctly. Listen in to today’s episode to hear more as Caroline and Andrew discuss this important topic.

And check out this extra infographic on how to use these conflicts as opportunities to promote your child's effective communication and conflict-resolution skills: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/effectiveconflictresolutionwithkids/

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In this week's episode, Andrew and Caroline continue their talk about making the most of the holidays while staying happy and healthy during far too cold weather.

If you missed it last week, be sure to check out this guide to help you make the most of your holidays: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/holidayguide/

Caroline also mentions her other podcast, Overpowering Emotions, in which she talks about optimizing mindfulness for the holidays (presence over presents): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/63-special-guest-mindfulness-with-claudio-barrientos/id1618828819?i=1000590714312

And, she also mentioned a Random Acts of Kindness Bingo card you can use for inspiration:  https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/kindnessbingo/

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Happy New Year!

Andrew and Caroline decided to recast their very first episode of Parents of the Year to help parents re-examine their philosophy and values as a parent. 

There is no one way to parent. Although so many of us fly by the seats of our pants when it comes to parenting, it can be really helpful to develop your own parenting philosophy, or set of guiding principles, that you follow as a parent. Your philosophy influences everything from what you say, what you do, and how you interact with your children. The goal is to align your beliefs, values, words, and actions to be the parent you want to be. 

Now is the perfect time to check in and see where things are at. 

Listen in on what Caroline & Andrew have to say and think about, What kind of parent do you want to be?
 
 Check out this PARENTING VALUES resource to get you started!
 

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In this week's episode, Caroline and Andy continue to recast to reset for a positive 2023. Today the focus is on addressing the kind of relationship you have with your kids and how that lines up with the types of relationships you actually want to have with them.

Understanding that gap is critical so you can start working towards filling that gap, bit by bit, a little each day.

Every parent views the relationship between them and their child differently: some subscribe to a teacher/student model, others more of a BFF model. Over time our relationships change whether we want them to or not and this discussion is about how different our relationships are from our ideal, and what we might be able to do to realign them.

As part of a parenting challenge Caroline runs, she created a workbook to address important things including your values as a parent and your relationship with your children. Work through some of those things yourself here:  https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/parentingvaluesfoundation/

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We are a few weeks into January now, and many people debate whether to make New Year's resolutions. In today’s episode, Andrew raises the question of whether we should do resolutions with our children. 

January is typically a great time to celebrate a new beginning for everyone of all ages – as long as we set ourselves up for success. And this is especially true for children.  

Although neither Caroline nor Andrew are big fans of resolutions per se, they do see the value in building skills of goal setting, which teaches kids numerous skills like initiative, persistence, focus, planning, and prioritizing.

And, this year, they did decide to look at changing habits. After all, now is a great time to help our kids establish and maintain healthy habits that can become ingrained for lifelong success. 

Listen in on what Caroline and Andrew have to say about resolutions with your kids. 

Looking for resources to get started? Here is a resource to help you and your kids set SMART goals: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/goalsettingfamily/

And, want more information? Check out this post  Caroline created on this very topic:   https://korupsychology.ca/resolutions-for-kids/

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Today’s episode took a bit of a sideways turn and went into the realm of religion. Although Caroline was nervous about posting this episode, it is an important topic to consider. Although Andrew and Caroline are not religious themselves, they do see the benefits of spiritual values including the importance of community, our own humanity, and striving towards being our best

Religious commitment and/or spirituality can also have other benefits for children, such as helping set their behavioural GPS, building gratitude and forgiveness, and strengthening social supports. 

Researchers have demonstrated that spirituality is helpful in boosting their physical and mental health, emotion regulation, and overall well-being and life satisfaction – largely because of the time spent meditating. Spending time in nature also has similar benefits.  

Whether religious or spiritual or not, it is helpful to talk about what you stand for as a family. Listen to our episode on values if you haven't already and consider creating your own Family Coat of Arms. Draw a coat of arms and divide it into different sections that represent each of your values. Have your kids help design each section to represent what is most important to your family. Display your coat of arms as a reminder of what you all value. 

Tune in to today’s episode to hear more and consider what you value most for your family. 


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Today Caroline asks Andrew about who the most amazing parents are and why. A question neither of them could answer. Because parenting is hard and no one is perfect at it. Nor should anyone be. Even parenting experts make mistakes and have their areas of challenge. 

And, what lesson are we teaching our kids if we are perfect at anything – we all need to continue learning for our own sake, as well as our kids’!

 But, we all have strengths we need to acknowledge too because it’s easy to get sucked into a vortex of guilt with all the things we don’t do well. 

Today Caroline and Andrew discuss aspects of parenting behaviours others do that they admire and address their own growing edges. 

At the end of the day, being a great parent isn’t solely defined by the behaviours we do day in and day out, our intentions in trying to do our best for our child and promote their well-being is important.  

And modelling how we are trying to do a little bit better today than we did yesterday. 

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In this episode, Caroline and Andrew discuss things they've learned over the years and what they would do differently if they could. 

While it's easy to look back with regret, this week's episode is more about what learnings you can take from earlier in your life as a parent and apply at any stage. 

Rather than focusing on what-ifs and whys, this discussion provided an opportunity to look at how to apply those lessons at any point and how we can still do a little better, today, no matter where we are in our parenting journey. 

It also served as a good reminder to take what time you can with your kids and make the most of it. 

Enjoy!

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This week's episode is different in that instead of discussing a single topic, Andrew gets Caroline's initial reactions to 13 suggested "best parenting" tips from an Inc.com article. 

There is a lot of "advice" out in the world, and it's important that parents don't get into the habit of taking it at face value. By going through each topic, we break down what is good and bad about each example and provide our take. 

Parents need to practice questioning what they're reading if they're ever going to develop the same ability in their kids. 

Enjoy!

 

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As a lot of our discussions go, today's question wasn't the one that Caroline planned on asking, but the question she did ask took us down an important path of discussing how to turn those moments that might be uncomfortable for us as parents into an opportunity to teach our children to be a critical thinker.

Critical thinking is important for understanding the world, including themselves and others. Critical thinking promotes creativity, curiosity, confidence, open-mindedness, and independence, And, critical thinking helps our children build numerous skills, including problem-solving, establishing healthy relationships, considering both sides of an argument, handling peer pressure, reaching goals,   and managing whatever challenges life brings.

Kids are naturally curious about the world around them. While we will answer their innocent questions like why is the sky blue and why do cats meow, adults have a harder time answering more embarrassing and even shocking kinds of questions. Too often, many kids don't receive the same supportive ways of understanding certain topics that adults find too uncomfortable (or worrisome). 

Whether we create opportunities or capitalize on the opportunities that come up naturally, listen in to today's episode to help develop critically-thinking kids. 

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In today's episode, Caroline forgot to change the mic settings so only she can be clearly heard. 

And, once again, Caroline takes the conversation sideways as she debriefs about her earlier conversation with one of her kids' teachers. Nonetheless, the conversation ends up getting to key takeaways we can think about as we support our children and teens on the academic journey.

At the end of the day, no matter what kind of teacher our child has, it is important we take the steps to build the parent-teacher relationship as much as we can, whether our children are in grade 1 or grade 11. Coming in with fists swinging will never get anyone anywhere. Showing respect while maintaining an open, collaborative stance is critical.

We can also help our children build key skills themselves. They all need to learn to advocate for themselves and ask for help - this skill is essential to promote their academic success. They also need to build their tolerance for uncomfortable feelings that come with advocating for themselves and having difficult conversations.   And, of course, our children need to learn to problem-solve tricky situations themselves before we come swooping in.

Caroline ends with a very important point that she hopes all parents hear.

If you'd like more ideas about building the relationship with teachers, see Caroline's blog post on this topic. (Although the focus of the article is debriefing a child's diagnosis of ADHD to the school, there are relationship-building points that are applicable to all). 

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Caroline starts this episode by trying to kill Andrew with chili chocolate disguised as a loving gift. 

After his brush with death, Andrew admits that he's completely unprepared for today's episode but dives into a conversation about how we as parents are depriving kids of the opportunity to learn through experience. 

As part of the last unsupervised generation, it's strange to see how much things have swung in the opposite direction, and in the name of safety, we're stripping kids of the ability to navigate the world on their own. 

Without a blueprint, it's tough for parents to know when they need to protect their kids, and when they need to let their kids have the opportunity to learn through experience; regardless of whether they succeed or fail.

It's important that we allow our kids to learn on their own, without having to rely on their parents. Letting them make mistakes is one of the best ways for them to grow into adults that are capable of assessing and managing risks throughout their lives.  As parents, it's up to us to recognize when they can safely learn independently and get out of the way. 

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In today's episode, Andrew and Caroline discuss whether parents should debrief the day before bedtime.  While there are certainly some benefits, like giving parents quality time to connect with their kids, there are definitely drawbacks, like creating more stress for everyone that can disrupt our sleep quality. 

Be sure to listen in to consider the pros and cons of debriefing the day before bedtime and create a bedtime routine that works best for your family.

Want to learn more (and get some tips on how to debrief effectively)? Be sure to read Caroline's blog on this very topic!  https://korupsychology.ca/debriefing-before-bedtime/

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In today’s episode, Andrew and Caroline discuss concerns about the secret sugar-eating habits one of their girls’ engages in. They discuss how tricky it can be to get our children to make the right food choices while avoiding shaming and developing negative relationships with food. 

Healthy eating habits are crucial for children's overall health, development, mental health, well-being, and optimal functioning of the body and brain. The importance of childhood nutrition on long-term health cannot be overstated.  

Therefore, they also chat about how to promote healthy eating habits.  Want more in-depth tips? Check out Caroline’s blog on dealing with kid's unhealthy eating habits:  https://korupsychology.ca/how-do-we-deal-with-our-childs-unhealthy-eating-habits/

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As parents, we all want our children to be safe. But, should we tell them that the world is a dangerous place? It’s a question that many parents grapple with, and the answer is not always clear-cut. Our words are very influential and while we may be meaning well in talking about safety, we could unwittingly instill unnecessary fear.

In this episode, Andrew and Caroline discuss how we can teach kids about safety without making them scared. Instead, we focus on how we can foster a sense of healthy caution while boosting their confidence and independence. 

Want more tips? Check out Caroline's blog post on this topic! https://korupsychology.ca/how-can-we-teach-kids-about-safety-without-making-them-scared/

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In this week's episode, Andrew quizzes Caroline about what parents can do to help raise emotionally healthy and well-balanced kids. 

Parents modeling positive behaviour is a critical component, as are strong communication skills and finding opportunities to challenge your kids to take on situations that offer them the chance to learn and apply new skills. BUT they're not the only thing. 

The answer to this week's question was actually a topic that is very close to Andrew's heart, Dad Jokes!

Similar to putting our kids into awkward situations, bad Dad Jokes, teach our kids how to handle being embarrassed and dealing with situations that make them feel comfortable. 

To read more about the article that prompted the question, you can read it here https://www.fox5ny.com/news/dad-jokes-could-help-kids-grow-into-healthy-adults-experts-say

And if you need some inspiration on how to embarrass your kids, look no further https://youtu.be/zuOo5nnMcMI

Thanks for all the support, and don't forget to tell your friends!

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This week's episode poses a very thought-provoking question to Andrew, about whether parents should teach their kids parenting skills.

When we had kids, there was no manual for how to do it. Sure, there were countless books out there preaching all sorts of different approaches to parenting. None of which offered the skills parents need to manage everything the world throws at them, and sometimes how to break the cycle that they themselves had to deal with growing up.

So now, as the world becomes more complicated, how do parents help set their kids up with a foundation of habits and values that they can use before they themselves even have kids?

There is no black-or-white approach to parenting, each person does the best they can with what they have, but should we as parents do more to provide our kids with the tools they'll need long before it's their turn?

Enjoy this week's episode and feel free to share it with your friends!

Want to learn more? Check out Caroline's article on this topic! 
https://korupsychology.ca/teaching-kids-to-parent/

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In this week's episode, Andrew presents a question taken from his and Caroline's own childhood, about helping kids to not be invisible. 

Everyone at some point in their life feels like they're ignored or not seen, and for those kids that tend to be more quiet and easygoing, being invisible tends to happen a lot more frequently than they'd like. 

Knowing what it was like when they were kids, and seeing it happen to their girls at times, it was an interesting chance to dive into what makes some kids more invisible and how we as parents can help them to be seen when they want to be. 

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Hold onto your hats, folks, because this podcast episode is a wild ride from start to finish! Join us as we delve into everything from Jam Thumbprint cookies to the intricacies of divorce settlements before we finally land on a topic that really gets us thinking: how important is it to teach our kids about the value of hard work and perseverance in a world where social media influencers seem to achieve overnight success?

We're living in an age where new "celebrities" seem to pop up on our feeds every day, flaunting their lavish lifestyles and promoting the myth of effortless success. But what's the reality behind those shiny social media posts? And more importantly, how can we help our kids to develop the skills and mindset they need to navigate this world of smoke and mirrors?

Join us for a deep dive into the importance of teaching our kids the truth about success and the value of hard work. You won't want to miss it!

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Get ready for a hilarious and eye-opening episode of Parents of the Year! The whole BuzStew family - Andrew, Caroline, and their two daughters - is in the house, and things are about to get wild. 

While the episode was originally planned to poke fun at Caroline's outdated knowledge of current trends, it takes an unexpected turn when the girls expose Andrew's biggest parenting fail. But fear not, because the episode eventually gets back on track, with the family testing Caroline's knowledge of teenage slang. Test your knowledge too - how hip are you with your kids? Tune in to find out and have a laugh with the BuzStew clan!

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 In this week's podcast, Andrew and Caroline talk about the hard topic of bullying. 

While they can share strategies on how to build your child's confidence, resources, and skills (which they do), Caroline also stresses the need to focus on the larger systems to better support students in the first place. 

Bullying is a serious issue that affects many children, and as a parent, it's important to know your role when it comes to bullying. While common, bullying is NOT a normal part of development. Bullying can cause emotional distress, affect academic performance, and even lead to physical harm. These negative effects are immediate and can last your child's lifetime, putting them at risk for other social, emotional, and physical problems throughout their life. 

 Bullying is unacceptable and needs to be stopped immediately. 

While the responsibility is on adults to end bullying, Caroline offers additional resources in her blog on developing important skills, encouraging positive relationships, and working with your child's school to create a safe and supportive environment.   https://korupsychology.ca/raising-resilient-children-help-your-child-manage-bullying/

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The pressure on kids these days is so much more than what we parents had to deal with when we were young. From cell phones to drinking to just making the right decisions without parents there to guide them, it's important to help kids deal with peer pressure in whatever form it takes. 

In this episode, we talk about how important it is to be PROACTIVE in building up your kid's ability to resist peer pressure. Many parents get put into a position where they have to react to a situation in their kid's life, which is too late. It's better to work with your kids on the skills they'll need before they need them. 

And, be sure to check out the blog Caroline wrote on this very topic: https://korupsychology.ca/peer-pressure/

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Nobody likes being put in the position of being the "bad guy" when it comes to parenting. It's those moments when we unintentionally make our partner feel like the villain, leaving us all feeling tangled in a web of emotions. 

It is important to manage those tricky situations effectively, mastering the art of making judgment calls when caught off guard by our kids, creating a safe space where both parents can comfortably make decisions without the fear of being the bad guy,  and strengthening the bond with your partner.

Join Andrew and Caroline as they share personal experiences of the "bad guy" syndrome and discuss the importance of communicating effectively, developing a shared decision-making approach, and avoiding unintentionally casting blame or guilt on each other.

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In this week's episode, we dive deep into our vast, and unquestionably correct knowledge (yeah, right) as parents to provide our take on advice all new parents need to know.

When it comes to having kids, there is nothing that can truly prepare you for your life A.B. (After Baby) quite like experience can. Since you can't gain experience unless you have kids, we thought it would be nice to share what our experience taught us and provide some insights into what we think are the most important lessons for new parents.

And, once again, Caroline also wrote a blog on this topic. CHECK IT OUT! https://korupsychology.ca/things-new-parents-need-to-know/

Enjoy!

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In this thought-provoking episode of Parents of the Year, we delve deep into the complex dynamics of sibling relationships and explore the concept that "fair" doesn't always equate to "equal" Join us as we navigate the intricacies of sibling relationships.

We know that "equal" isn't the best approach when it comes to dividing resources, responsibilities, and privileges within a family. Every child is different.   Tune in as we offer ideas on how to navigate these murky waters of sibling relationships.

And, once again, be sure to check out Caroline's blog post on this topic, which also discusses variables that contribute to this problem and other practical tips on what parents can do: https://korupsychology.ca/when-equal-doesnt-mean-fair/

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When your kids are little, they're sort of a captive audience in terms of hanging out and doing things with you. For us, our summers for the past few years have been spent at our lake from the minute school ends, until we have to be back in town at the beginning of the next school year. 

As kids get older, their interest in doing the same things with just their family might start to wain a bit, so it's important to recognize how to balance family time with independent time. 

Starting early in our kids' lives, we can build a practice of flexibility and give everyone a day to themselves to do whatever they want. That way as kids get older, it's easier for everyone to get an opportunity to do what they want and enjoy as much time together as possible. 

In this week's episode we discuss different ways to manage family time to make the most of summer break!

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In this week’s episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline kick off their summer success series with a topic that resonates with parents everywhere: the pressure to constantly keep our kids busy with academics and activities. This generation of parents is the most stressed out of all the previous generations because of this pressure. 

But what if we told you there's another way?

Join us as we explore the importance of relaxing worries’ grip on us and letting our children simply be kids during the summer months. There is definitely a negative impact of over-scheduling and major benefits to allowing children to experience unstructured play and downtime.

There is this societal expectation that we parents often fall into that drives us to prioritize activities, activities, and activities above all else, which takes a major toll on us and our kids.  We need to debunk this myth that constant productivity and busyness lead to success, and instead, explore the invaluable lessons children can learn from free play and independent exploration.

Don’t miss out on this refreshing conversation. Let’s challenge the status quo, embrace the beauty of simplicity, and rediscover the joy of childhood. Get ready to let go, relax, let your kids be kids, and create a summer filled with memories, laughter, and genuine connection with your children. 

And, be sure to check out Caroline's article on the Downsides of Overscheduling & Power of Unstructured Play ( https://korupsychology.ca/downsides-of-over-scheduling/)

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In this week’s episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss the vital topic of social skills. Join us as we explore the essential abilities our kids need to thrive in their relationships and communication. 

In this engaging discussion, we'll uncover the building blocks of healthy connections. From active listening and empathy to conflict resolution, we'll explore how parents can play a pivotal role in cultivating these foundational skills.

Discover the power of emotional regulation and assertiveness in fostering meaningful interactions. These valuable tools empower our children to express themselves authentically while respecting others' boundaries. 

As we embark on this journey, our mission is clear: to equip parents with the knowledge they need to support their children's social development. Together, let's empower our little ones to navigate the world with confidence, compassion, and the skills they need to build lasting connections. 

Be sure to check out this SUMMER GUIDE for more ideas on building social skills and having the best summer ever. (https://bit.ly/bestsummerever2023)

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As the temperature rises, summertime brings with it a unique set of challenges for parents. How can we maintain a healthy balance between structure and freedom during these sunny months? In this week’s episode of Parents of the Year, we explore navigating the summer break while keeping both parents and children happy.

Join us as we discuss the importance of structure in a child's
life and how it can provide a sense of stability and routine during the often unpredictable summer months. We explore various ways to incorporate structure into your child's day while still allowing them to enjoy the freedom and spontaneity that summer represents.

Further, we explore the importance of open communication with
your child during the summer break and involving them in the decision-making process to set realistic expectations. By involving them in this way, you empower your child while teaching them valuable life skills such as responsibility, time management, and compromise.

So, if you're a parent looking to discover how to achieve the perfect blend of structure and freedom in the summer months, tune in. Together, we'll explore how to create an enriching and enjoyable summer experience for your children while maintaining the necessary structure for their growth and development.

Read more on this topic and be sure to check out this SUMMER GUIDE for more ideas on the importance of structure and routines with lots of practical tips to help you establish these while also having the best summer ever. (https://bit.ly/bestsummerever2023)

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Boredom is a common challenge that children and teens often face. While it feels uncomfortable in the moment, we need to help our kids embrace boredom as a catalyst for growth and development. Boredom is an opportunity to foster creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills. It enhances independence, self-reflection,  and patience. Boredom also gives our kids space to explore their own interests and discover new hobbies. 

As parents, we play an important role in guiding them through this experience and encouraging their exploration. Tune in to hear ideas on how to help children turn boredom into opportunities for learning and personal growth. Giving them opportunities to engage in various activities, both structured and unstructured, help captivate their minds while promoting their imagination and critical thinking.

To support this growth, however, there need to be limits on screen time – otherwise, they will never learn to deal with boredom. It’s important to find the right balance between screen usage and other activities, ensuring that our children have the opportunity to explore different forms of entertainment and engage in meaningful experiences.

Furthermore, we discuss the importance of providing a stimulating environment that encourages curiosity and creativity. From creating a boredom buster jar filled with fun and engaging activities to setting up dedicated spaces for arts and crafts, we'll share practical ideas to inspire parents in cultivating an environment that sparks their child's imagination.

If you're a parent seeking guidance on how to support your child in dealing with boredom, join us in today’s episode of Parents of the Year. Explore strategies, activities, and a fresh perspective on transforming moments of boredom into opportunities for growth, discovery, and joy.

Want ideas for activities to fill your boredom buster jar? Check these ideas:
https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/boredom-buster/ And, be sure to check out this article Caroline wrote on Embracing Boredom 
https://korupsychology.ca/embracing-boredom-helping-kids-manage-and-thrive/

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Overcoming fears and embracing new challenges can be intimidating for children and teens. Nonetheless, stepping outside their comfort zones is a vital skill that will benefit them when they transition back to school and into the future.

On this week’s episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss this important topic. They share practical ideas and strategies to gently encourage your child to explore new experiences during the summer break. By supporting them in stretching their comfort zones, you can help them develop confidence and resilience that will serve them throughout their lives.

Tune in to discover empowering ideas that will inspire you as a
parent to create a summer filled with growth and discovery for your children.
Together, let's unlock their full potential by stretching their comfort zones
and embarking on an exciting journey of personal growth and self-discovery.

Bonus: Check out Caroline's comprehensive guide to conquering back-to-school anxiety here: https://bit.ly/Conquering_Back-to-School_Anxiety

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On this week’s episode of Parents of the Year, we discuss essential routines children should learn during the summer to help their seamless transition from summer break to the upcoming school year.

We understand the challenges parents face when shifting from the relaxed summer schedule to the structured school routine. While it is still important to give our children the time to relax and explore, the summer is a golden opportunity to also help establish healthy habits and routines that will support their lifelong well-being.  After all, routines are crucial for children's development and enable them to thrive socially, emotionally, and even academically. 

Want to learn other practical ideas of critical routines that your children need to develop? Check out this article Caroline wrote to help you lay the groundwork now for lifelong well-being.  (https://korupsychology.ca/essential-routines-for-success-and-well-being/)

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Since Andrew and Caroline are talking all about building kids’ success, they decided to recast a couple of Caroline’s episodes from Overpowering Emotions since they are applicable here as well. 

In today's episode, we recast her discussion about managing back-to-school worries and equipping our children for a smooth and confident transition.  

As the new school year approaches, it's natural for children to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. We understand the challenges parents face in helping their kids
navigate this time of change. This is why we want to share practical strategies to
empower our children for success.  

Join Caroline as she explores effective ways to address those worries that start to creep in while nurturing a supportive environment that encourages open communication and emotional well-being.

It is never too late to help your child build a toolkit of resilience so they embrace any challenge, including the new school year, with excitement and enthusiasm.

If you're a parent, educator, or anyone who cares for children during this time of transition, this episode is a must-listen! Let's ensure our children embark on this back-to-school journey with a strong foundation of support, love, and readiness to thrive. 

If you haven't already, check out Caroline's comprehensive guide to conquering back-to-school anxiety here: https://bit.ly/Conquering_Back-to-School_Anxiety

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Are you ready to kickstart the new school year with ease and confidence? 

Once again,  today's episode is another recast of Caroline's Overpowering Emotions where she presents a treasure trove of valuable tips and strategies to ensure a smooth back-to-school transition for your children and teens. Today she focuses on general routines to focus on to make this year’s transition as smooth as possible.

If you haven't already, check out these additional resources:

• Comprehensive guide to conquering back-to-school anxiety: https://bit.ly/Conquering_Back-to-School_Anxiety
• Summer Guide for a Smooth Back-to School transition: https://korulearninginstitute.ck.page/9357a4d8a3
• Critical routines your children need to develop: https://korupsychology.ca/essential-routines-for-success-and-well-being/

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After a solid discussion around the merits and challenges of having a new dog in the house, Andrew and Caroline come to the conclusion that adult supervision is key to a happy marriage.

From there, they move on to the real topic in our next Back to School episode: Goal Setting.

As with most things, it's important that goals are not something you dictate to your kids, but rather something you work with them on to develop and set. Any time a kid has the opportunity to set their own goals it helps their commitment and follow-through. 

Additionally, it's important to use what you know about your kids to help the set realistic and relevant goals that they'll be excited to work on throughout the coming school year.

Want to read more? Check out Caroline's blog post on goal setting: (https://korupsychology.ca/setting-goals/) AND check out her other podcast, Overpowering Emotions to hear more on goal setting (episode 99 or WATCH)

Along with these other resources:

•  Problem-solving (https://korupsychology.ca/develop-problem-solving-skills/) 
• Making informed decisions (https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/resilience-unleashed-7088903090866712577/)

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Unfiltered and unapologetic, Caroline and Andrew  kick off with a reality check - because let's face it, adulting comes with its own set of "joys." 😂  Yes, getting old sucks, and they're not as young as they'd like to believe they are.

After that, Caroline has a pop quiz for Andrew, where she wants to know how much he knows about Executive Functions. (SPOILER ALERT! Not Much!)

This episode's topic gives us a chance to drill down into what executive functioning skills are and what parents should be focused on with our kids.   From planning to self-control, we're uncovering the skills that deserve a front-row seat in our kids' growth journey. Tune in and join the conversation! 

Be sure to Caroline's blog on this topic: https://korupsychology.ca/executive-functioning-skills/

And, if you want to see what skills might be beneficial for your kiddos to work on, check out this checklist: https://livesinthebalance.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ALSUP-2020.pdf

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Welcome to our latest episode of Parents of the Year. We are in our Back to School Success series and decided to recast one of Caroline's previous episodes on separation anxiety since it is particularly relevant after a long break away from school.

While it's natural for young children to experience some level of separation anxiety, it becomes a concern when it persists into the elementary school years and starts affecting their daily activities, such as attending school or socializing with friends.

Balancing the desire to ease children's distress with effective strategies can be challenging. We must avoid falling into common pitfalls that inadvertently reinforce anxiety, such as allowing avoidance or excessive reassurance.

In today's episode, Caroline tackles these potential traps head-on. We will explore how to navigate separation anxiety in a way that empowers children to confront and manage their discomfort, enabling them to gain mastery over the challenging thoughts and emotions that accompany it.

Tune in to discover valuable insights that can make a lasting difference in how we support children through their separation anxiety journey.

If you're interested in learning more about School Avoidance, be sure to check out her three-part series. Tune in to Part 1. 

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After a debrief about dog ownership and the joys of raising a puppy, we dive into a discussion about how to handle a situation involving kids, a horror movie, and being outside in the dark. It's a perfect example of why we're the reigning champs of parenting.

From there, we have the opportunity to speak with a very special guest, Donna Fields, Ph.D., about homework, teaching, and how to help give your kids agency in learning, a game-changing approach that puts students in the driver's seat of their educational journey.  Donna brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, shedding light on how we can empower students to take charge of their learning. Imagine a world where students are engaged, motivated, and actively shaping their educational path!   

It was an absolute pleasure to have her on the show. Tune in as we explore the power of agency in learning to transform the learning experience.

And, be sure to check out this awesome resource Donna has shared with questions and tips on creating the perfect home learning environment: https://mailchi.mp/scaffoldingmagic/buzanko
This resource will guide you in crafting a space that fosters effective learning and growth.

About Donna Fields

Donna Lee Fields, Ph.D., author (101 Scaffolding Techniques for the Content and Language Teacher), professor (Universidad de Jaén, Universidad de Valencia, Spain), teacher-trainer, and collaborator with international educational institutions such as Oxford University Press (Spain, U.K., Italy), Richmond Press (Latin America, Spain), York Press (U.K., Egypt), Educluster (Finland), and Programa BEDA (Spain). Donna specialises in innovative language and content teaching including the CLIL approach and Phenomenon-Based Learning. Creator of scaffoldingmagic.com, an award-nominated website designed to provide teachers with resources to help to turn competencies into action, she has published the first four volumes of What if..The Comprehensive Guide to Creating Phenomenon-Based Learning Projects. She is also exploring a plethora of educational practices in her podcast Doorways to Learning with Donna, and Fairy Tale Fridays Flips!

https://scaffoldingmagic.com/contact-donna/
scaffoldingmagic.com
@doorways-to-learning
donna@scaffoldingmagic.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100013063380557

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This week's topic is one that most parents don't like to admit and that's which one of their kids is their favourite. According to an article published by the BBC, Parental Differential Treatment (PDT) occurs in over 65% of families with long-standing effects for all siblings. 

In this episode, we talk about favouritism, and how to connect with your kids in a meaningful way to help them feel loved and supported. As parents, it can sometimes be easy to gravitate toward one kid over another but that doesn't mean there's no opportunities to connect with your other kids in equally meaningful ways. 

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It seems like everywhere you turn the "hustle culture" is telling you to do more and to be more, but at what cost? Just being a parent isn't enough sometimes, and we're left to feel like we need to sacrifice our time, relationships, and mental health to achieve all our dreams.

But what do you do when you're too focused on things that take you away from your family?

That's what we dive into this week, with self-professed over-achiever Meghan DeVito, who brings her own experience and expertise to the discussion. Meghan went through her own challenges where her drive to succeed professionally left her feeling burnt out and disconnected from her own family, so she put her efforts towards rebuilding herself, her family, and her view of what is important in life.

From that process, Meghan found a new passion for helping others to recognize the need for boundaries and how to implement them to become the parent and person they want to be. 

Meghan has generously offered a FREE Coaching Session, which you can access here: https://www.meghandevito.com/book-a-free-coaching-call

About Meghan

Meghan DeVito, a Boundary Coach, and mentor, is fueled by personal triumph and enduring faith. With 19 years of sobriety under her belt and a testament to the power of breaking generational cycles, she's on a mission to guide individuals toward lives of freedom and fulfillment. She understands the life-saving power of well-established boundaries and the importance of starving distractions to pave the way for the treasure of peace in all areas of life.

Website: https://www.meghandevito.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meghandevitolifecoach 
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/meghan.devito/

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This week's episode has us diving into what it takes to be a successful parent at a pivotal point in our parenting journey.  After a tough week, our topic really hits home in working through how we can use commitment devices to be the parent we want to be. 

A key tool that we dive into is the use of specific commitment devices that can help us outline the things we want to do better and one thing that can help is a specific device that helps foster the behaviour we want to exhibit. 

Enjoy!

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When we're who we want to be as a couple it totally shows in our parenting. Raising happy, resilient kids starts with the kind of relationships we have as parents.

Having a strong partnership is the cornerstone of being a good parent, but how do you ensure you're on the same page as your spouse when it comes to your kids? In this week's episode, we're very pleased to welcome Sharon Costanzo to discuss how both parents can approach challenges in their relationship in a way that ensures you're heard and respectful of your partner. 

Every relationship encounters challenges, and it's a couple's ability to see that challenge as something to overcome together, that determines their success and happiness together. Learning how to work together rather than being adversaries no matter how big the problem is, helps forge stronger relationships while demonstrating to your kids healthy communication methods. 

Be sure to check out these resources;

• FREE ebook: 12 no-BS rules for navigating relationship challenges without feeling like a bully or a doormat (keeptalkingrevolution.com/nobs)
• Workbook: Respected and Connected: Tools and insights for creating healthy, collaborative relationships (https://amzn.to/47ndU63)

About Sharon
Sharon is a coach, podcast host, and founder of Respected + Connected, a coaching program & community that helps women improve communication in their marriage so that they can navigate their challenges without feeling like a bully or a doormat. She is known for her compassionate, pragmatic, and optimistic approach to challenging relationships.

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Welcome to another episode of Parents of the Year, “where Andrew and Caroline bring insightful discussions about the challenges and joys of parenthood. Today we have a critical and increasingly relevant topic to discuss: the teen mental health crisis and the correlation with parents’ mental health.

According to the World Health Organization, globally, anxiety and depression are the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents. Additionally, suicide is the third leading cause of death in 15-19-year-olds. These statistics are not just alarming for the teens but also indicative of a larger systemic issue affecting families.

The emotional and psychological well-being of a teen is intricately linked to that of their parent(s). Depressed teens are five times more likely to have a parent who is also struggling with depression. 

In today’s episode, Andrew and Caroline discuss the state of the world today and the importance of parents identifying their core values and creating a home everyone looks forward to returning to—a home that is safe, non-judgmental, and fully accepting. Caroline also wrote an article for those interested in learning the most important actionable strategies we need to implement to support both teens and parents (https://korupsychology.ca/teen-mental-health-crisis/). 

Don't miss this episode for safeguarding your family's mental well-being. 

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In this week's episode, we dive into how to prepare our kids for a future that we ourselves don't understand. 

When we were growing up we were taught to go to school, get a good job, buy a house, raise a family, etc and recently it feels more like that future is waiting for our kids. 

So what do we do? 

How do we set our kids up for success no matter what the future holds, or what they want to do with their lives?

So join us as we look into our crystal ball to talk this out. 

Enjoy!

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This week's episode has us welcoming another guest to talk about burnout and the effect it can have on parents and families.

Dr. Christina Fontana is a pharmacist, business transformation coach, and speaker who brings her unique perspective on handling burnout and the effects it can have on families.

Everyone struggles with having to deal with too much at one point or another, and it's important to recognize the signs and have a plan on how to help get things back on track.

About Dr. Christina Fontana

Dr. Christina Fontana, AKA The Pharmacist Coach®️, is a pharmacist, holistic healer, rapid transformation business coach, speaker, and 5-time author. She helps spiritually-driven women to ‘Reignite Your Light’ and shine in their brilliance, confidence, and true essence.

She started her entrepreneurial journey 11 years ago being disempowered, homeless, broke, with eating disorders, PTSD, and anxiety, and has since transformed, turning her pain into purpose, empowering women all over the world to step into more purpose, power, and prosperity.

Over the last 11 years, Dr. Christina has been providing uplifting, transformational content through her YouTube videos, books, courses, programs, and retreats. Her mission is to help more healers and business owners unlock their innate gifts to create a domino effect of healing on the world.

Check out this free resource from Christina! 

Where to find her:
IG - @thepharmacistcoach
Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/244625093553163
YouTube - www.youtube.com/christinatarantola1
Website - www.pharmacistcoach.com

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In this critically important episode, Andrew and Caroline delve deep into the crucial phase of 'Birth to Three,' a pivotal time for brain development in children.

Together, with guest expert Michelle Mintz, we explore how early experiences—from parent-child bonding to environmental stimuli—shape the brain's architecture and lay the foundation for our children’s future well-being.

We answer the question, “What can I do to make the most out of the time I spend with my baby?” by sharing practical strategies for fostering emotional intelligence, cognitive skills, and resilience in your child during these formative years. Don't miss this must-listen episode.


About Michelle
Michelle Mintz, M.S., CCC-SLP, The Early Development Expert's background is as a Speech-Language Pathologist for over 25 years, specializing in working with children from birth to 5 years old. Her therapy experiences inspired her to create her unique company, Baby Blooming Moments®, which empowers mom, dads, grandparents, siblings, and nannies with babies birth to three, to enrich the way they interact with their babies and toddlers.

Through Baby Blooming Moments, available in the US and Internationally, families get one-on-one coaching experiences, virtually or in-person, to learn essential strategies that can be integrated throughout the day.

Get in touch with Michelle:
babybloomingmoments.com
Instagram, Facebook @babybloomingmoments
youtube.com/@babybloomingmoments
https://tiktok.com/@babybloomingmoments

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With Halloween just around the corner, we try to get to the bottom of one of the greatest mysteries of our time.....is our ensuite bathroom haunted or is it just that our house is falling apart? The verdict is still out. (PS - the night of this recording, the light went back on in the middle of the night....)

From there we dive into the intricate balance of keeping your children safe during this season of haunts while also empowering them to build autonomy and resilience. We examine how, as parents, our fears and concerns can unintentionally overshadow what's truly beneficial for our children. As with most things parenting-related, it's important to ensure you're looking at the situation from what is best for your kid and not to service your own fears and concerns. 
 
Enjoy!

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This week's episode looks at what we as parents should do to help our kids deal with conflict. The need for some parents to jump in to fix a situation is at times contrary to what kids actually need. To help our kids learn how to handle different situations, it's important for parents to know when to step in and when to step aside. 

There's no formula, and no perfect answer as every situation is different, so it comes down to helping our kids know what they can do to help themselves, and when they can come ask for help. 

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For parents of boys, how do you raise them to be men who are caring and compassionate? This week's episode discusses the unique situation that faces boys and men alike. 

Where can parents start in order to improve the emotional inner world of their boys? Is there a way to recognize and deal with gender bias, differences between boys and girls, and dealing with the "Boy Code"? 

We're extremely lucky to be joined by Kathryne Imabayashi, a former educator and mother who dealt with these very questions while raising her own son. 

Be sure to check out these FREE RESOURCES:
https://sonhood.thinkific.com/courses/5-pivotal-tips-on-parenting-boys
https://sonhood.thinkific.com/courses/the-3-day-challenge-for-parents-of-boys
https://sonhood.thinkific.com/courses/the-3-pillar-guide-to-raising-boys

About Kathryne Imabayashi

Guiding children and their parents as they are making sense of their world has been Kathryn's lifetime mission, with an intense focus and passion to help raise our boys better. She spent almost three decades researching the dichotomy between what our boys are and what society often tells them they are. She works with busy parents raising their sons to become remarkable men, and educators to recognize the challenges boys face in our current educational system.

Achievements

• Guiding a sweet little boy into becoming a kind, caring and compassionate man.
• Completed her first book: What's It All About, Mom? and is working on a memoir, Shogun, Assassinations & Sea-hawks as well as a parenting book, Raising Boys to Become Remarkable Men - Birth to 7.
• Founder of Sonhood Coaching

 Where to find Kathryne

 Email: sonhoodcoaching@gmail.com

Website:: sonhoodcoaching.com

 IG: https://www.instagram.com/sonhoodcoaching/
 

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Every parent knows the challenge of getting their kids to properly brush their teeth, but do they know why it's important? What about the type of products you should, or shouldn't, be using?

Good dental hygiene is important to the overall lifelong health of kids, so we invited an expert to join us this week to discuss everything about dental health, from how to brush to how to deal with anxiety around visiting the dentist. Heather the Hygienist stops by to share her knowledge from years of professional experience. 

Be sure to access Heather's discount code of 35% off all the best all-natural oral care products on the market on her website with code: CAROLINE35

Check out these books: Dorothy and the Tale of the Lost Tooth and Dentistry for Dummies (a handbook to help navigate the world of dentistry)


About Heather the Hygienist
Heather the Hygienist is a certified biological and registered dental hygienist for over 25 years, an author of 3 books, a public speaker, a dental consultant, and owner of Simply Silver Mouthwash.  She's passionate about educating people on the importance of oral care and how it relates to systemic health.

Where to find Heather

Heather@simplysilvermouthwash.com
 www.simplysilvermouthwash.com
 https://www.instagram.com/simplysilvermouthwash/
 https://www.tiktok.com/@heatherthehygienist1

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Are you worried your child might be entitled? Getting a bit too spoiled? You're not alone! It's a common concern for many parents, and the good news is, it's never too late to make a positive change.

Nobody sets out to raise entitled children, but it can happen over time without us realizing it. In the first part of a two-part episode, we talk about the steps parents can take to "unspoil" their kids. 

 We understand that nobody intentionally sets out to spoil their children, but sometimes, in our pursuit of trying to be good parents, it just happens. It's all about the small steps and everyday actions.

As with most things, behavioural change starts with us. A big part of changing behaviours requires parents to model and reinforce what they want to see. But how do you start to figure things out and get back on track?

In this episode, we walk through the practical steps we can start to take to shift the dynamic and transform entitlement into responsibility, independence, and empowerment. 

Join us for part 1 as we navigate this journey together, fostering a healthy, balanced environment for our children to thrive.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this discussion next week!

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In the second part of our discussion around how to unspoil your kids, this week's episode sees us diving into how not to rescue your kids, the importance of sitting with big emotions, and how you need to get comfortable with being unpopular with your kids sometimes. 

Also, for those who are interested, you can check out the original article that prompted our discussion using the link below. 

Access to the article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-un-spoil-your-kid-according-to-parenting-experts-goog_l_65367932e4b0689b3fbd5861

Enjoy!

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Join Andrew and Caroline this week as they explore the beautiful journey of creating and cherishing lifelong memories with your family. In a world where life's small and big moments often pass by unnoticed, they shed light on the importance of capturing and celebrating every one of them.

Andrew and Caroline share creative ideas on establishing traditions that not only become the highlights of your family's year but also weave a legacy of joy, connection, and togetherness. From the cozy corners of everyday life to the grandeur of holiday celebrations, discover how to acknowledge, appreciate, and immortalize these precious times.

Perfect for parents who want to enrich their family's life with meaningful experiences and lasting bonds, this episode is a must-listen. It's time to transform the way you view family moments and embrace the magic in the mundane.

Tune in and start making every moment count.  And, be sure to also check out Caroline's comprehensive holiday guide to make the most of your holiday experience: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/holidayguide/

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In this special replay of a past holiday favourite, join Caroline and Andrew as they revisit the essential topic of navigating the holiday season. This episode remains as relevant and insightful as ever, offering practical advice on setting realistic family expectations, managing the complexities of gift-giving, and the significance of establishing meaningful traditions.

Drawing from their personal experiences, Caroline and Andrew share their journey in overcoming challenges associated with holiday expectations, especially in prioritizing the well-being of their children during this festive time.

They also delve into the creation and importance of family traditions, providing listeners with unique ideas on making the holidays truly memorable.

Additionally, don't miss Caroline's updated, comprehensive holiday resource guide, packed with key tips and strategies to enhance your holiday experience: https://bit.ly/unwrapholidaymagic2023

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In this encore presentation of a previous episode, Andrew and Caroline delve deeper into the art of enjoying the holidays to the fullest, focusing on maintaining happiness and health during the chilly weather.

For those who might have missed it, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive guide, an invaluable resource for maximizing your holiday experience - there is still time! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/holidayguide/

Additionally, Caroline shares a Random Acts of Kindness Bingo card for spreading joy and kindness during the holidays: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/kindnessbingo/

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As January unfolds, the tradition of setting New Year's resolutions becomes a topic of discussion in many households. In this (last!) replay of a thought-provoking episode, Andrew sparks a conversation about the appropriateness of involving children in the practice of making resolutions.

Acknowledging January as an ideal time for embracing new beginnings for individuals of all ages, this episode emphasizes the importance of setting achievable goals, particularly for children. This approach fosters a sense of accomplishment and readiness for success.

While Caroline and Andrew express a general reservation towards resolutions themselves, they highlight the significant benefits of teaching children goal-setting skills. Such skills, including initiative, persistence, focus, planning, and prioritizing, are invaluable for personal development.

In this episode, they also explore the concept of habit change. Recognizing the start of the year as an opportune time, they discuss strategies to help children establish and maintain healthy habits, setting the foundation for lifelong success.

Tune in to hear Caroline and Andrew's insights on guiding children through resolutions and goal setting. 

For those seeking practical tools to begin this journey, here is a resource for setting SMART goals with your family: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/goalsettingfamily/

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Step into an example of exceptional parenting on today's episode of Parents of the Year!  Or rather, learn from Andrew's epic failure this week. He recently faced a common parenting challenge – giving simple corrective feedback to one of his daughters in a way that she would listen (and, ideally, learn from). Spoiler alert: It didn't go as smoothly as he hoped. 

As Andrew grappled with his daughter's stormy exit, he questioned if there's a better way to navigate these moments or if kids simply need to tough it out. 

Effective corrective feedback is really a secret superpower in a parent's toolkit! It's the key to your child's learning and skill development. With the right feedback, children gain valuable insights into their actions, fueling continuous growth, resilience, and self-regulation. Making them tough it out is not the way to go.

Tune in to this episode as we explore the art of providing corrective feedback to children effectively. Discover how to communicate in a way that fosters understanding and connection rather than frustration and resistance.

For an even deeper dive into this crucial topic, don't miss Caroline's illuminating article on effective corrective feedback: https://korupsychology.ca/effective-corrective-feedback/

Become the best parent you can be by mastering the art of corrective feedback. Tune in now! 

     

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In today's episode of POTY (Parents of the Year), we dive into a thought-provoking topic that challenges traditional wisdom. Join Caroline and Andrew as they discuss why teaching kids to talk to strangers can be a crucial skill in their development.

As parents and caregivers, our primary concern is often the safety and well-being of our children. The conventional wisdom has always been to instill a sense of caution and fear when it comes to strangers. However, this approach might not always be in the best interest of our kids.

Teaching our kids to avoid strangers can be problematic in so many ways. And, there are actually benefits of teaching kids how to interact with unfamiliar faces. Here are just a few:

• Building Social Skills: Encouraging children to engage in polite conversations with strangers can help them develop crucial social skills, such as empathy, active listening, and effective communication.
• Boosting Confidence: Learning to chat with new people can boost a child's self-esteem and confidence, which can be invaluable in various aspects of life.
• Safety Awareness: Contrary to common belief, educating kids about safe interactions with strangers can make them more discerning and aware of potential risks, rather than instilling fear.
• Emergency Situations: Understanding how to seek help from strangers can be crucial in emergencies, ensuring that children know who to turn to when they need assistance.

Join us as we explore the nuances of this controversial topic and provide practical tips for parents and caregivers to strike a balance between safety and using potentially important opportunities that will promote essential life skills.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a fresh perspective on the idea of teaching kids to talk to strangers and a better understanding of how this approach can empower our children in today's complex world.

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