Shows
Parenting UnderstoodEp. 156 - The future of child care: A discussion with Joan NguyenIn this episode of Parenting Understood we are joined by Joan Nguyen, founder of Bumo, to discuss the evolving landscape of childcare. Joan highlights how the pandemic exposed critical childcare gaps, transitioning it from a personal issue to an economic one. She explains how Bumo addresses these challenges by offering an online platform for instantly bookable childcare, including unique options like summer camps and school holiday programs. She emphasizes Bumo's commitment to equitable access, providing affordable options alongside premium services. The conversation also covers technology's role in improving parent-provider communication and the future vision of Bumo as a global...2025-06-0131 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 155 - How to support our children in the age of AI: A conversation with Dr. Lauren Girouard-HallamIn this episode, we are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Lauren Girouard-Hallam, an expert in children's development and technology, to discuss the impact of AI on children aged three to twelve. Lauren discusses her current research focusing on how children trust technology over human sources. Her studies reveal an "inverse U" pattern: young children are skeptical, trust peaks around seven to ten years, and declines as they grow older and become more discerning. The conversation highlights the importance of co-viewing technology with children and fostering open discussions about online interactions. Lauren advises parents to engage their children with...2025-05-0836 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 154 - Breaking the cycle of silence, stigma and shame around women’s health: An interview with Dr. Jessica ZuckerIn this episode of "Parenty Understood," we welcome Dr. Jessica Zucker, a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in women's reproductive and maternal mental health. We discuss Dr. Zucker's forthcoming book, "Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame that Shape Women's Lives," which aims to challenge societal taboos surrounding women's health issues from menstruation to menopause. Dr. Zucker shares her personal journey, including her own experience with miscarriage, and her efforts to start the "I Had a Miscarriage" campaign. The conversation underscores the importance of open dialogue to break the cycle of silence, stigma, and shame. To learn...2025-04-2326 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 153 - Temperament and parenting: Understanding temperament to better parentUnderstanding temperament can transform parenting approaches, bringing harmony to the often turbulent journey of raising children. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Sandee McClowry about recognizing that each child's temperament is unique, and how this allows parents to cater their strategies to individual children’s needs. Whether your child is industrious, friendly, cautious, or high maintenance, acknowledging these traits helps in crafting supportive environments. We also discuss how parents must also be aware of their own temperaments to foster better interactions. Using tools like secret signals and timers can ease repetitive conflicts, while puppets and role-play enhance empathy an...2025-04-0922 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 152 - Dr. Ronald Mah: Parents with narcissistic tendenciesDr. Ronald Mah and Michelle discuss how a parent with narcissistic tendencies can impact a child and their development of self. He discusses entitlement, grandiosity, and righteousness, which create a mindset where rules don’t apply. Parenting styles are examined, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries with sensitivity for healthy child development. Problematic parenting styles include permissiveness (too sensitive, no boundaries) and neglect (no sensitivity, no boundaries). The discussion ties into attachment theory, highlighting secure attachment as fostering availability, attunement, and sensitivity.2025-03-2847 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 29 [Revisited] - A Discussion of Self-Regulation with Dr. Clancy BlairThis week we are re-airing a previous episode with Dr Clancy Blair on self-regulation in honor of his life and legacy. Sadly Clancy passed away on Dec. 19th. Clancy was a groundbreaking professor of child development at New York University, died December 19, 2024 in Nashville, TN. He was 63. The author of over 200 scientific articles, Blair was one of the most influential developmental psychologists of his generation. His research fundamentally changed how scientists understand the ways that children are shaped by family, neighborhood, and schools; Professor Blair has had a lasting effect on both scientific research and public policy. C...2025-02-2617 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 151 - Learning more about the new parenting app Riley, with founder and CEO Amanda DeLucaIn this episode, we chat with Amanda DeLuca, founder and CEO of Riley, a platform designed to support new parents with evidence-based information and technology. Amanda shares her journey from a career in technology to becoming a parent and the challenges she faced, including postpartum depression and anxiety. Despite meticulous planning, she and her husband found themselves unprepared for the realities of parenthood. This experience led them to create Riley, an app that provides parents with access to reliable data and personalized advice, alleviating the overwhelming cognitive load. The app personalizes user experiences by integrating data, such as family...2025-02-1324 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 150 - Exploring Perinatal Mood Disorders and Supports for ParentsIn this episode, we are joined by my colleague, Dr. Robin Neuhaus, to discuss recent research of ours on Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMADs) and parenting supports. We highlight the stigma associated with PMADs, leading to underreporting and inadequate support. We emphasize the need for improved screening methods, increased awareness among healthcare providers, and accessible resources for parents. The conversation also touches on the impact of parental leave policies and the importance of support networks. We conclude by advocating for greater inclusivity in research and resources, recognizing the diverse experiences of caregivers. For information on the s...2025-01-2920 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 148 - Routines, Validation, & Confidence: Keys to School SuccessIn this episode, we catch up after a short break, and chat about strategies for easing school transitions, particularly for children experiencing separation anxiety. We discuss the special importance of parental support through acceptance, validation, and confidence-building. We also emphasize establishing routines to provide children with a sense of security and familiarity. We finish up by discussing our personal and professional goals for 2025. 2025-01-0912 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 147 - Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to BeThis episode of Parenting Understood features Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, author of the upcoming book "Post Traumatic Parenting". Dr. Koslowitz, an expert in child development and trauma, discusses the often-overlooked impact of past trauma on parenting. Robyn explains how common coping mechanisms developed in childhood, like people-pleasing, dissociation, and perfectionism, can become obstacles in parenting. These ingrained responses, once helpful, can lead to stress, anger, and disengagement when raising children. Dr. Koslowitz identifies five distinct "post traumatic parenting types". She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and recognizing these patterns. By acknowledging their trauma and its influence, parents can begin to...2024-12-1137 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 146 - Emotional Regulation: It's Not Just for Kids Anymore!This episode of Parenting Understood explores the crucial topic of emotional regulation for both parents and children. Dr. Cindy Hovington, a neuroscientist and parenting expert, explains that emotional regulation is about responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively. She emphasizes that parents' emotional states deeply impact their children, highlighting the importance of modeling healthy emotional responses. The discussion delves into the difference between suppression and true calm, advocating for cognitive reappraisal as a tool to manage emotions effectively. Practical advice includes daily reflection to identify emotional patterns and revisiting challenging situations with children to foster their understanding and growth. Hovington...2024-11-2838 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 145 - Concepts of attachment and self-regulationIn episode 145, Erin and Michelle delve into the concepts of attachment and self-regulation, highlighting their significance in parenting and child development. The hosts discuss how attachment forms a secure base, allowing children to regulate stress and explore their environment. Attachment theory categorizes relationships as either secure, which supports effective self-regulation, or insecure, where stress regulation can be more challenging. Brain research reveals that secure attachments foster more integrated neural activity between the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for emotional regulation. The conversation touches on the potential effects of having mixed attachment styles with...2024-11-1430 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 144 - Navigating the Digital Age with Professor Selcuk SirinIn this latest episode, we discuss with Professor Selcuk Sirin the potential influences of our expanding digital world on parenting and child development. We speak about both preparing children for entering the digital world, as well as supporting them once they are in it. We also touch upon the development of technology, and the various generational responses to it. As an applied psychologist, Dr. Sirin uses empirical research methods to better understand the needs of children and families, and to arm professionals and policy makers with this knowledge so as to better address the needs of the m...2024-10-3130 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 143 - Supporting Civic Engagement among All ChildrenIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Diana Turk to discuss civic engagement and supporting children in their engagement. We explore traditional and critical civic engagement. Diana provides a definition of civic engagement that includes community building, empathy, and understanding diverse perspectives. She emphasizes the importance of involving children in civic activities from a young age, modeling thoughtful discussions, and explaining the "why" behind our actions. Diana provides practical examples, like discussing the reasoning behind supporting a particular cause or candidate, and involving children in community service. She also highlights the importance of empowering neurodivergent children to participate...2024-10-1632 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 142 - How to navigate difficult conversations with grandparentsThis is the first episode in our new biweekly release schedule. In this episode, we discuss permissive grandparents and how to navigate, at times, different parenting styles between parents and grandparents. We acknowledge the vital role grandparents play in a child's life while recognizing the potential challenges of inconsistent parenting styles. We further offer practical advice for parents, when having discussions with grandparents around parenting styles. We stress the importance of patience and understanding, recognizing that changing ingrained behaviors takes time. Ultimately, we provide valuable tools for parents seeking to maintain healthy relationships with grandparents while ensuring consistent guidance...2024-10-0216 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 141 - How do we support literacy in young children with Dr. Susan NeumanIn this episode of Parenting Understood, we delve into early literacy with Dr. Susan Neuman. We discuss creating child-centered learning environments that foster literacy development. Dr. Neuman emphasizes the importance of responsive teacher-child conversations, play, reading, writing, and singing. She highlights the need for a balanced approach to alphabetics and encourages parents to engage children in informational texts. The conversation also touches upon the influence of research on educational policies and the significance of recognizing individual learning styles. To learn more about Dr. Neuman and her work please visit her website Susan Neuman | NYU Steinhardt, LinkedIn profile and Susan...2024-09-2520 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 140 - Social Creatures: The importance of human connectionThis episode of Parents Understood features Dr. Rose Perry and Dr. Natalie Brito discussing Social Creatures, a non-profit focused on social health. Dr. Perry, a social neuroscientist, discusses her research highlighting the impact of early social connections on lifelong well-being, and how her recognizing the societal undervaluing of these connections lead to her founding Social Creatures, which aims to promote health through community building. Drs. Perry and Brito also discuss Social Creatures’ program, Bonded by Baby, which addresses the high prevalence of loneliness among new parents. By connecting parents with similar-aged infants, the program offers crucial social support and co...2024-09-1825 minParenting UnderstoodEp: 139 - Supporting Students with Neurodiversity with Dr. Katie NewhouseIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Katie Scott Newhouse, Clinical Assistant Professor and Program Director of Special Education at New York University, to discuss supporting neurodiverse students in middle childhood. Dr. Newhouse emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual differences and tailoring support strategies accordingly. Transitions, especially back-to-school after summer, can be challenging for neurodiverse students. Strategies discussed include open communication between parents and teachers, visual schedules, social stories, and classroom placement considerations. We highlight the importance of parent advocacy and connecting with community resources. We also touch on the challenges of navigating the school system and the...2024-09-1144 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 138 - Love is Still Winning a conversation with author Dr. Fabienne DoucetIn this episode, we discuss with Dr. Fabienne Doucet her new bilingual picture book "Love is Still Winning." The book tells a story of a child reminding their mother about the enduring power of love and kindness in the world. Fabienne’s professional background in education and her passion for children's literature have intertwined in this project. She sees stories as a powerful tool to initiate conversations about complex issues and to foster understanding. The book encourages readers to explore acts of love in their own lives and communities, promoting a message of hope and resilience. We discuss various wa...2024-09-0421 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 137 - How to Raise a CitizenIn this latest episode, we speak with Dr. Lindsey Cormack about ways parents can support their children in becoming engaged citizens. Lindsey is a civics expert and the author of the book HOW TO RAISE A CITIZEN (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It). We speak with Lindsey about how Americans’ civic knowledge is alarmingly low; how young voters struggle to navigate the complicated system of voter registration, and that civics instruction receives the lowest number of K-12 hours out of any subject. Further, as Lindsey notes, we have a culture of considering political talk to be t...2024-08-2921 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 58 [Revisited] - How to Support Young Children at the Start of the School YearIn this last episode of our back to school series, we speak about starting a new school from the perspectives of parent and child. We draw on our own personal experiences, as well as research in this conversation. We pay special attention to the role of social capital in the transition to a new school year. We also speak on best practices for speaking with our children about how their day went and what they have learned beyond just asking “How was school today?”. 2024-08-2128 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 70 [Revisited] - Motherhood in America with Jessica GroseWe are thrilled to be joined in our first episode of the New Year by Jessica Grose. Jessica is an opinion writer at The New York Times who writes a popular newsletter on parenting. Jessica was the founding editor of Lenny, the email newsletter and website. She also writes about women’s health, culture, politics and grizzly bears. She was named one of LinkedIn’s Next Wave top professionals 35 and under in 2016 and a Glamour “Game Changer” in 2020 for her coverage of parenting in the pandemic. She is the author of the novels Soulmates and Sad Desk Salad. She was formerly a se...2024-08-1428 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 136 - Understanding Giftedness and the Twice Exceptional ChildIn this episode, we welcome Dr. Matthew Zakrowski, a psychologist specializing in gifted and talented, and twice-exceptional children. We define what it means to be gifted and talented, moving beyond the stereotype of high-achieving students to recognizing the unique neurodivergence of gifted children. Dr. Zakrowski emphasizes that parenting gifted children involves comprehensive 360-degree support. Further, he shares insights into the complexities of raising gifted children, noting their intellectual intensity and often precocious behavior. He also provides examples of how children might show their giftedness in unconventional ways. Additionally, he delves into the challenges some gifted children face, including perfectionism...2024-08-0724 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 39 [Revisited] - Using Reward Systems and Token Economies Pt.1 with Dr. Jeanne Donaldson ReleasedIn today’s first of two episodes with Dr. Jeanne Donaldson, we discuss using token economies with children to help them establish positive behaviors. Dr. Donaldson defines what a reward/token economy is and how the functions of a reward system can be used, as well as how to avoid misusing them. Dr. Jeanne Donaldson earned her Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Florida and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the John Hopkins University School of Medicine at the Kennedy Krieger Institute. Her research focuses on solving issues common in early childhood and assessing child an...2024-07-3131 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 135 - The FamilyWell Approach: Rethinking Perinatal Mental Health with Dr. Jess GaultonIn this episode, Dr. Jess Gaulton of FamilyWell Health discusses the increasing awareness and evolving support for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). She highlights the progress made in recognizing these conditions, which were previously dismissed or stigmatized. Dr. Gaulton emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma by sharing personal experiences, as she did with her own struggles with postpartum depression. She introduces FamilyWell Health's innovative care delivery model, which integrates perinatal mental health services directly into existing healthcare systems. This approach involves a collaborative care team of social workers, coaches, therapists, and psychiatric providers, offering comprehensive support through...2024-07-2419 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 134 - The Untold Story of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety DIsorders among Fathers and Non-Birthing ParentsIn this podcast episode, Kevin Seldon, founder of the nonprofit "All Parents Welcome," shares his personal experience of feeling unsupported and isolated as a non-birthing parent. He discusses the lack of resources and awareness for the mental health struggles of non-birthing parents around perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). Kevin emphasizes the importance of changing terminology to include all parents, regardless of gender or birthing experience. He also highlights the need for more research on non-birthing parents, the creation of a self-assessment tool for PMADs, and the importance of involving all parents in the conversation to improve the mental...2024-07-1835 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 105 [Revisited] - Gender, Emotion and Perfectionism: A conversation with Lisa DamourIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Damour about the emotional lives of teenagers. We pay especial attention to the pressures that both genders feel yet how those may be manifested differently across genders, at times. Dr. Damour unpacks parent-child relationships, especially the mother-daughter relationship, and the role of identification in that relationship as girls mature. We also discuss how research methods may not always allow for the identification of areas of concern for boys. Dr. Lisa Damour is the author of three New York Times best sellers: Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers. S...2024-07-1029 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 133 - Dr. Niobe Way: Rebels with a CauseIn this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Niobe Way about her new book, Rebels with a Cause, which expands on her earlier work about boys and friendships. Niobe explores "boy culture," a term she uses to describe the privileging of stereotypically masculine qualities over feminine ones. As she discusses, this creates a crisis of connection for everyone, not just boys and men. Niobe further emphasizes that "hard" and "soft" skills are equally important for being a full human, and should stop being gendered. She also discusses how this cultural imbalance regarding skills affects parenting, research...2024-07-0345 minParenting UnderstoodEp.6 [Revisited] - Combating the Summer Slide: An Interview with Dr. Ashley FallonIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Ashley Fallon, PhD in Early Childhood and Childhood Education from New York University and Director of Mansfield Children’s Center, regarding how to produce summer activities for our children when we are all out of ideas. Dr. Fallon will demonstrate ways to introduce structured and unstructured learning into the summer days to combat “The Summer Slide.” After this episode, you will have easy, fun ways to add learning into children’s and parent’s daily schedules! For any questions or more information regarding this episode, you can reach out to Dr. Fallon...2024-06-2627 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 132 - Divorce without Destruction: A Conversation with attorney Jaime H. DavisOn this episode of Parenting Understood, we are joined by Jaime H. Davis, partner in the family law firm Gailor, Hunt, Davis, Taylor & Gibbs, and podcast host of A Year and A Day: Divorce without Destruction. Jaime discusses the complexities of divorce and how to support both oneself and children through the process. Throughout, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the best interests of children during a divorce, advising parents to avoid involving children in adult conflicts and to ensure they have a stable and predictable routine. Davis offers several tips for parents, including maintaining emotional health by seeking...2024-06-1915 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 131 - Mastering Micro Moments in ParentingIn this episode of Parents Understood, we discuss the importance of micro moments in parenting, and how they can positively impact children and parent-child relationships. We emphasize noticing the good in children's behavior, using soft and gentle touch paired with praise, practicing active listening and validation, incorporating mindful moments to build self-regulation, and setting clear boundaries to promote distress tolerance. These small but meaningful interactions foster a safe and secure environment for children, leading to stronger connections and better communication within the family. We give examples of how these micro moments can be integrated into everyday activities and routines...2024-06-1218 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 130 - A Discussion of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMADS) with Dr. Jessica Gaulton In this episode of Parenting Understood, we are joined by Dr. Jessica Gaulton, a neonatologist and founder of Familywell, about perinatal and postpartum health. We discuss the definition of PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders), emphasizing that it encompasses any mood disorder experienced during pregnancy or within a year after birth. We also highlight the lack of screening for PMADs and the resulting underestimation of their prevalence, emphasizing the importance of recognizing symptoms in both birthing and non-birthing parents. We touch on the sobering statistic that the leading cause of death in the perinatal period is suicide and overdose, o...2024-06-0526 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 129 - Evidence Based Birth with Rebecca DekkerIn this episode of Parenting Understood, we are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Rebecca Dekker founder of Evidence Based Birth. Rebecca is a nurse and researcher who is dedicated to supporting parents in pregnancy and the birthing process. She recounts her traumatic first birth experience, which involved unnecessary interventions and separation from her newborn, and how it led her to research the evidence behind common birthing practices. She found that many practices were not supported by evidence and could even be harmful. This led her to create a platform to share evidence-based birthing information with millions of people...2024-05-2940 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 128 - How to Set Boundaries with Our ChildrenIn this episode, we discuss boundaries with parent coach Cindy Shuster. We talk about what boundaries are and how to establish them with ourselves and our children. We further discuss the core principle of boundaries and why we have them. Additionally, we speak about how to change boundaries once they have been set. Lastly, we address mutual boundary setting. Cindy Shuster, founder of Partner in Parenting, LLC, is a PCI® certified parent coach and a Nurtured Heart Approach® Advanced Trainer. Before earning her parent coach certification, Cindy was a classroom teacher for 10 years and has a B.S...2024-05-2228 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 127 - Underestimated: The Wisdom and Power of Teenage Girls with Chelsey GoodanIn this episode of Parenting Understood we are joined by Chelsey Goodan, author of Underestimated: The Wisdom and Power of Teenage Girls. In this episode we talk about girls’ experiences feeling unheard while also experiencing societal pressures to be perfect and likable. We delve into the role of social media in girls’ views of themselves and others. We further discuss the role of gender in girls and boys identity development. Chelsey also offers advice on how to support girls and to provide strong relationships for them. To learn more about Chelsey and her work please visit: 2024-05-1535 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 126 - How AI Can Help in ParentingThis week we discuss how AI language models, specifically ChatGPT and Gemini, can support us in parenting. We delve into how ChatGPT and Gemini may help with things from crafting meals to creating personalized bedtime stories, generating craft ideas and developing educational games. We note, however, that AI models are best used as a starting point for evidence-based information and should not replace the input of a qualified professional.2024-05-0816 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 125 - The importance of parent-child talk with Dr. Harriet TenenbaumIn this episode of Parenting Understood we speak with Dr. Harriet Tenenbaum about the importance of parent-child talk for a child's development. As we discuss, parents who speak more about emotions with their children help their children understand emotions better. Interestingly, there does not appear to be a large difference between explaining emotions to children and asking them questions about emotions in supporting their learning about emotions. We also address the role of parent talk in both children’s understanding of scientific principles, and in gender stereotyping. For more information on Dr. Tenenbaum and her work please vis...2024-05-0121 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 124 - Preventing Turmoil with Your Toddler around TravelIn this episode, we discuss how a reward chart can support young children when traveling. More specifically, we walk through the key steps to using a reward chart, and the role of supporting positive behaviors. Traveling is a time of transition and often stress for children (and parents) but there are evidence based strategies to support children in the experience. For more information on Spot It and to get a copy please e-mail Michelle at thrivingtoddler@gmail.com2024-04-2415 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 29 [Revisited] - Self-Regulation With Dr. Clancy BlairWe are thrilled to be re-releasing our episode with Dr. Clancy Blair as part of our four week back to school series before our reflection on the past 100 plus episodes in two weeks. Dr. Blair is a developmental psychologist and Professor at New York University, who studies self-regulation in young children. His primary interest concerns the development of cognitive abilities, referred to as executive functions, and the ways in which these aspects of cognition are important for school readiness and early school achievement. He is also interested in the development and evaluation of preschool and elementary school curricula designed...2024-04-1716 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 90 [Revisited] - How to Build a Balanced Plate: Successfully Tackling Selective Eating in Children with Success with Dr. Holly GoverIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Holly Gover, a board-certified behavior analyst with extensive experience working with children with developmental disabilities. Dr. Gover, currently a faculty member in pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins us to tackle a common concern for parents: picky eaters. Dr. Gover shares valuable insights on how to encourage children to try new foods in a relaxed and enjoyable manner, empowering them to feel in control of their eating choices. We also explore the warning signs that may indicate the presence of an eating disorder and discuss the pressures faced...2024-04-1049 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 83 [Revisited] - The Fifth Trimester with Lauren BrodyIn this episode, we are joined by Lauren Smith-Brody, founder of the Fifth Trimester movement and the author of The Fifth Trimester: The Working Mom's Guide to Style, Sanity, and Big Success After Baby. We discuss with Lauren how her work addresses the research and policy around early parenthood, as well as the practical. Lauren speaks about how her work dissects the systems that drive the inequities that make new motherhood, and especially new employed motherhood, so challenging, and her mission to recruit others to speak up about caregivers in their workplace and their needs. Lauren addresses the parallels...2024-04-0341 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 123 - How to Have Difficult Conversations with ChildrenIn this episode, we discuss 9 key principles to consider when having conversations with children around difficult topics, such as illness. We discuss ways to be developmentally appropriate with one’s approach, especially for younger children. In addition, we talk about supports to consider when having these conversations, and the importance of gearing one’s approach towards one’s own child’s needs. Resources: Talking to Children about Cancer Talking to Children about Mental Illness Talking to Children about Death 2024-03-2720 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 122 - Imagining Childhood: Navigating the World of Young Minds with Dr. Paul HarrisIn this episode we are joined by Harvard Professor, Dr. Paul Harris, to delve into the intricate world of children's imagination and its developmental significance. Drawing on his research, Dr. Harris challenges historical views, notably those of Freud and Piaget, highlighting the pragmatic value of children's imaginative play. He shares experiments involving young children's responses to pretend scenarios, revealing their sophisticated understanding and application of imagination in everyday situations. Moreover, Dr. Harris explores children's willingness to believe in unseen phenomena, shedding light on the role of trust, consensus, and attachment in shaping their perceptions. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Harris...2024-03-2028 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 121 - Unlocking Children’s Creativity through Computer ProgrammingIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Felienne Hermans to delve into the world of programming and its significance in children's development. We explore why programming is vital for children, emphasizing their shift from being digital consumers to creators. Felienne underscores the importance of fostering creativity in the digital realm, highlighting how programming empowers children to craft their own digital creations. Felienne also offers insights into age-appropriate programming activities. Moreover, she addresses common misconceptions about programming and offers practical advice for parents looking to engage their children in coding. She stresses the value of choosing activities...2024-03-1324 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 120 - How to Support Child Development through Nutrition: A Conversation with Danielle DuboiseIn this episode, we are joined by Danielle DuBosie, co-Founder of Sakara Life, which merges modern science and ancient healing wisdom. We explore the intricate connection between nutrition, emotions, and childhood development. Danielle, who had a background in functional medicine, delves into the emerging research on the gut microbiome's impact on emotional well-being, emphasizing how food directly influences gut health, which in turn affects mood and mental health. She also advocate for teaching children to discern how different foods make them feel. Danielle shares strategies for fostering a positive relationship with food, such as involving children in meal preparation a...2024-03-0630 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 119 - How to Navigate the Crisis of Connection with our Children: Insights from Professor Pedro NogueraIn this latest episode, Professor Noguera argues for a shift in education, prioritizing both academic achievement and social-emotional development. He highlights how schools often neglect fostering positive student-adult relationships, which are crucial for well-being. Dr. Noguera proposes a holistic approach, emphasizing a supportive environment in schools. Further, we discuss how parents are key in promoting balanced lifestyles and social interactions. We also touch on broader societal trends and the potential impact of AI in education, acknowledging both its potential benefits and concerns about hindering critical thinking skills. To learn more about Dr. Pedro Noguera and his work...2024-02-2822 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 75 [Revisited] - Correlates and Consequences of Human Connection: A Conversation with Dr. Marc Brackett and Dr. Niobe WayIn this episode, we are joined by Drs Marc Brackett and Niobe Way to discuss the importance of human connection for children, teenagers, and adults. We talk about the significance of supportive relationships for healthy social emotional development, and the potential negative effects of a lack of supportive relationships, including violence and self-harm. Further, Marc and Niobe dive into the topic of relational intelligence and ways in which this can be understood and learned. Finally, we discuss how parents can find ways to be the person their children can turn to and how they can go from passing judgment...2024-02-2241 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 118 - Dialectical behavioral therapy: What it is and what it can teach us about interacting with our childrenIn this episode we speak with Dr. Keegan Tangeman about the use of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to support children and adults in overcoming difficult thoughts and behaviors. We speak about the use of this type of therapy in general, as well as with suicidal adolescents. Further, we discuss how the principles of DBT can be used to support children not only in therapy but in their interactions with others. Dr. Tangeman is a licensed, child and adolescent psychologist. He received his doctorate from Pepperdine University and completed his pre-doctoral internship at Morrison Child and Fa...2024-02-1425 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 70 [Revisited] - Motherhood in America with Jessica Grose We are thrilled to be joined in our first episode of the New Year by Jessica Grose. Jessica is an opinion writer at The New York Times who writes a popular newsletter on parenting. Jessica was the founding editor of Lenny, the email newsletter and website. She also writes about women’s health, culture, politics and grizzly bears. She was named one of LinkedIn’s Next Wave top professionals 35 and under in 2016 and a Glamour “Game Changer” in 2020 for her coverage of parenting in the pandemic. She is the author of the novels Soulmates and Sad Desk Salad. She was formerly a se...2024-02-0728 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 117 - Doing it all with Dr. Whitney CasaresIn this episode, Dr. Whitney discusses her book "Doing It All: Stop Over-Functioning and Become the Mom and Person You're Meant to Be." She addresses the challenges faced by mothers who feel overwhelmed and pulled in multiple directions, offering strategies for self-compassion, setting boundaries, and prioritizing what matters most. Dr. Whitney emphasizes the importance of being sensitive and responsive to children's needs, establishing routines, nurturing internal motivation, and modeling emotional regulation. She also advises stressed moms to practice self-compassion, commit to doing less, and focus on the things that matter most to them. Throughout the d...2024-01-3126 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 116 - What are key elements of early literacy: A conversation with Professor Susan NeumanIn this episode, we are joined by Professor Susan Neuman to explore early literacy and how parents can best support their young children. Susan emphasizes the importance of understanding the science of reading and highlights key skills that contribute to a child's success as a reader. The conversation delves into various aspects of early literacy, such as phonological awareness, representational language, and the significance of play. Susan encourages parents to engage in activities that align with their child's interests and emphasizes the need for a balance between structured learning and maintaining the joy of childhood. ...2024-01-2420 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 115 - Building Resilience over ResumesIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Richard Weissbourd to speak about achievement pressure. We discuss how parents can be mindful of the messages they send and how to prioritize children’s well-being over external validation. Dr. Weissbourd speaks as to how collective action is critical to address systemic issues that are fueling achievement pressure. Richard Weissbourd is a Senior Lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Kennedy School of Government. His work focuses on moral development, the nature of hope, vulnerability and resilience in childhood, parenting and effective schools and services for chi...2024-01-1731 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 94 [Revisited] - How to Create a Safe, Loving, Nurturing, and Responsive Environment from Toddler To Teen with Dr. Jeanne DonaldsonIn this episode, we are thrilled to welcome back Dr. Jeanne Donaldson to speak with her on the topic of behavior basics and creating a foundation of a warm, loving, safe, nurturing environment in our homes. We take on a variety of topics including establishing the foundations of sleep, nutrition, movement, safety, parental attention, and building and supporting independence through choice making. With all of the information out online and on social media, we wanted to take a moment to do an episode where we sift through it all and look at the evidence based basics. We hope you...2024-01-111h 07Parenting UnderstoodEp. 33 [Revisited] - Finding your “Unicorn Space” with Eve RodskyAs we head into the holiday season, we are re-airing our interview with Eve Rodsky, a mom of 3, an attorney, an activist, and NY Times Best Seller Author of “Fair Play” and “Find Your Unicorn Space.” In this episode, we discuss what “Unicorn Space” is, and what we can do to help discover this space. We also discuss the mental load of motherhood, an especially pertinent topic during these times. You can learn more about Eve Rodsky and purchase “Find Your Unicorn Space” at her website: https://www.everodsky.com/ and by following her on Instagram...2024-01-0331 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 105 [Revisited] - Gender, Emotion and Perfectionism: A conversation with Lisa DamourIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Damour about the emotional lives of teenagers. We pay especial attention to the pressures that both genders feel yet how those may be manifested differently across genders, at times. Dr. Damour unpacks parent-child relationships, especially the mother-daughter relationship, and the role of identification in that relationship as girls mature. We also discuss how research methods may not always allow for the identification of areas of concern for boys. Dr. Lisa Damour is the author of three New York Times best sellers: Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers. S...2023-12-2729 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 114. - How to be heard by your young childIn this brief episode, Michelle and I discuss techniques to support young children in their listening. This is our last episode of the year as we take a month break. During our break, we will be re-airing episodes on selective eating, the emotional lives of children and developing emotional self-awareness. Wishing you and your families a joyous holiday season and New Year!2023-12-2016 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 113 - Supporting Your Child as Social & Academic Challenges EmergeIn this episode, we discuss with Chloe Massey, Cooper Education Team Parenting Expert and Doctoral Candidate- parenting, teaching, and learning challenges. We dig into some of the behavioral, social, and academic challenges that might surface around this time of year among school aged children. Chloe brings her knowledge and experience as a former classroom teacher, as well as a parent navigating all of this herself. We talk through strategies on how to communicate best with your child's teacher, how to handle the hard conversations - especially when you disagree with your child's teacher, how to provide support at home...2023-12-1327 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 112 - Raising Good Humans with Dr. Aliza PressmanIn this episode we speak with Dr. Aliza Pressman about her new book, The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans. Aliza outlines what those five science backed principles are, and what they look like in parenting. We further discuss how these principles apply across a broad range of children’s ages, and the various roles that temperament and family values play in their application. To learn more about Aliza visit her website and to pre-order her book visit Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, Books-A-Million, Apple or SImon & Schuster. When you pre-order, submit your receipt to pr...2023-12-0632 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 33 [Revisited] - Finding your “Unicorn Space” with Eve RodskyAs we head into the holiday season, we are re-airing our interview with Eve Rodsky, a mom of 3, an attorney, an activist, and NY Times Best Seller Author of “Fair Play” and “Find Your Unicorn Space.” In this episode, we discuss what “Unicorn Space” is, and what we can do to help discover this space. We also discuss the mental load of motherhood, an especially pertinent topic during these times. You can learn more about Eve Rodsky and purchase “Find Your Unicorn Space” at her website: https://www.everodsky.com/ and by following her on Instagram...2023-11-2931 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 111 - Childhood anxiety: the whats, whys and howsIn this episode, we have a slightly different format, as we bring my class to the podcast. Michelle guest lectures on anxiety in childhood. She outlines what childhood anxiety is, how it manifests, and ways to support children experiencing anxiety. Michelle weaves in examples from her practice to illustrate concepts. We discuss anxiety in the home and school contexts. To learn more about Michelle and her practice visit: https://michelletangeman.com/ 2023-11-2239 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 110 - How is a toy made: A conversation with the product development team at Fisher PriceIn this episode, we are thrilled to be joined by members of the Fisher Price development team. We discuss the research and development that goes into the making of a toy. As we learn, it takes a lot to get a toy to completion! We also talk about the many ways to engage children with toys, and how we can build emotional connections to toys. To learn more about Fisher Price and their play lab visit: Fisher Price 2023-11-1532 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 109 - When recess is used as punishment: A follow upIn this episode, we follow up from episode 106 where we discussed a situation in which recess was taken away from a kindergarten class in response to the behavior of a few children. We speak about the importance of caregiver-school communication to ensure appropriate supports for our children in school. We also discuss what may be potential barriers to effective home-school partnerships. The Article We Refence In This Episode: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/131/1/183/30893/The-Crucial-Role-of-Recess-in-School?autologincheck=redirected https://www.edutopia.org/video/why-recess-should-never-be-withheld-punishment/ 2023-11-0822 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 108 - Re-writing Our Narratives: The Role of Therapy in Breaking Cycles of Trauma In this episode, we speak with Duygu Balan about intergenerational trauma, and ways to break the cycle. Duygu discusses how the therapeutic relationship can support one in rewriting one’s narrative in a healthy manner. We also speak about how to develop a healthier relationship with oneself, and the importance of self-curiosity. We finish our conversation with a discussion of how parenting has impacted our professional lives and vice versa. For more information on Duygu, please visit her website and follow her on Instagram: @duygubalan 2023-11-0117 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 107 - Windows and Mirrors: Supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in PlayIn this episode, we discuss with Dr Heather Woodley, the roles of play and toys in teaching children about diversity, equity and inclusion. Heather outlines how toys and children’s programming can act as both windows and mirrors for children - windows into others’ experiences and reflections of their own. We discuss the importance of providing children with materials that are both windows and mirrors, and how to do this. Dr. Heather Homonoff Woodley, PhD is a Clinical Associate Professor of TESOL, Bilingual Education and World Language Education and the Director of Childhood Education in the Department of Te...2023-10-2523 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 106 - When recess time is used as punishmentIn this episode, we discuss a situation in which kindergarten children were denied recess time as a consequence of a few children. We talk about what taking away recess time can mean for young children, as well as the implications of relying on children’s reports of incidents that occur at school. We also discuss the potential implications of imposing a “punishment” on an entire class based on the behavior of a few students.2023-10-1824 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 105 - Gender, Emotion and Perfectionism: A conversation with Lisa DamourIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Damour about the emotional lives of teenagers. We pay especial attention to the pressures that both genders feel yet how those may be manifested differently across genders, at times. Dr. Damour unpacks parent-child relationships, especially the mother-daughter relationship, and the role of identification in that relationship as girls mature. We also discuss how research methods may not always allow for the identification of areas of concern for boys. Dr. Lisa Damour is the author of three New York Times best sellers: Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers. S...2023-10-1129 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 20 [Revisited] - Making Parental Decisions through Data with Professor Emily OsterWe are thrilled to be re-airing our episode with Emily Oster on making parenting decisions through data. Emily is a Professor of Economics at Brown University and the author of Expecting Better, Cribsheet, and The Family Firm. She holds a PhD in Economics from Harvard. Prior to being at Brown she was on the faculty at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Emily’s books analyze the data behind choices on parenting and pregnancy. She is also founder and CEO of Parent Data, which provides information for parents, people who want to be parents, or anyone who li...2023-10-0427 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 104 - Why are we so scared? How parenting is changingIn this episode, we speak with Mariel Benjamin, LCSW, about how parenting is currently based in a feeling of fear - fear of messing up one’s children, fear of being judged by others, and fear of failing in helping children reach their full potential. As we speak about, this fear can be detrimental for many reasons. When in a state of fear, we make decisions based on limited information and lots of emotion. This fear-based parenting can have a number of negative consequences for ourselves and our children. We further discuss how to avoid fear-based parenting. Mar...2023-09-2729 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 103 - Empowering Families: A Guide to Supporting Your Queer Daughter's Journey with Alex and AlexIn this compelling episode, we sit down with the co-authors and partners, Alex Ritter and Alex Kenworthy, to delve into their groundbreaking book, "Your Baby Girl Likes Girls." This invaluable resource offers crucial insights and advice for parents and their queer daughters navigating the often challenging journey of coming out. We emphasize the vital need for an open, accepting environment for children to express their thoughts and feelings, whether they embrace their true selves at a young age or later in adulthood. Our discussion revolves around essential tips for parents, encouraging curiosity, patience, and understanding. We underscore the significance...2023-09-2035 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 102 - How can we develop emotional self-awareness: A discussion with Dr. Marc BrackettIn this episode, Dr. Marc Brackett, author of Permission to Feel, discusses the importance of emotional self-awareness, and explains that emotional self-awareness is the ability to identify and label our emotions. This skill is essential for understanding our own emotional states and making informed decisions. He explains that it can lead to improved mental health, stronger relationships, and better decision-making. Emotionally self-aware individuals are better able to manage their emotions, resolve conflict, and build trust with others. He further describes how the How We Feel app helps users develop emotional self-awareness. The app prompts users to label...2023-09-1339 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 101 - How to Prepare Children for School Lockdown DrillsIn this episode, we conclude our series on school readiness with a conversation with Claire Marie about school lockdown drills. Claire is a school safety and emergency management expert who works with schools to develop and implement safety plans. She emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed practices when teaching students about safety procedures, such as lockdown drills. Claire talks about the importance of providing students with opportunities to practice the procedure in a safe and controlled environment. She also provides recommendations for parents on how to prepare children for drills. Further, she discusses how to talk to children after they...2023-09-0625 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 53 [Revisited] - What Parents Can Do About Pediatric Anxiety with Dr. Rebecca Etkin As a new academic year commences, we have decided to rebroadcast a well-received episode centered on pediatric anxiety. Within this episode, our guest is Dr. Rebecca Etkin from the Anxiety & Mood Disorders Program at the Yale Child Study Center. Her expertise lies in both researching and treating anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. Throughout this installment, we delve into topics such as the signs that should raise parental concern regarding their child's anxiety, the rationale behind utilizing evidence-backed interventions, the evolution of anxiety treatment in the realm of pediatrics, and Dr. Etkin's notable contributions to the SPACE program.2023-08-3029 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 29 [Revisited] - Self-Regulation With Dr. Clancy BlairWe are thrilled to be re-releasing our episode with Dr. Clancy Blair as part of our four week back to school series before our reflection on the past 100 plus episodes in two weeks. Dr. Blair is a developmental psychologist and Professor at New York University, who studies self-regulation in young children. His primary interest concerns the development of cognitive abilities, referred to as executive functions, and the ways in which these aspects of cognition are important for school readiness and early school achievement. He is also interested in the development and evaluation of preschool and elementary school curricula designed...2023-08-2316 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 56 [Revisited] - How to Build Parent-Teacher Connections to Support Young Children with Dr. Ashleigh CollinsIn this episode, we are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Ashleigh Collins, Dean of Academic Programs at Relay Graduate School Education. Dr. Collins discusses how to form a positive relationship with your child's teacher where you act as partners in scaffolding your child. Research shows that a strong predictor of children's academic and social well-being, especially in earlier childhood, is related to the parent-teacher connection. Dr. Collins speaks to the special importance of keeping lines of communication open between parents and teachers, and provides ideas as to how to do this. Further, Dr. Collins speaks about the benefit...2023-08-1627 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 58 [Revisited] - How to Support Young Children at the Start of the School YearIn this last episode of our back to school series, we speak about starting a new school from the perspectives of parent and child. We draw on our own personal experiences, as well as research in this conversation. We pay special attention to the role of social capital in the transition to a new school year. We also speak on best practices for speaking with our children about how their day went and what they have learned beyond just asking “How was school today?”. 2023-08-0928 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 100 - Handling Your Own Trauma While Parenting with Dr. Robyn KoslwitzWelcome to the 100th episode of Parenting Understood! We are beyond excited and incredibly grateful for our amazing community of listeners who have supported us throughout this journey. For this special milestone, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Robyn Koslwitz, educational director of the Targeted Parenting Institute, about parenting post-trauma. This episode holds dear as we have recently experienced parenting post-trauma, and we are dedicated to supporting others in similar situations. We want to take a moment to thank you all for joining us on this incredible journey. Your continued support and engagement i...2023-08-0243 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 99 - Tech-Savvy Parenting: Nurturing Family Well-Being in the Digital Age with Michael Perry, creator of MapleIn this episode, we are thrilled to speak with Michael Perry, entrepreneur, devoted father of two young boys, and creator of a family organizational app called Maple. Michael speaks to us about his journey of building Maple, an app designed to help parents manage their busy lives more effectively. Michael opens up about the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship and parenthood and how fatherhood completely transformed his sense of purpose. We discuss the overwhelming nature of parenting, which stems from the increasing demands of modern life and the lack of organizational tools catered specifically to parents. Throughout the conversation, Michael...2023-07-2643 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 98 - How do Hormones (and potentially psychedelics) Impact Women's Mental Health: A Conversation with Dr. Sinmie BamgboseIn this week’s episode we speak with Dr. Bamgbose, a reproductive psychiatrist, about the impacts of hormones on women's mental health across the lifespan. Dr Bamgbose highlights the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and postpartum depression, and seeking professional help if they occur. She also discusses the benefits of medication and therapy for managing mood disorders, as well as the importance of lifestyle changes, such as exercise and sleep hygiene. In addition to discussing the impact of hormones on mental health, she addresses psychedelics and their potential be...2023-07-1936 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 97 - How to Support Children’s Development of Empathy: A Conversation with Dr. Dana Winters of the Fred Rogers InstituteIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Dana Winters of the Fred Rogers Institute about supporting children in the development of empathy. More specifically, she speaks about the "simple interaction" approach. This approach focuses on four key dimensions of interaction: connection, reciprocity, inclusion, and purpose. It can be used in any setting, from the home to the classroom. By focusing on these four key dimensions, adults can help children develop empathy and build positive relationships. Dr Winters speaks further about specific examples of how to use the simple interaction approach with children. We also discuss additional ways to teach...2023-07-1235 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 96 - Sensory Overload with Ali Star Locke and John Patrick NelsonToday we are thrilled to be joined by Ali Star Locke and John Patrick Nelson of the podcast Sensory Overload. Ali and John share their story regarding how they began their podcast, after having a child on the spectrum. We hope that you join us to learn more about Sensory Overload and some of the helpful resources for being a parent to a child on the spectrum. To visit our new website, please visit Parentingunderstood.com If you would like to learn more about the Time Timer, please visit Time Timer: https://bit...2023-07-0535 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 95 - What is quality sleep as an adult (it might be different than you think) with Dr. Yishan XuToday, we are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Yishan Xu as she discusses the various ways sleep changes throughout life and how to tackle sleep issues in adults with a focus on parents. Dr. Xu speaks to the potential pitfalls of relying on sleep medication, and the power of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) as a first-line treatment. We also speak with Dr. Xu about gender differences in sleep, from hormonal shifts in women to sleep disorders in men. Further, we take a look at some common sleep myths and take a look at...2023-06-2845 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 94 - How to Create a Safe, Loving, Nurturing, and Responsive Environment from Toddler To Teen with Dr. Jeanne DonaldsonIn this episode, we are thrilled to welcome back Dr. Jeanne Donaldson to speak with her on the topic of behavior basics and creating a foundation of a warm, loving, safe, nurturing environment in our homes. We take on a variety of topics including establishing the foundations of sleep, nutrition, movement, safety, parental attention, and building and supporting independence through choice making. With all of the information out online and on social media, we wanted to take a moment to do an episode where we sift through it all and look at the evidence based basics. We hope you...2023-06-211h 07Parenting UnderstoodEp. 93 - Understanding the Influence of Media on Motherhood: A Candid Conversation with Sara PetersonIn this episode of "Parenting Understood," we welcome Sara Petersen, who has been challenging the perception of motherhood influenced by media and social media. Sara shares her journey as a writer, inspired by her experiences as a mother and her evolving understanding of feminism. She explains how motherhood ignited her feminism and made her question the idealized version of motherhood portrayed in the media. The conversation delves into the complexities of maternal identity and the weight it carries compared to paternal identity. We highlight the feelings of intellectual starvation, claustrophobia, and the struggle to maintain a...2023-06-1428 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 92 - Unveiling Social Media Parenting Realities with Renee Reina of the Mom Room In this episode, we speak with Renee Reina, psychologist and host of the renowned podcast, The Mom Room. Renne delves into the fascinating world of parenting fears, drawing from her extensive social media and podcast presence. She provides insights, empathy, and practical advice around parenting, and discusses the importance of authenticity on social media. Renne emphasizes the importance of finding one’s true voice amidst digital noise and cultivating a genuine online presence. We end by highlighting the power of seeking multiple viewpoints and embracing diverse perspectives to foster a well-rounded understanding of oneself as a parent. ...2023-06-0743 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 91 - How to support children’s early love and understanding of mathIn this episode, we are joined by Drs Douglas Clements and Julie Sarama to discuss early math learning. Douglas H. Clements is Distinguished University Professor, Kennedy Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Learning, and Executive Director of the Marsico Institute for Early Learning at the University of Denver. Previously a kindergarten teacher for five years and a preschool teacher for one, he has conducted research and published widely in the areas of the learning and teaching of early mathematics and computer applications in mathematics education. His most recent interests are in creating, using, and evaluating a research-based curriculum and in...2023-05-3130 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 90 - How to Build a Balanced Plate: Successfully Tackling Selective Eating in Children with Success with Dr. Holly GoverIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Holly Gover, a board-certified behavior analyst with extensive experience working with children with developmental disabilities. Dr. Gover, currently a faculty member in pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins us to tackle a common concern for parents: picky eaters. Dr. Gover shares valuable insights on how to encourage children to try new foods in a relaxed and enjoyable manner, empowering them to feel in control of their eating choices. We also explore the warning signs that may indicate the presence of an eating disorder and discuss the pressures faced...2023-05-2447 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 89 - The Future of Psychedelics and Depression with Dr. Joshua SiegelIn this week's episode, we interview psychiatrist Dr. Joshua Siegel about his research on the impacts of psychedelics, such as ketamine, on depression. We delve into the growing interest in mental health and wellness and explore emerging treatment methods. Dr. Siegel shares how his research has influenced his parenting and sheds light on his perspective on his children's emotions. Tune in to gain insights into the fascinating connection between psychedelics, mental health, and parenting. To learn more about Dr. Siegel’s research, please visit: https://sites.wustl.edu/psychedelics/welcome-to-piper/ For...2023-05-1729 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 88 - The Power of Children’s Books with Melissa FinkelsteinIn this episode, we speak with Melissa Finkelstein, a lawyer, author, and mother of three. Melissa discusses her latest book, Bobby the Snake and the Broken TV, which is part of her book series, Big Feelings Friends. She shares how her own children inspired her to write these books and the importance of children's books as both a mirror and a window for our children's stories. By sharing her personal experiences, Melissa hopes to show how her books can provide a relatable and empathetic perspective for children dealing with big emotions. Tune in to this episode to learn more a...2023-05-1027 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 87 - How to support mental health post-COVID: A conversation with Jessica GoldIn today’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Jessica (“Jessi”) Gold. Dr Gold, MD, MS, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, specializing in college mental health, medical education, and physician wellness. In this episode, we discuss with Dr. Gold her work supporting the mental health needs of those on the college campus, as well as her efforts to de-stigmatize mental health and psychiatry. She further discusses how COVID exacerbated pre-existing stressors, as well as added new ones, for the population at large but especially for groups includ...2023-05-0334 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 86 - The Brilliance Within: Reframing African-American Children’s Literacy to Fix Broken Systems with Denice RossWe are thrilled to be joined in this episode by Dr. Denise Ross, faculty member at the University of Wisconsin and Chair of the UW System Institute for Urban Education. Dr. Ross is an advocate for literacy as a form of social justice. She describes how she applies verbal behavior (a language and literacy approach using principles of behavior) to reading and literacy, and discusses the systems and inequities that impact access to evidence-based practices. She further speaks to how the narrative of literacy for economically disadvantaged communities is often framed through a deficit lens. Dr.Ross also discusses...2023-04-2634 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 85 - How Understanding Developmental Milestones Can Relieve Caregiver Stress: A Conversation with Dr. Whitney Casares of Modern Mommy DocIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Whitney Casares to discuss developmental milestones and their impact on children's development. We explore how parents can be overwhelmed by the stress of trying to keep up with perceived expectations for their child's development. Dr. Casares emphasizes the importance of understanding each child as a unique individual, with their own strengths and challenges, and avoiding the temptation to compare them to others or follow a one-size-fits-all approach. We also delve into the different types of developmental milestones, including both physical and emotional. We conclude by discussing the benefits of building a...2023-04-1929 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 84 - Advanced Parenting: Balancing Parenthood and Child Health Challenges with Dr. Kelly FradinIn this episode, Dr. Kelly Fradin, author of the upcoming book "Advanced Parenting: Advice for helping kids through diagnoses, differences, and mental health challenges," shares her personal story of being sick with cancer as a child and how it inspired her to create a guide for parents raising children with advanced health conditions. Dr. Fradin discusses the challenges that parents face in balancing their own personal lives, partnerships, and the care of their other children while also caring for their child, who needs different supports. She also provides insights into the resources and research available to support parents in...2023-04-1222 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 83 - The Fifth Trimester with Lauren BrodyIn this episode, we are joined by Lauren Smith-Brody, founder of the Fifth Trimester movement and the author of The Fifth Trimester: The Working Mom's Guide to Style, Sanity, and Big Success After Baby. We discuss with Lauren how her work addresses the research and policy around early parenthood, as well as the practical. Lauren speaks about how her work dissects the systems that drive the inequities that make new motherhood, and especially new employed motherhood, so challenging, and her mission to recruit others to speak up about caregivers in their workplace and their needs. Lauren addresses the parallels...2023-04-0543 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 82 - The Pre-K Debate: Revisiting Long-Term Effects with Dr. Meghan McCormickIn this episode, we welcome back Dr. Meghan McCormick to dive deeper into the topic of pre-kindergarten (pre-k), and its long-term effects on children. Our discussion is centered on recent research showing contrasting results on the benefits of pre-k education for young children. We delve in depth into how the quality of pre-k programs, and children’s educational experiences subsequent to pre-k, may have a lasting impacts on development. Dr. McCormick shares insights from her extensive research on the subject, and delves into the various factors that contribute to the success of pre-k programs, as well as lat...2023-03-2928 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 81 - Evidence-based Parenting: Navigating Developmental Interventions with Dr. Gina GreenIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Gina Green to explore the significance of using scientifically supported interventions to help children with developmental delays. We delve into the issue of people embracing theories, treatments, and programs that have not been properly evaluated, some of which have been claimed to be effective in full cures of things such as autism. We also talk about how parents can navigate the overwhelming amount of parenting information online and focus on key things that are supported by science. Additionally, we provide insights on where parents can find trustworthy scientific-based information. 2023-03-2253 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 80 - The Power of Moderation: Setting Healthy Boundaries for Social Media Usage with Dr. Julia BrailovskaiaWe are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Julia Brailovskaia to discuss the benefits of moderating social media usage. We speak about strategies for setting boundaries with children and ourselves to achieve a healthy balance. We also discuss the risks of social media addiction that can arise when usage is not moderated. Julia Brailovskaia currently works at the Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum. As a member of the "Bochum Optimism and Mental Health (BOOM)" team she investigates risk and protective factors of mental health. Her main research focus is on the r...2023-03-1524 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 79 - How to Have More Fun In Parenting with Mike RuckerIn this episode we are joined by Mike Rucker, an organizational psychologist and author of "The Fun Habit: How the Disciplined Pursuit of Joy and Wonder Can Change Your Life," to discuss the importance of finding joy and wonder in parenting. Mike emphasizes the importance of emotional flexibility and shared control with children to create positive relationships and memories. He suggests that parents should focus on finding enjoyable activities with their children, rather than just scheduling activities out of duty. By doing so, parents can create lasting memories and positive experiences for both themselves and their children. Rucker also...2023-03-0835 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 78 - The financially savvy family: How to raise money-smart childrenToday we are thrilled to be joined by Maya Corbic, a CPA and financial professional with almost 20 years of experience. Maya discusses with us the importance of teaching children financial literacy and managing your own family finances. Maya speaks about her own background and how she realized the importance of financial education after making preventable financial mistakes. She talks about teaching her own children financial skills, and her development of workshops to support children in learning about money management through her organization the Danarii Financial Education Academy, and a family membership program-the Wealthy Kids Investment Club. We end the...2023-03-0127 min
You, The MotherTransitions with Toddlers with Dr. Erin O’ConnorThis week on the You, The Mother Podcast, Abbey welcomes Dr. Erin O’Connor! Dr. Erin is a Developmental Psychologist, Professor in Teaching and Learning and Program Leader for Early Childhood at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. She is the co-host of the parenting podcast, Parenting Understood with Michelle Tangeman, and Chief of Education at Cooper. Her research focuses on development within the context of social interactions. Dr. Erin walks us through toddler development, how we can better navigate transitions with toddlers, and talks about separation anxiety. Do you need some insight into your...2023-02-2732 minParenting UnderstoodEp. 77 - Planting Seeds of Resilience: Teaching Young Children Delayed ToleranceWe are thrilled to have Dr. Adithyan Rajaraman as our guest on the latest episode of our podcast. Dr. Rajaraman is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and the Director of Behavior Analysis Research at Vanderbilt Kennedy Center. In this episode, we delve into the world of Applied Behavior Analysis and trauma-informed care with a focus on general parenting practices. Dr. Rajaraman's shares valuable insights on fostering healthy connections with our children and promoting essential coping mechanisms. You can learn more about Dr. Rajaraman by visiting his website at https://vkc.vumc.org/people/rajaraman-adithyan and...2023-02-2247 min