Explore every episode of the podcast Kids First Co-Parenting with Dr. Royster

Dr. Royster discusses the concept of DARVO, an acronym for Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender, which describes a common pattern in high conflict co-parenting situations. The discussion explores how this pattern manifests in communication, the psychological implications, and strategies for recognizing and responding to it effectively.

Key takeaways:

• Understanding DARVO is crucial
• Recognizing patterns improves communication

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to DARVO
• 02:55 Understanding the DARVO Response
• 05:59 The Dynamics of Deny and Attack
• 08:53 Reverse Victim and Offender Explained
• 11:55 The Impact of DARVO on Communication
• 14:48 Recognizing and Responding to DARVO
• 18:08 Strategies for Effective Co-Parenting

Original research on DARVO is attributed to J. Freyd. Visit her webpage for extensive research, citations, and information on the topic: https://www.jjfreyd.com/darvo

In this episode, Dr. Royster talks with Dillan Koch, a Michigan-based mental health professional in private practice, about supporting teenagers and their families. They explore why teen behavior is often part of a larger family dynamic—and how that becomes especially important during divorce, family conflict, and major life transitions.Together, they discuss teen privacy in therapy, parental involvement, independence, and how to distinguish healthy challenges from genuine safety concerns. Dillan shares a family systems perspective on helping teens and parents build communication and resilience, with the goal of supporting families—not keeping clients in therapy indefinitely.

• Dillan’s work with teenagers and families in her Michigan private practice
• How parent-only intake sessions can help therapists understand family concerns
• Setting clear confidentiality boundaries and maintaining trust with teens
• Why a teenager’s struggles may reflect pressures across the whole family system
• How adolescence can bring change and stress for parents as well as teens
• The balance between emotional safety, appropriate challenges, and building resilience
• How overparenting can unintentionally make it harder for kids to develop independence
• Approaching phone use, school responsibilities, and alcohol through early, ongoing conversations
• Parentification and the risk of teens becoming a parent’s confidant during divorce
• Keeping children out of adult relationship conflicts and co-parenting disputes
• Responding to school or visitation resistance with curiosity rather than assumptions
• Supporting teens through separation, grief, and changing family relationships

01:17 — Dillan’s private practice and family systems approach

02:17 — Working with teens and their families

05:04 — Setting confidentiality expectations with parents

06:17 — Protecting trust when parents want information

08:40 — Why teens can’t be treated as the only source of family problems

10:48 — Teen development, family stress, and changing roles

14:53 — Are teens changing, or are parenting dynamics changing?

16:17 — Overparenting, helplessness, and resilience

17:13 — The balance between safety and friction

18:38 — Grades, assignments, and helping teens build responsibility

23:23 — Phones, alcohol, and setting boundaries before a crisis

27:45 — Divorce, parentification, and teens becoming confidants

31:43 — Why adult relationship conflict is hard for teens to understand

33:30 — Family roles, perfectionism, and the quieter child

36:32 — Validating teens’ experiences during divorce or separation

38:54 — Understanding teen autonomy and resistance

41:27 — When teens recognize unhealthy or unsafe family dynamics

43:36 — Staying grounded amid co-parenting conflict

45:20 — Communicating with a child’s future perspective in mind

48:04 — Grief through divorce, adolescence, and young adulthood

49:07 — Dillan’s podcast, Instagram, and community work

Connect with Dillan for therapeutic & coaching services here.

Follow Dillan on Instagram

Listen to The Check in with Dillan

I am a psychologist, but I am not your psychologist. This is education and support, not therapy or legal advice. For anything about your actual family, talk with your own provider.

The podcast episode explores the experience of high-achieving women in coercive control relationships, debunking the myth that only certain types of people experience abuse. It delves into the impact of status inconsistency, psychological manipulation, and financial control on these women, highlighting the challenges they face in seeking help and the implications for their professional lives and co-parenting dynamics.

Takeaways

• Myth of Abuse: Debunks the myth that only certain types of people experience abuse.
• Impact of Coercive Control: Explores the impact of status inconsistency, psychological manipulation, and financial control on high-achieving women.

Chapters

• 00:00 Debunking the Myth of Abuse
• 07:40 Impact of Status Inconsistency
• 16:01 Psychological Manipulation and Financial Control
• 21:02 Challenges in Seeking Help and Professional Implications
• 23:53 Co-Parenting Dynamics and Protective Factors

Kids First is the membership community for moms navigating high conflict and parallel parenting, led by a doctoral level clinician. Weekly Group Coaching, Monthly live workshops, a library of real strategy, and a group of women who understand what you are carrying without you having to explain it. Plus direct access to me. Join now.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• The Financial Feminist Podcast
• Beyond the Statistic (Formerly 1 in 3) Podcast
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (1-800-799-SAFE) or Text START to 88788

Disclosure

I am a psychologist, but I am not your psychologist, and I am definitely not your attorney. This is education, not therapy or legal advice.

Welcome back to Season2!!

Dr. Royster opens season two of Kids First Co-Parenting with a foundational lesson on coercive control, explaining why it’s often missed in the moment and why it matters so much during separation and co-parenting. She breaks down the patterns behind coercive control, how gaslighting causes people to doubt themselves, and the ways it can continue after divorce through parenting, finances, and access to kids. In this episode, Dr. Royster offers a clear, practical framework for recognizing coercive control in everyday life—especially for people who find themselves thinking, “Nothing that bad ever happened.” She also emphasizes that when a situation is unsafe or abusive, support and safety planning must come first.

• Coercive control is a pattern, not a single incident. It involves ongoing efforts to dominate someone and strip away their independence, confidence, and trust in their own reality.
• Why coercive control may not become clear until separation, divorce, or co-parenting begins.
• How gaslighting causes people to question their own memories, instincts, and perceptions.
• Financial control, including restricted access to money, constant scrutiny of spending, and using finances as punishment.
• Monitoring and surveillance through location tracking, phone checks, text-message scrutiny, and demands for explanations.
• Isolation and the gradual erosion of relationships with family, friends, and coworkers.
• Rewriting reality, shifting blame, and portraying the targeted person as unreasonable.
• Micro-rules and unpredictability that create the feeling of constantly walking on eggshells.
• Using children as messengers, spies, leverage, or an audience.
• How coercive control can continue after divorce through communication, schedules, expenses, and the children.
• Why naming coercive control is an important part of healing and protecting children.
• Where to seek help when coercive control overlaps with domestic violence or an unsafe situation.

Kids First is my membership community for moms navigating high conflict coparenting. Monthly workshops, real strategy, and a group of women who genuinely get it, because they're living it too. It's where you stop doing the hardest job of your life alone. Join us.

One thing before we get into it. I'm a psychologist, but I'm not your psychologist, and I'm definitely not your attorney. This show is education and support, not therapy or legal advice. So please take what's useful, and for anything about your actual case, talk to your own team.

AND If you are experiencing domestic violence or feel unsafe, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

or text START to 88788 (Support is free and confidential.)

Twenty-six episodes. Thousands of listeners. Moms sharing this podcast with their sisters, their friends, the woman down the street who just got served papers. Season 1 of this podcast has been one of the most meaningful things I have built and I built it for YOU. For the mom who is exhausted and scared and doing this mostly alone. For the mom who just needed someone to tell her she was not crazy.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for listening. Thank you for sharing it with the people who needed it.

We are taking a summer break and when we come back in the fall we are coming back with something more. New episodes, new topics, and a whole new level of co-parenting.

Kids First Membership is open year round. If you are navigating high conflict coparenting and need expert guidance, community, and support while the podcast is on break this is where you want to be. Join here: https://www.learnwithlittlehouse.com/kids-first-membership

Custody (PRE/CFI) Intensives (launching this summer, limited availability) available here: https://learnwithlittlehouse.myflodesk.com/skuza6g56a

Keywords: high conflict divorce, coparenting, custody evaluation, parallel parenting, divorce coach, coparenting coach, family law, high conflict coparenting, divorced mom, protect your kids, kids first, custody battle, PRE, CFI, season finale, podcast break.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by Dr. Karalynn Royster is not intended to be and should not be construed as mental health treatment, psychological services, or legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client or attorney-client relationship. If you are in need of mental health support or legal guidance, please consult a licensed mental health professional or qualified attorney in your area.

If you have a custody evaluation coming up or you've just been told one has been ordered this episode is a must listen.

Custody evaluations are one of the most high stakes (and stressful) moments in any family law case, and most moms walk in under-prepared and over stressed.

In this solo episode, licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Karalynn Royster, breaks down what happens inside a custody evaluation, what evaluators are trained to assess, and where moms can go wrong.

You'll learn:

• What a PRE and CFI actually do and why they are not your advocate
• Key things every evaluator is watching for in every parent they meet
• Why emotional regulation and child focused communication matter more than you think
• How your documentation, emails, and texts are being evaluated before you even walk in the room

Whether you are in the middle of a high conflict divorce, navigating co-parenting with a narcissistic ex, preparing for a custody evaluation, or working with families in the family court system, this episode will change how you think about preparation.

Ready to stop leaving your custody evaluation to chance?

This summer Dr. Royster is opening the Custody Eval Intensive a 90 day, high touch program for moms who are done walking into the most important evaluation of their custody case unprepared. Only 3 spots. Beta pricing available. Interest form closes June 15th.

👉 JOIN THE WAITLIST: https://learnwithlittlehouse.myflodesk.com/skuza6g56a

Not facing an evaluation but need ongoing support?

The Kids First Membership is a monthly coaching community for moms navigating high conflict coparenting led by a licensed clinical psychologist who has spent her career doing exactly this work. For $97/month you get expert guidance, live workshops, and a community of women who actually get it.

👉 JOIN KIDS FIRST MEMBERSHIP: https://www.learnwithlittlehouse.com/kids-first-membership

Keywords: custody evaluation, parenting responsibility evaluator, child and family investigator, PRE, CFI, high conflict divorce, co-parenting, narcissistic ex, family court, custody battle, child custody, divorce attorney, GAL, guardian ad litem, co-parenting coach, custody preparation, family law, emotional regulation, high conflict coparenting

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by Dr. Karalynn Royster is not intended to be and should not be construed as mental health treatment, psychological services, or legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client or attorney-client relationship. If you are in need of mental health support or legal guidance, please consult a licensed mental health professional or qualified attorney in your area.

Money is one of the most powerful tools used in high conflict divorce and coparenting dynamics. For many women: the narrative that they are "bad with money" is not a personal failure: it is a story they have been told to keep them feeling small or stuck. In this episode: I am joined by Leah Hadley (a financial expert OG). We are dismantling the shame around finances and giving you the clinical and practical tools to reclaim your financial sovereignty. We dive deep into:

• Financial Mindset tools, including values & clarity around what you really want.
• The importance of sisterhood and support as you build intentional wealth.
• How to pick a good financial planning pro and what to watch out for.

About Leah Hadley: Leah Hadley is a financial planner, Accredited Financial Counselor, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and the founder of Intentional Wealth Partners and Intentional Divorce Solutions. She is the author of Intentional Money: The Modern Woman's Guide to Building Wealth, Purpose and Peace, and the creator of The Empowered Sisterhood, a community built to help women achieve lasting financial confidence. Leah's work is rooted in the belief that when women are financially empowered, everything changes.

Leah's Links:

• Substack article on fees in financial planning.
• Watch her Thrive and Intentional Divorce Solutions on Instagram
• Leah Hadley on LinkedIn
• Intentional Money: Modern Women's Guide to Wealth, Purpose & Peace

Dr. Royster's Links:

• Join the Kids First Membership for only $97/month
• Follow us on Instagram

The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional mental health: clinical: or legal advice.

• No Professional Relationship: Accessing this content does not create a therapist: patient or attorney: client relationship.
• Seek Professional Help: If you are in a crisis or require specific advice for your unique situation: please reach out to a licensed mental health provider or a qualified legal professional in your area immediately.
• Safety First: Your safety and well being are the highest priority. If you are in immediate danger: please contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline.

In this insightful interview, child psychologist & co-parenting coach, Dr. Karalynn Royster, and Licensed Clinical Social worker, Alexandra Harrison LCSW, explore the complexities of stepfamily dynamics, blending families, and effective coaching strategies.

Discover practical tips, research-backed insights, and compassionate approaches to navigate the challenges of blended families and co-parenting.

Keywords: stepfamilies, blending families, co-parenting, step-parent coaching, family dynamics, divorce, remarriage, parenting strategies, high conflict families, family therapy

Key Topics:

• The timeline of blending families and the typical 2-7 year process
• Loyalty binds and how they affect children and parents
• The importance of balancing warmth and boundaries in stepfamily relationships
• The role of coaching versus therapy in supporting stepfamilies
• Managing relationships with high conflict ex-partners

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Professional Background

04:25 Navigating Step Family Dynamics

07:13 The Challenges of Repartnering

09:50 Understanding Step-Parenting

12:30 The Impact of Neurodiversity on Family Dynamics

15:13 Step-Parent Coaching: A New Approach

18:21 Core Challenges in Step Families

20:59 Loyalty Binds and Parenting Dynamics

23:56 Creating a Unified Parenting Approach

26:32 Values-Based Parenting in Step Families

30:11 Navigating Stepfamily Dynamics

32:59 The Balancing Act of Parenting and Partnership

37:13 Building Secure Connections in Stepfamilies

40:56 The Complexity of Ex-Spouse Relationships

43:27 Managing Co-Parenting Challenges

50:01 Finding Support and Resources for Stepfamilies

57:12 Introduction to Kids First Co-Parenting

57:40 Support and Resources for Co-Parents

57:54 Disclaimer

Resources

Step Family Reset Website: https://stepfamilyreset.com

Alex Harrison's YouTube Channel

In this episode, Dr. Karalynn Royster and divorce coach Andra Davidson explore the emotional landscape of divorce, effective co-parenting strategies, and how to turn challenging experiences into opportunities for growth. Whether you're in the thick of divorce or just contemplating it, this conversation offers practical advice and reassurance.Key Topics:

• The importance of emotional support during divorce and how it impacts conflict and costs
• Strategies for approaching co-parenting with intention, boundaries, and a focus on the long-term well-being of children
• The role of divorce coaching in managing day-to-day stress, communication, and complex family dynamics
• How to define success and set goals for life post-divorce, including envisioning a fulfilling future
• The benefits of seeking early guidance before filing for divorce and how support teams collaborate
• Differences between therapy, legal work, and coaching—knowing when and how to engage each professional
• Managing high-conflict situations and deciding when parallel parenting might be the best approach
• The importance of self-care, boundaries, and trusting your instincts in the divorce process
• Practical tips for organizational tools, communication strategies, and fostering resilience in children
• Resources for ongoing support, including coaching, therapy, and community memberships

Resources & Links:

• Better Than Before Divorce: Andra Davidson's coaching services
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership: Support community for co-parenting moms
• Learn with Little House on Instagram: Community connection
  

Additional Notes:This episode emphasizes that divorce, while difficult, is an opportunity to rebuild and grow. Support from coaches, therapists, and a community can help you navigate the emotional and practical challenges, ensuring you and your children thrive beyond the separation.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. This content does not constitute legal or mental health advice and does not establish a therapist patient relationship. Please consult with your own qualified legal or mental health professionals regarding your specific circumstances.

Dr. Karalynn Royster delves into the impact of gaslighting and manipulation on children in high-conflict co-parenting situations. The podcast introduces the Anchor Method as a framework for supporting children and reinforcing their self-trust in challenging family dynamics.

Takeaways

• Gaslighting and manipulation impact children's sense of reality
• The Anchor Method provides a framework for supporting children in high-conflict co-parenting situations
• Mistakes and areas where the anchor method goes wrong
• Gaslighting and manipulation in co-parenting
• The Anchor method for supporting children
• Validation techniques for kids in high conflict
• Strategies to build self-trust in children (the ANCHOR METHOD)
• Handling parental conflict and maintaining boundaries

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Gaslighting in Parenting

00:50 I was gaslit....

02:42 The ANCHOR Method

04:15 What actually is gaslighting?

06:43 Strategies for Addressing Manipulation

07:38 Validation is important

08:58 The ANCHOR Method

09:38 A-Ask

12:01 N-Name

14:54 Kids First Membership

15:31 C-Confirm

20:14 H-Holding

21:37 O-offer

23:27 R-Reinforce Self-Trust

25:21 Common Mistakes in Implementing the Anchor Method

31:27 Introduction and Disclaimer

Download the free ANCHOR Method guide to learn the five steps that help protect your child from gaslighting without putting them in the middle.

If you want deeper support, join the Kids First Membership for tools, coaching, and practical strategies to navigate high conflict co-parenting.

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health treatment, legal advice, or professional services. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist client relationship. If you need individualized support, please consult a qualified mental health or legal professional.

Send a text

When the floor drops out after a separation, most parents don’t need platitudes; they need a lifeline. We sit down with Joy Reed from the National Association for Single and Divorced Families to unpack a practical, AARP‑style model built for families: national mediation you can trust, real childcare discounts with priority placement, mental health sessions that actually start the healing, and vetted financial advisors who understand the math of divorce. If you’ve ever stared at a co‑parenting app with a knot in your gut, this conversation hands you scripts, guardrails, and a way forward.

We dig into the two‑generation model and why supporting parents and children together is the key to breaking cycles of stress and poverty. Joy shares examples of workforce training linked to daycare slots and employer hiring, turning education into paychecks instead of paperwork. We also talk frankly about the motherhood penalty, resume gaps, and the impossible calculus of paying lawyers, covering rent, and affording daycare at the same time. Layer in school supply and tech savings, plus safety tools like Noonlight, and you’ve got a toolkit that meets families where life is really happening.

Emotions run alongside logistics. Even amicable divorces carry grief and identity shock, and high‑conflict situations can steal your peace one message at a time. We normalize therapy for adults and kids, break down how to access free and discounted sessions, and offer language for setting clear boundaries that keep children out of the middle. Joy’s north star is simple and fierce: people before profit. Every partner is vetted for mission fit so vulnerable families aren’t sold false hope.

If you’re navigating separation, rebuilding solo, or supporting a friend, press play for resources you can use today and perspective that lightens the load. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more parents find solid ground.

Check out the National Association of Single and Divorced Families

BestInterest Co-Parenting App
Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general education and not legal or mental health advice in any way.

Send a text

We face the quiet fear many moms hold: will my child turn out like my ex. We explain why mimicry isn’t destiny, how processing experience shapes character, and how one steady adult can outweigh chaotic modeling, even in high-conflict homes.

• naming the hidden fear without shame
• modeling versus processing and why it matters
• the role of one steady, safe caregiver
• influence versus control in co-parenting
• tech boundaries that reduce triangulation
• mimicry, phases, and testing limits across ages
• development facts about narcissism and identity
• red flags that signal a child needs more support
• practical scripts, repair, and home culture

Podcast listeners can use the code POD10 for $10 off the Co-Parent Tech kit. Use code POD10. Leave us a review, share with a mama who needs to hear this

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

We look at why “just ignore it” fails kids in high-conflict homes and show how brief, blame-free validation protects their trust and nervous system. We share practical scripts to name the hard thing, contain it, and co-regulate without fueling new fights.

• why silence teaches kids to doubt themselves
• difference between ignoring a co-parent and ignoring a child
• when non-engagement makes sense strategically
• the name it, contain it, regulate framework
• age-appropriate validation and simple scripts
• avoiding overexplaining while offering reassurance
• co-regulation tools for car rides and transitions
• applying the same approach to wider community stress

Join the Kids First Co-Parenting membership for kid-focused lessons, practical tools, and live group coaching. Learn more at the link in the show notes
Join the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for $19. The link is in the show notes below

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

We walk through how to decide if your attorney is the right fit by focusing on your next 60 to 90 days, your case’s unique needs, and the communication systems that keep you steady. We compare junior and senior counsel, map specialties to real problems, and share steps to repair or replace without chaos.

• reframing “best attorney” as best for your needs
• defining immediate goals like enforcement or modification
• weighing junior associate responsiveness against partner experience
• matching attorney specialty to case complexity and risk
• assessing responsiveness, urgency protocols, and evidence workflows
• spotting realistic strategy versus empty promises
• steps to repair the relationship before switching counsel
• using community, templates, and checklists to interview well

Please share widely and leave us a review if you do find it useful
The best way you can support the show is by following, rating, and reviewing wherever you listen to podcasts and by sharing it with another mom who could use the support
You can also connect with me on Instagram and Facebook at LearnwithLittle House, where I share daily tips and encouragement for moms raising kids through high conflict divorce
If you’re ready to go deep and get more tools, scripts, personalized support, and coaching, come join us inside the Kids First co-parenting community

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

We explore how to face holiday grief and ambivalence when the kids are with a co-parent and the house feels too quiet. We share a clear plan to cope ahead, micro-skills for spirals, and when to bring in extra support while modeling regulation for our kids.

• naming grief and ambivalence during holidays
• separating feelings from behaviors
• building a coping ahead plan that fits you
• body, mind and connection actions for hard days
• grounding with feet and breath work
• quick resets with water, sky and fresh air
• recognizing red flags that signal added support
• modeling self-regulation language for kids

The membership is half off for listeners right now. You can find the membership at the link in the show notes

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

We explore how to support kids through holiday ambivalence without putting them in the middle, and why naming, validating, and coping rituals reduce stress for both kids and parents. We reframe “bad behavior” as stress signals, unpack loyalty pulls, and share simple connection rituals that steady transitions.

• normalizing mixed feelings during holiday co‑parenting 
• naming and validating emotions to build attachment 
• explaining and easing loyalty pulls between parents 
• reading behaviors as stress signals, not defiance 
• using curiosity and lowering demands to de‑escalate 
• creating simple, predictable connection rituals 
• recognizing parallel process in your own emotions 
• avoiding invalidating phrases and scorekeeping 
• steady support through routine shifts and transitions

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

We explore how a therapist-led, process-oriented divorce recovery group helps women move through grief, confront shame, and build real co-parenting skills when conflict runs high. Join us for the bonus conversation with Dr. Kristen Hick (Center for Shared Insight).  Along the way we name false summits, choose the right hills to die on, and find a steadier path forward.

What's in this episode:

• What a process-oriented group offers beyond support
• Weekly flow, safety, and facilitated interaction
• Grief as a normal, nonlinear part of divorce
• Shame vs guilt and why shame is stickier
• Community as an antidote to isolation
• Group and individual therapy working together
• Control traps with new partners, bedtimes, and rules
• Choosing enforceable hills and protecting peace
• Venting with boundaries and narrative work
• The long arc of recovery and holding hope

Join us today. We’ve made the Kids First Co-Parenting System a membership so it’s more accessible and affordable for moms just like you. Come in and get your first month and all the lessons again. You’ll find the details here. 

Find Dr. Kristen Hick at the Center for Shared Insight, and learn more about the Divorce Recovery Group. 
Follow the Center for

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

BestInterest Co-Parenting App
Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Social Links:

• Facebook
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Holiday tables can be tender ground when you’re parenting from two homes. We dig into practical, child-first strategies to keep Thanksgiving calm and drama-free, and be connected to the people that although they are being nosey...probably care a lot too. From boundary-setting texts you can send before you arrive to on-the-spot scripts that shut down gossip, comparisons, and invasive questions, this conversation gives you the exact words and plans you need.

We start by reframing the season around regulation and safety, then map out how to brief relatives, protect kids from loyalty binds, and redirect when someone slips. You’ll hear short, repeatable lines to keep adult topics off the menu, ways to validate a loved one’s concern without unpacking the divorce at the table, and gentle non-answers you can use when asked about dating, custody, or who “got the house.” We also cover how to introduce a new partner thoughtfully and how to intervene when family tries to extract details from your child or compare “mom’s house vs dad’s house.”

As the day unfolds, structure matters. You’ll learn when to shorten visits, arrive just for dinner, or create new, simpler traditions that meet your bandwidth. We share quick, neutral responses for kids’ questions about split holidays and guidance on saving deeper conversations for a calmer moment. If you’re attending solo this year, these same scripts protect your peace and model healthy boundaries. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s steady, grounded presence and a holiday your child remembers for comfort, not conflict.

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

BestInterest Co-Parenting App
Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

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The kids stay home, the parents rotate—simple to say, hard to do well. We unpack nesting with straight talk on what it is, when it helps, and how to make it work without sliding back into the same conflicts that made separation necessary. From early-stage divorce logistics to keeping bedtime steady for a neurodivergent child, we share a practical blueprint anchored in safety, trust, and child-centered routines.

We start with the basics: a clear definition of nesting, common scenarios where it shines—high cost of living, a traveling parent, or a need to preserve medical equipment and school routines—and the invisible load it creates. You’ll hear why privacy protocols, written house rules, and transparent money systems prevent “gotcha” moments that reignite resentment. We also get candid about non-negotiables: if there’s coercive control, abuse, or constant boundary-breaking, nesting is the wrong tool. Parallel parenting from separate homes with structured communication will serve your child better.

Then we move into execution. Set the schedule first and keep exchanges brief and businesslike, like passing a relay baton. Align on routines using the “siblings, not twins” principle so life feels familiar even as parents change places. Lock down a plan for chores, groceries, mail, guests, and tech boundaries. Track expenses and reconcile on a cadence so costs don’t become character judgments. Most importantly, assign an endpoint—30 to 60 days—and review objective markers: on-time handoffs, fewer meltdowns, and lower parent conflict. If it’s working, extend with intention; if it’s not, pivot promptly.

If messages from your ex make your stomach drop, grab our High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms for $19 to get scripts and strategies you can use today. And if you want ongoing coaching, tools, and community, join the Kids First membership—use code ProtectKids at learnwithlittlehouse.com. Subscribe, share with a mom who needs this, and leave a quick review to help more families find solid ground.

BestInterest Co-Parenting App
Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

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A single notification shouldn’t hijack your nervous system. When co-parenting gets high-conflict, though, even a short text can set off a cascade of stress that steals focus from your kids. We sat down with founder Sol Kennedy to unpack Best Interest, the first AI‑moderated messaging app for co-parents, built from his own divorce and supported by Dr. Ramani’s expertise. Think of it as a calm, intelligent “shield” that filters inflammatory language into clear, actionable requests while preserving originals for records and reflection.

We explore how the app learns your context, aligns replies with your parenting plan, and compresses message floods into a single daily notification. Emergencies still break through, so you stay responsive without living on edge. For anyone using Our Family Wizard or Talking Parents, you can import conversations via screenshot and get immediate coaching. And when legal documentation matters, Best Interest exports unaltered messages with timestamps so judges see what was actually said—alongside your steady, concise responses.

Beyond the tech, this conversation dives into mindset: moving from reactivity and “evidence mode” toward agency, boundaries, and regulation. Courts are slow, costly, and often fuel a winner‑loser frame that fails kids. Reducing conflict at the source—messaging—creates space to parent with clarity, model calm, and protect your peace. We also share a practical tool for another flashpoint: screens across two homes. The Co-Parent Tech Agreement Kit gives you a decision framework, scripts, and a shared log to end the tug‑of‑war without power struggles.

If you’ve wondered whether one parent can make things better, the answer is yes. You don’t need your ex’s consent to start using Best Interest, try the free AI coach, or set limits that honor your bandwidth and your child’s needs. Follow, rate, and share the show with a mom who needs relief today—and tell us what boundary would bring you the most peace right now.

Best Interest App:

BestInterest Co-Parenting App
Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

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The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

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Court-ordered FaceTime, late-night pings, and surprise speakerphone moments can turn tech into a battleground—unless you have a plan built for high-conflict co-parenting. We break down a practical five-decision framework that transforms chaos into clarity: precise call windows, allowed platforms, device-free anchors, clear privacy norms, and a calm problems protocol for when things go sideways. You’ll hear why judges dislike being dragged into phone debates, what the research says about delaying smartphones and social media, and how small wording changes in your parenting plan stop late calls from steamrolling bedtime.

We keep it real with scripts for missed-call boundaries, tips for choosing simple, low-drama platforms, and ways to protect your child’s nervous system with shared anchors like phone-free meals and device-free bedrooms. You’ll learn how to teach kids to assert privacy—no more hidden recordings or third-party coaching—and how to create a digital incident log that tracks issues neutrally, strengthens your case if needed, and keeps communication with your co-parent steady and brief. The goal is simple: a calmer home, a steadier routine, and a child who feels safe and seen across both houses.

If you’re ready for tools that work when personalities clash, this conversation gives you the structure to reduce conflict and keep your kid at the center. Check out our Co-Parenting Tech Agreement kit for scripts, worksheets, and a fillable incident log, and don’t miss our High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms for fast, usable strategies. If this helped, follow the show, leave a review, and share it with a mom who needs steadier evenings and better sleep. Your support helps more families find calm.

Snag your seat in the Co-Parent Tech Agreement Workshop, use podcast bonus code POD10 for $$ off.

Check out Jonathan Haidt's book, the Anxious Generation

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

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The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

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Ever watched your child’s face twist with confusion? Up at night worrying about gaslighting and how to protect your child from the exact dynamics you experienced?

 We’re tackling the quiet damage of gaslighting in high-conflict co-parenting and sharing the exact words you can use to steady your kid without badmouthing your ex or dragging them into the middle.

We start with validation on steroids. You’ll learn simple, easy to remember phrases that meet your child where they are, “I can see why that feels confusing,” “I’m glad you told me” and grounding strategies. 

Then you'll learn how to build the muscle that manipulation tries to weaken: a child’s trust in their own perception. Through open-ended prompts and gentle reality-checks, we show how to help kids hold two stories without losing their center, and why this skill protects them in friendships, school, and future relationships.

From there, we set clean boundaries that keep kids out of adult logistics and blame. You’ll hear how to avoid using your child as a messenger, when to share brief factual context about safety or court decisions, and how to correct misinformation without turning your kitchen into a courtroom.

For moms who want more, we point to our High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms concise, self-paced training with scripts, strategies, and a printable workbook so you always know what to say and how to say it. If this helped, tap follow, leave a quick review, and share it with a mom who could use a steadier week. 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

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• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

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What happens when the already intense world of competitive youth sports collides with the complexities of co-parenting after divorce? Dr. Alec Baker, a psychologist specializing in both sports psychology and family dynamics, joins Dr. Royster to explore this challenging intersection where parental dreams, financial pressures, and children's wellbeing often compete for priority.

Drawing from his background as a former competitive athlete whose career was cut short by injuries, Dr. Baker offers a compassionate perspective on why youth sports environments can become pressure cookers for family stress. His doctoral research revealed a concerning connection – as the percentage of family income devoted to youth sports increases, marital satisfaction (particularly for women) tends to decrease. When divorce enters the picture, these financial and scheduling strains often intensify, creating new battlegrounds for already conflicted co-parents.

The conversation challenges several pervasive myths about youth athletic development. Contrary to the fear-driven narrative that children must specialize early or "miss their chance," Dr. Baker explains why multi-sport participation and physical literacy development until ages 12-14 creates stronger, more resilient athletes. This evidence-based approach not only benefits children's athletic trajectory but can significantly reduce family stress

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

BestInterest Co-Parenting App: Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

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• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

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Ever wondered if your child is being gaslit by their other parent? Manipulated into questioning their own reality? You're not alone, and you're not being paranoid.

Gaslighting - that subtle psychological manipulation where someone makes you question your own perceptions and memories - can be devastating for children caught in high-conflict co-parenting situations. When a child starts doubting what they saw, heard, or felt, it undermines their entire sense of security and trust.

In this deep dive, I explain exactly what gaslighting looks like when children are involved. From denying promises ("I never said I'd take you for ice cream") to rewriting family history or undermining your rules, these manipulative tactics create confusion and anxiety for kids. The damage runs deep because it erodes their internal compass - that essential ability to trust their own experiences and feelings.

But not every disagreement or difficult moment with your ex qualifies as gaslighting. I'll help you distinguish between genuine differences in parenting approaches and true manipulation, because labeling everything as "gaslighting" only dilutes its meaning and can make it harder to address the real problem.

This episode lays the foundation for understanding this complex issue, while a future episode will focus specifically on how to protect your child from gaslighting. Because w

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

BestInterest Co-Parenting App: Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
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• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

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Overwhelmed by the advice to "document everything" in your high-conflict co-parenting situation? You're not alone. In this practical episode, Dr. Karalynn Royster tackles the documentation dilemma head-on, offering clear strategies to transform that mountain of screenshots into a manageable, effective system.

Documentation serves three crucial purposes: creating an objective record of events for legal proceedings, helping you maintain emotional clarity, and most importantly, protecting your children from confusion and conflict. But without a proper system, documentation quickly becomes an overwhelming second job that many parents eventually abandon.

Dr. Royster walks through exactly what's worth documenting (and what isn't), sharing a simple question to ask yourself: "Would this matter to a mediator, judge, lawyer, or therapist?" While safety concerns and medical issues always warrant documentation, not everything deserves equal attention. By focusing your efforts strategically, you can build a documentation practice that's sustainable and effective.

The episode offers practical guidance on creating a system that works for your unique brain - whether that's using co-parenting apps, Google Drive folders, organized photo albums, physical binders, or journals. You'll learn the importance of documenting facts rather than feelings, and how proper organization can help

BestInterest Co-Parenting App: Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
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• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

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Show Notes: 

Dr. Karalynn Royster invites child psychologist Dr. Julianne Monday to explore the connection between anxious moms and anxious kids, discussing how parental regulation impacts children's emotional development. They share practical strategies for breaking generational patterns and creating emotionally safe homes while addressing the pervasive issue of mom guilt.

Key Points:
• Dr. Monday's journey from early childhood teacher to child psychologist focused on anxious moms and sensitive kids
• How parents under stress revert to patterns they experienced in their own childhoods
• The difference between mom guilt and mom shame and strategies for releasing both
• Why perfect parenting isn't the goal – repair after mistakes builds crucial resilience in children
• Importance of regulating your own nervous system through breath work and body-based strategies
• How modeling calm for your children works through mirror neurons even when they're upset
• Overview of the Wire to Connect program for anxious moms of emotionally sensitive children

Connect with Dr. Monday at the links below:

Private Facebook Group

Get your Your Mom Guilt Freebie

BestInterest Co-Parenting App: Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22 

BestInterest Co-Parenting App
Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

Summary:

Dr. Karalynn Royster explores how to respond when your child returns from their co-parent's home repeating confusing or inaccurate information. This episode provides practical guidance on validating your child's experience while maintaining appropriate boundaries that protect them from adult conflicts.

Takeaways:

• Children asking difficult questions shows they trust you enough to bring challenging topics to you
• Your child is not trying to hurt you when repeating confusing information
• Focus on clarity rather than confrontation 
• Avoid phrases that create loyalty binds 
• Use the validation, boundaries, and redirection approach to respond effectively
• Document concerning patterns but address them separately from conversations with your child
• Remember that children need emotional safety more than they need complete information

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

Summary: Our neurobiological response to co-parenting stress often mirrors evolutionary survival mechanisms, triggering fight, flight, freeze, or fawn reactions when we receive messages from difficult ex-partners. Recognizing these pattern is the critical first step to interrupting automatic responses and choosing more intentional communication.

Key Takeaways:

• The "four Fs" (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) are natural trauma responses designed to protect us in threatening situations
• Different situations may trigger different response patterns based on your history
• You can't control your initial reaction, but you can learn to recognize it before responding
• Naming what's happening creates space between your reaction and your response
• Asking trusted friends about your typical response patterns can provide valuable insights

Resources: 

Check out our High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for just $19, where we go beyond naming these responses and provide practical tools for each pattern. 

If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here. 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

Episode Summary: 

We explore how to handle tough questions from your children about separation, divorce, or your past relationship in ways that are honest, developmentally appropriate, and emotionally supportive.

Key Points
• Understand what's driving your child's question before answering 
• Validate their question first with phrases 
• Gently assess why they might be asking 
• Keep responses child-focused
• Respond directly to the underlying concern (like fear of losing your love) 

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

Summary

Parallel parenting provides a structured approach for co-parenting with high-conflict exes by creating strong boundaries and limiting communication. This episode explores different co-parenting styles and helps you determine if parallel parenting might be the right approach for your situation.

Key Takeaways:
• Different co-parenting styles exist on a spectrum from nesting to collaborative co-parenting to parallel parenting
• Parallel parenting involves parenting on separate "train tracks" that never cross, with minimal communication
• Most co-parents start with collaborative intentions but may shift to parallel parenting when difficulties arise
• Parallel parenting works best with manipulative, toxic, or boundary-challenging ex-partners
• Strong boundaries are essential when dealing with difficult people, especially when children are involved
• Your house, your rules; their house, their rules—each parent maintains control during their parenting time
• The parenting plan becomes your guide for all interactions and decisions
• Parallel parenting can be temporary as you heal, or a long-term solution for high-conflict situations

If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and share it with another co-parenting mom. Check out our free guide on different co-parenting styles and our masterclass "How to Handle a Difficult Ex."

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

Summary
In this episode, Dr. Karalynn Royster discusses the complexities of co-parenting, particularly in high-conflict situations. She emphasizes the importance of establishing strong boundaries to protect both the parent and the child. The conversation covers three main types of boundaries: emotional, communication, and parenting boundaries, providing insights and strategies for mothers navigating difficult co-parenting dynamics.

Helpful Links:

Learn about the Kids First Co-Parenting System

How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free)

High Conflict Communication Bootcamp

Private Facebook Group

Follow us on Youtube & Instagram

Takeaways

• Boundaries are essential for protecting your emotional health.
• You cannot control your ex's actions, only your responses.
• Emotional boundaries help you cope with the reality of co-parenting.
• Clear communication is crucial in high-conflict situations.
• You must prioritize your child's well-being above all.
• Establishing parenting boundaries helps maintain your home environment.
• Regularly assess and reinforce your boundaries with your ex.
• Seek resources and community support for co-parenting challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Boundaries
01:34 Understanding the Importance of Boundaries
02:54 Who is a boundary for
04:32 Types of Boundaries in Co-Parenting
04:36 Emotional Boundaries
07:19 Communication Boundaries
08:16 Parenting Boundaries
09:08 Recap & Learn More

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

Send a text

Welcome to Kids First Co-Parenting, the podcast for smart, intentional moms navigating life after divorce with a difficult ex. Your host, Dr. Karalynn Royster, a child psychologist and co-parenting expert, this show offers real-world guidance for mothers raising emotionally secure kids in high conflict family dynamics.

Each episode blends child development insights with concrete strategies for managing co-parenting stress, setting boundaries with a toxic ex, protecting your child from conflict, and finding your footing as a confident, grounded parent. Whether you are navigating high conflict co parenting, parallel parenting, or co parenting with a narcissist, you will learn how to create stability for your kids, support their emotional well-being, and reclaim your own peace of mind.

Topics include co parenting communication, parenting plan mistakes to avoid, tools for dealing with controlling or manipulative exes, managing single mom burnout, and how to disengage strategically without feeling like you are giving up. You will also hear how to support your child’s emotional needs during and after divorce, set up effective routines in two homes, and rebuild your parenting identity on your own terms.

This show is your go-to resource for co parenting classes, co parenting counseling tips, managing the mental load for moms, and child-centered co parenting strategies backed by developmental science and trauma-informed care. You will also get behind-the-scenes access to insights from the Kids First Co-Parenting System and invitations to our free masterclasses and communication bootcamps.

If you are tired of co parenting drama and want real answers about how to co parent well, protect your child from the emotional fallout of divorce, and stop walking on eggshells every time you interact with your ex, this podcast is for you.

Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.

Get More Support

• How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
• Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime)

Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.

Social Links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube

The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...