Kids with Big Emotions Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

Join Our FB Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions 

In This Episode We Will Dive into:

How parents can manage their frustration when dealing with distracted children. Including:

1. Understanding the challenges of parenting a distracted child
2. Introduction to executive functioning skills and their impact on behavior
3. The importance of "refocusing" rather than just "focusing"
4. The concept of "flashlight vs. floodlight" attention (credit to Amisha Jha's book "Peak: Find Your Focus, Own Your Attention")
5. Exploring three key executive functioning skills:

• Attention and refocusing
• Inhibition
• Planning

1. How executive functioning challenges can manifest in daily activities
2. The role of stress, fatigue, and other factors in a child's ability to focus
3. Strategies for parents to manage their own reactions and support their child

Resources mentioned:

• Book Reco - Dr. Amishi Jha -  In Peak Mind: Find Your Focus, Own Your Attention
• Facebook group for parents (scroll up for link) 
• Option to book a 30-minute call with Andi  (scroll up for link) 

Key takeaways:

• Understanding the underlying reasons for a child's distraction can help reduce parental frustration
• Executive functioning skills develop into the mid-20s
• Breaking tasks into smaller steps can help children with executive functioning challenges
• Consider factors like stress, hunger, and fatigue when assessing a child's behavior
• Take a moment to breathe and reassess the situation before reacting

We invite listeners to reach out, share their experiences, and join our supportive community of parents navigating the challenges of raising children with big emotions and attention difficulties.

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

Join Our FB Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions 

Today We Will Dive into a heartfelt episode:

Host Andi Clark shares a powerful message of support and understanding for parents dealing with children's big emotions. 

Key points include:

1. A personal observation of a mother managing her child's emotional outburst at a public pool
2. Recognition of the mother's calm and patient approach during the challenging situation
3. Empathy and solidarity for parents facing similar struggles with their children's emotions
4. Acknowledgment of the difficulty in staying calm when children are in their "shark brain" or "clown brain"
5. Reassurance that parents are not alone in dealing with these challenges
6. Encouragement for parents to reach out for support and resources
7. Invitation for listeners to connect with Andy for further support and guidance

Resources mentioned:

• Facebook group for parents (link is above)
• Option to book a 30-minute call with Andi  (link is above) 

Key takeaways:

• The importance of staying calm during a child's emotional outburst
• Recognition of the hard work parents put into helping their children
• The value of community support in navigating parenting challenges
• Encouragement to seek help and resources when needed

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

Join Our FB Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions 

In This Episode We Will Dive into:

• "Some kids get extremely upset over losing, even when winning 80% of the time."
• "These kids often hyperfocus on the 20% losses and can't see the wins."

In this episode, Andi Clark explores why some children struggle intensely with losing, even when they win most of the time. The discussion covers understanding this challenge, the impact on children's behavior, and practical strategies for parents to help their kids manage these emotions.

Understanding the Struggle:

• Many children get extremely upset over losing, even if they win 80% of the time.
• These kids often hyperfocus on their losses (20%) and fail to acknowledge their wins.
• As a result, they may avoid competitions, games, and sports to escape the possibility of losing.

Parental Frustration:

• Parents often struggle to understand why their child gets upset despite winning frequently.
• Without understanding the child's perspective, it's challenging to provide effective support.

Strategies for Helping:

• Co-Regulation Handbook:
• Introducing structured steps to help children shift their focus from losses to wins.
• Reframing losses and highlighting positive outcomes can help alter their perspective.
• Collaborative vs. competitive games: Start with games that involve teamwork and gradually introduce competitive elements.
• Example: Playing tic-tac-toe with a partner who is a good sport about losing.

Step-by-Step Approach:

• Breaking down tasks (like learning to bake a cake or ride a bike) into manageable steps.
• Ensure children master basic steps before tackling bigger challenges.

Caution:

• Be aware of words/situations that might trigger a loss-focused mindset.
• Intentionally reinforce positives and wins with specific examples.
• Rephrase requests to be more positive and collaborative.
• Aim to shift the child's perspective from focusing on losses to appreciating wins.

LInk Mentioned https://www.collaborationlaboratory.com/ 

Mentioned in this episode:

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/yasumu/blue-waters License code: ULEPOJ2G3QK74TY1

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

Join Our FB Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions 

In This Episode We Will Dive into:

Hidden stressors that can cause anxiety and outbursts in children

Key Takeaways

• There are many hidden stressors that can overwhelm a child's nervous system and trigger outbursts.
• 
  
• Understanding these stressors can help parents better support their child's needs
• Stressors discussed include sensory processing issues, environmental toxins, nutrient deficiencies, executive functioning struggles, trauma, perfectionism, sleep issues, screen time, boredom/overstimulation, and more.

Links Mentioned 

• Mark Rober video explains why someone with Autism struggles to look in your eyes  —-  https://youtu.be/ybPgmjTRvMo?si=oHb2cf00x1-koZ2V 
• Stink -   It was on Netflix, but isn’t anymore.  Here is a link that is currently free -  https://youtu.be/lk6elw_VGB0?si=b0rtA-sSPMXAd2LP  
• THe co regulation handbook -    Co Regulation Handbook By LInda K Murphy -   great chapter on competing and not liking to lose  https://www.declarativelanguage.com/about-coregulation-handbook   
• Highly senstive child by Elaine Aaron  —  https://hsperson.com/books/the-highly-sensitive-child/ 

Auditory Processing Struggles

• Some kids struggle with overhearing and processing too much auditory input
• This can look like ADHD symptoms but may actually be an auditory processing disorder (APD)
• Kids with APD may hear everything too loudly/intensely and get overwhelmed

Visual/Memory Processing

• Some kids take in and process a huge amount of visual details and memories
• This can be overwhelming if their brain can't filter/prioritize the information
• They may notice tiny changes others miss, recall specific images from books, etc.

Environmental Toxins

• Many kids are highly sensitive to synthetic fragrances, dyes, etc. which can trigger anger/outbursts
• It's like having a "bomb-sniffing dog" sense of smell for these toxins
• Removing toxins from home, personal care products can make a big difference

Nutrient Deficiencies

• The stress response uses up nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C
• Gut issues can also impair nutrient absorption
• Correcting deficiencies can help "fuel" and regulate the stress response better

Executive Functioning Struggles

• Gifted kids often have executive function challenges like poor impulse control
• They may struggle with flexibility, transitioning,

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

In This Episode We Will Dive into:

Becoming a parent comes with many assumptions, one of which is the belief that disciplining a child and providing guidance will naturally lead them to learn and do the right thing. However, many parents quickly realize that it's not always that straightforward.

One significant mistake parents often make (I did)  is not understanding why their children have big emotions. It's crucial to differentiate between when a child can't control their emotions versus when they simply don't want to. Misinterpreting this can lead to ineffective discipline strategies.

Handling children's emotions incorrectly can significantly impact their emotional development. When managed properly, over time, it decreases the frequency and intensity of emotional outbursts. Conversely, mishandling these situations can increase emotional distress and potentially lead to traumas.

In this episode, we dive into the challenging world of children's emotions and explore why kids often struggle to handle their feelings. We'll discuss the common misconceptions parents have about discipline and guidance, and how understanding the root causes of children's big emotions can change the way we respond to them. By the end of this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into managing your child's emotional outbursts and fostering a healthier emotional environment at home.

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

In This Episode:

I interviewed Leah Pardee of the Bare Naked Soul podcast where Leah tells her story of how each stage of life she had to make choices in order to release the pressure that was stressing her out,  affecting her health and making her unhappy.

Choices that were not easy, but once implemented helped her become happier,  healthier, more successful and more in control of her life.  

Join us as Leah Pardee shares her insight,  struggles she had making these decisions and where she is now in life. 

Connect with Leah

https://leahpardee.com/  

https://www.instagram.com/itsleahpardee/

https://www.instagram.com/leahpardeephotography/

Leah interviewed me on her podcast talking about screen use and stress.  Here is the episode  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bare-naked-soul/id1473076176   

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

In This Episode: The amount of stress we take on is normalized

The Boiling Frog: Just as a frog placed in cold water gradually brought to a boil will not jump out, individuals often tolerate increasing levels of stress until it becomes overwhelming, without realizing the detrimental effects until it's too late.

The Weight on Shoulders: Normalized stress can feel like carrying a heavy weight on your shoulders, gradually wearing you down until it becomes unbearable, yet society often encourages individuals to bear this burden silently.

LINKS MENTIONED 

Focus App Article -   https://zapier.com/blog/stay-focused-avoid-distractions/  

WATCH - The Social Dilemma - https://www.thesocialdilemma.com/ 

Podcast I was interviewed on about screens -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bare-naked-soul/id1473076176   

Examples of Normalized Stressors:

Exploring the overworking culture, digital overload, comparison culture, and its link to perfectionism, we examine how these stressors manifest in our daily lives and contribute to chronic stress.

Impact of Social Media on Stress:

Discussing the detrimental effects of constant connectivity and comparison culture on our mental and physical well-being, we highlight the addictive nature of dopamine hits and the consequences of screen time before bed.

Embracing Discomfort for Change:

Reflecting on the reluctance to make changes and the difference between comfort and ease, we explore the transformative power of stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing growth.

Strategies for Digital Wellness:

Providing practical tips for managing social media stress, we discuss the role of focus apps, setting boundaries with social media, and fostering open communication with employers about digital wellness.

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

In This Episode:

Coach Sarfaraz Khan battled with chronic pain for years, then during the pandemic he had to close his business.   

Things were pretty dark.   His wife and kids were what kept him going.  

Thankfully Coach Sarfaraz Khan got out the other side.   He still has pain from time to time, but not the debilitating pain that took him out.  He stopped using the vices that were numbing him and got his life back on track.  

Find out how in this interview with a colleague of mine who because of his own experience is now a Sleep, Stress & Resilience coach helping others get their life back on track.  

Sarfaraz's Contact Info

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivewithsarf/

Email: sarfkhan@gmail.com

LInkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarfaraz-khan-acc-mba-529530b1/

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

In This Episode We Will Dive into:

In today's episode, we delve into the profound impact of unseen traumas on our lives. While we often focus on the obvious challenges we've faced, it's the subtle, unseen traumas that can silently shape our behaviors, decisions, and ultimately, our progress.

Unseen traumas, though unnoticed, can be significant barriers to good sleep,  decreasing stress, personal growth and development.

Despite our best efforts to overcome challenges and implement sleep and stress tools, certain behaviors and reactions persist, signaling the presence of deeper, unseen wounds.

We liken big T trauma to facing a towering mountain, while little T trauma is akin to stumbling over a pebble in our path. Both types of traumas leave lasting imprints on our neural pathways, influencing our responses to present-day stimuli.

Even after extensive self-work, these unseen traumas can persist, shaping our neural pathways and triggering protective mechanisms, such as internal family systems (IFS) protectors.

It's essential to recognize that even seemingly insignificant events from our past can leave a lasting impact on our present behaviors and decisions. Unseen traumas may lurk beneath the surface, influencing our actions and hindering our progress, regardless of how much we've worked on ourselves.

In our journey of self-discovery and growth, it's crucial to acknowledge the depth of unseen traumas. By unveiling these hidden wounds and addressing their impact, we can pave the way for true healing and progress.

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.com

Join Our Mailing List: 📬  https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/ 

Book a Call: 📞 https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall

In This Episode We Will Dive into:

In this episode, we delve into an Ah Ha moment that shifted the dynamics within my family, reducing stress, arguments, and fostering healthier relationships. 

Drawing from this experience I share the concept of Agenda vs. Self. 

Requesting someone to act before they're prepared is like trying to force a flower to bloom before its time. Rushing the process not only damages the flower but also diminishes the beauty and fragrance it could have brought forth naturally.

In a family it is HARD to not want to help them when you see them stumble.   Waiting for them to be ready is tough, but less stressful than putting my agenda on them.   And the end results are so much sweeter…

…LIke plucking fruit before it's fully ripened. It's not only premature but also leads to a lack of sweetness and satisfaction for both parties involved.

The key to fostering calm nights and strong days lies in finding happiness within oneself. 

By discerning between Agenda and Self, individuals can navigate life's journey with authenticity and purpose.