Explore every episode of the podcast Parents of the Year
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 234. Why Does Everything Feel Too Much for Your Child? | 21 oct. 2026 | 00:21:40 | |
Does your child cover their ears when music plays, refuse certain clothes, or become overwhelmed by everyday sounds and smells? You might wonder whether to accommodate their sensory sensitivities or encourage them to push through. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline shares their experiences of living in a household with ADHD and sensory sensitivities. From Dr. Caroline's struggle with background noise to their daughters' reactions to food textures, smells, and physical touch, they explore how sensory overload affects everyday family life. They discuss the difference between sensory discomfort and anxiety, when accommodations are helpful, and when children need support building coping skills. Andrew also shares how he's learned to adjust his own habits without expecting the entire household to change. Discover practical ways to recognise sensory overload, reduce unnecessary stress, respect individual needs, and help children manage situations they can't always avoid. Listen now to learn how your family can make room for sensory needs while building confidence and independence.
These activities are drawn from Andrew and Dr. Caroline's conversation, with practical prompts added so listeners can try them at home. Activity 1: Create a Sensory Sensitivity Map Spend a few days observing when your child becomes uncomfortable with sounds, smells, textures, clothing, or touch. Notice whether reactions are stronger after school, during busy activities, or when they're tired. Try this: Ask your child, "Which part of your day feels the loudest, busiest, or most uncomfortable?" Activity 2: Make a Sensory Coping Kit Work together to choose tools that help. Dr. Caroline discusses headphones, distractions, and planning for recovery after demanding outings. Try this: Before grocery shopping, ask, "Would headphones help today, or would you prefer a shorter trip?" Activity 3: Practise Asking for Accommodations Andrew explains that he's more willing to adjust the music when someone explains they're having a difficult day rather than demanding that everything change. Try this: Practise saying, "The music feels too loud for me right now. Could we turn it down a little?" Activity 4: Plan for Sensory Recovery Dr. Caroline describes how a trip to the grocery store can use up a significant amount of a child's energy. Try this: After a noisy outing, leave room for a quiet activity before expecting homework, chores, or social interaction. Activity 5: Decide What Really Needs Practising Some sensory issues can be managed through simple adjustments, like buying comfortable socks or avoiding an unpleasant spoon. Other situations, including wearing appropriate clothing in cold weather, need more deliberate support. Try this: Choose one sensory difficulty and ask, "Does this affect safety or something my child needs to do regularly?" For essential activities, use gradual, child-led practice rather than forcing a child through severe distress. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 233. Are You Preparing Your Kids for Life Without You? | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:40:52 | |
Are You Preparing Your Kids for Life Without You? Your child can get good grades, follow the rules, and still struggle with everyday responsibilities when they leave home. So, how do you prepare them for real life? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline shares what they've learned watching their eldest daughter navigate her first weeks of independent living. From budgeting and meal planning to car maintenance, roommate conflicts, and difficult conversations, they're seeing which childhood lessons are paying off. They discuss why emotional regulation, problem-solving, and healthy boundaries matter long before adulthood. You'll also hear how small opportunities to make decisions, handle discomfort, and take responsibility can build lasting confidence. Whether your child is five or fifteen, this conversation offers practical ways to prepare them for greater independence without stepping in to solve every problem. Listen to discover how everyday parenting moments can help your child become a capable, confident young adult.
These activities are drawn from the experiences and parenting strategies Andrew and Dr. Caroline discuss in the episode. They're adapted into exercises parents can try at home. Activity 1: Let Your Child Solve One Problem Choose an age-appropriate problem your child can take responsibility for, from a missing school item to booking an appointment. Ask: "What's the problem? What options do you have? What do you think you should do?" Goal: Build problem-solving confidence without immediately providing the answer. Activity 2: Practise Speaking Up Encourage your child to make a request or ask a question independently. Younger children can ask a restaurant server for a takeaway container. Teens can make a phone call to arrange an appointment. Goal: Help children become comfortable communicating with adults and advocating for themselves. Activity 3: Practise a Difficult Conversation Choose a small disagreement and practise expressing different opinions respectfully. Encourage listening, acknowledging the other person's concerns, and looking for possible solutions. Goal: Develop healthy communication and conflict-resolution skills. Activity 4: Give Your Child One New Responsibility Have your child plan a meal, manage a small budget, organize their weekly schedule, or learn a household task. Give guidance when needed, but let them make manageable decisions. Goal: Strengthen planning, time management, and everyday responsibility. Activity 5: Make Room for Discomfort When your child experiences frustration or disappointment, acknowledge their feelings before offering solutions. Ask: "What might help you get through this?" Allow space for manageable discomfort while remaining available for support. Goal: Help children practise emotional regulation and tolerate everyday setbacks. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 232. Can You Find Yourself Again After Becoming a Parent? | 07 oct. 2026 | 00:46:42 | |
Can you remember the last time you did something simply because you loved it? Parenthood can slowly become a cycle of practices, appointments, work, meals, driving, and making sure everyone else has what they need. Somewhere inside all that responsibility, your own interests can become harder to recognize. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk with Amanda Alcorn, mother of seven and creator of The Embodied Mother, about what happens when parenting becomes a grind and your joy starts coming almost entirely through your children. Amanda shares the moment she realized she had spent years caring for everyone else while losing touch with herself. The conversation explores why changing your surroundings may not change how you live, how to identify what no longer feels right, why small experiments can help you rediscover what you enjoy, and how quiet time, nature, movement, and less time online can create space to reconnect with yourself. You do not need to move to Hawaii or completely reinvent your life. Sometimes the starting point is much smaller: noticing what drains you, remembering what once made you feel alive, and making room to try something different. If you've ever thought, “I don't even know what I enjoy anymore,” this conversation is worth hearing. About Amanda Alcorn Amanda Alcorn is the founder of Wild Uhane and a mother of seven living on Oʻahu. She helps women reconnect with themselves and rediscover joy through intentional living, movement, nature, and spiritual connection.
Email: amanda@wilduhane.com Website: www.wilduhane.com Programs: The Embodied Mother | The Embodied Life Book: Love & Manifestation for Your Wild Child – Available on Amazon Substack: Available through Wild Uhane
If you can't answer, “What brings me joy?” don't force it. Start with the easier question: What doesn't feel good anymore? Write down three parts of your current routine that consistently leave you depleted, resentful, disconnected, or rushed. Beside each one, ask: Does this actually need to stay this way? Choose one small adjustment to test this week.
Amanda recommends beginning with just five minutes of quiet. No scrolling. Sit somewhere comfortable, follow your breathing, and notice what is happening in your body and mind. You don't need to accomplish anything during those five minutes.
Don't wait until you suddenly remember your passion. Experiment. Write down five things you used to enjoy or have been curious about trying. Choose one this week. It could be riding a bike, gardening, painting, hiking, swimming, reading outside, dancing, baking, photography, woodworking, or something completely new. Afterward, ask: Did I want more of that? That answer is useful information.
Choose one predictable period each day when your phone is physically out of reach. Try dinner, the first 30 minutes after everyone gets home, a walk, or bedtime. Notice what happens when your attention isn't split between the people in front of you and everyone online.
Complete these sentences privately: I thought family life would feel like... Right now, it feels like... I wish we had more... I wish we had less... One thing I would change if I gave myself permission is... You don't need to make a huge decision after answering them. The goal is to get honest about the life you're currently living. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 231. Why Is My Teen Motivated at One School but Not Another? | 30 sept. 2026 | 00:21:18 | |
Why can a teen struggle with motivation in one school and suddenly thrive in another? Andrew and Dr. Caroline are joined by their daughter Willow for a candid conversation about her new high school experience and the surprising difference that autonomy, flexibility, and trust have made. After years of frustration with rigid schedules, sitting in classrooms for hours, being expected to learn one way, and waiting for everyone else to catch up, Willow is now learning at her own pace. She can choose where she works, seek help from teachers who explain things in ways that make sense to her, take breaks when she needs them, and move through coursework as quickly as she is able. The result? A teenager with ADHD who Dr. Caroline worried might struggle with this much independence is working ahead, asking for help, managing her responsibilities, and actually enjoying school. They also talk about why being trusted can change motivation, what happens when teenagers are given meaningful responsibility, finding the right learning environment, friendships without the usual school cliques, and Willow's experience navigating high school without social media. If you've ever wondered whether a child's lack of motivation might have something to do with the environment they're being asked to learn in, this conversation offers plenty to think about.
Think about one area where your teen repeatedly procrastinates, resists or needs reminders. Instead of starting with "How do I make them do it?", look at the conditions surrounding the task. Ask yourself: Where do they have choice? Where might the environment be getting in the way? Are they being given responsibility or being closely managed? Then experiment with giving them ownership over one part of the task this week.
Willow describes needing concepts explained in several different ways before they click. She also values being able to seek out teachers who communicate in a way that works for her. Try asking: "When something is hard to learn, what makes it easier for your brain to understand it?" Listen before suggesting solutions.
Choose one responsibility your teen already knows how to complete. Agree on the expectation and deadline, then reduce the reminders. Watch what happens. This connects directly with Willow's story about cleaning the entire house, including her sister's chores, when nobody was around directing or nagging her.
Don't wait until your teen is overwhelmed. Ask: "If school starts getting harder, what could you do?" Willow already identified her own options: attend more seminars, use subject resource centres, find a quiet study pod, ask more questions, study more before tests and ask her parents for help. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 230. How Do You Raise Kids Who Can Handle Problems Themselves? | 23 sept. 2026 | 00:17:48 | |
Are You Helping Your Kids Too Much? Watching your child struggle can make every parenting instinct scream, “Help them!” But sometimes the most useful thing a parent can do is wait. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk candidly about watching their daughters become increasingly independent and how surprisingly difficult it can be to resist jumping in and fixing things. From overflowing sinks and flat tires to bank cards, student loans, schoolwork and household chores, they share what happens when parents give kids room to solve problems themselves. Dr. Caroline explains why independence can start much earlier than the teenage years. A toddler reaching for a toy, a child learning to make their bed or a teen dealing with a problem at school can all practise figuring out what to do before an adult steps in. You’ll also hear why independence still needs boundaries, how scaffolding can make responsibilities easier without doing them for your child, and why constant nagging can work against the autonomy parents are trying to build. If you’ve ever caught yourself fixing something your child could probably handle, this conversation may make you reconsider when to help, when to guide and when to simply get out of the way.
These exercises closely reflect what Andrew and Dr. Caroline discuss throughout the episode, particularly their emphasis on stepping back, boundaries, scaffolding and reducing friction. The Three Things Rule Before solving a manageable problem for your child, ask: “What are three things you’ve tried first?” Don’t immediately suggest the three things. Give your child time to generate possible solutions. Your homework: Try this once this week with a problem you would normally solve for them. The 10 Second Pause Notice what happens inside you when your child struggles. Before stepping in, wait ten seconds. Ask yourself: Are they unsafe, or am I uncomfortable watching them struggle? If they’re safe, give them another moment. Hand Over the Tools Look for one task you normally complete for your child that they could attempt themselves. Instead of doing it, provide what they need. The episode gives a great real-life version of this: Andrew’s daughter needed help, so he dropped off the tools and left her to handle the job. Reduce Friction Without Removing Responsibility Choose one responsibility your child regularly struggles to start. Make starting easier without completing the job. Dr. Caroline describes having the dog waste bags ready when Willow already had her jacket and shoes on. The responsibility remained Willow’s, but one barrier to getting started disappeared. Set the Boundary, Then Stop Nagging Pick one recurring responsibility. State:
Then resist repeated reminders. Andrew and Dr. Caroline describe using this approach with dishwasher duties, where Willow has choice within a clear household boundary. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 229. Why Does Everything Feel Too Much for My Child? | 16 sept. 2026 | 00:33:56 | |
Why does every conversation with your child seem to turn into a fight? Why do your attempts to help leave both of you feeling worse? When a child or teen experiences emotions that feel overwhelming, their brain naturally searches for relief. Sometimes that relief comes through behaviours that worry the adults who love them most, including self harm or other self destructive coping strategies. Understanding why those behaviours develop changes the way we respond. In this episode, Dr. Caroline Buzanko is joined by therapist and author Katie K. May to explore why validation is one of the most powerful tools for reducing emotional intensity, why regulating yourself comes before trying to regulate your child, and how everyday interactions can either strengthen connection or increase conflict. You'll learn why emotional validation does not encourage unhealthy behaviour, how to recognise what sits underneath anger and irritability, practical ways to step out of power struggles, and why building connection often starts with simply sharing space together. If you're supporting a young person with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, depression, self harm, or intense emotional reactions, this conversation offers practical strategies you can begin using today. In this episode you'll learn:
About Katie K. May Website: www.katiekmay.com Instagram for Parents of Teens: https://www.instagram.com/creative_healing Instagram for Therapists: https://www.instagram.com/katiekmay Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiekmay Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiekmay Resources:
Create your own stress scale from 0 to 10. Ask yourself several times each day:
Practise using calming strategies before difficult conversations.
For one week, resist the urge to immediately fix your child's emotions. Use statements like:
Notice how the conversation changes.
When emotions appear, simply label them. Examples:
Avoid jumping immediately into solutions. Spend 15 Minutes Together Without Correcting Spend fifteen uninterrupted minutes in the same room. No reminders. Just share space together.
When you're becoming overwhelmed, say it aloud. "I'm feeling frustrated." "I'm going to take a few minutes." "I'll come back when I'm calmer." Your child learns emotional regulation by watching yours. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 228. Why Are We So Busy but Still Getting Nowhere? | 09 sept. 2026 | 00:26:38 | |
Do you ever reach the end of the day exhausted, yet still feel like you didn’t do enough? Parents are surrounded by pressure to do more, achieve more, improve more, and somehow help their kids do the same. But trying to pursue everything can leave us making very little progress on what actually matters. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk about the difference between having big aspirations and endlessly chasing possibilities. They explore why too many goals can leave us stuck, how comparison and hustle culture feed the feeling that we’re falling behind, and why meaningful progress often comes from choosing one realistic action you can take today. They also look at what this means for kids. Rather than shutting down big dreams, parents can help children and teens connect those dreams to their daily choices: How are you spending your time? What are you willing to practise? What can you do today that moves you closer? From writing a book to saving for school to simply texting a friend when they cross your mind, this conversation is a reminder that a meaningful life gets built in the small moments we keep waiting to act on. If your days feel packed but the things that matter keep getting pushed aside, this episode may change what you choose to do with your time today. The episode naturally gives you several strong activities rather than a formal homework assignment.
Choose one thing you genuinely want to accomplish. Ask: “What is one thing I can do today to move towards it?” Dr. Caroline describes doing exactly this with her book. After years of talking about writing it, she scheduled dedicated blocks every day. At the time of recording, the manuscript was already with a publisher for review. Try It With Your Child
Ask: “What could you do today that would move you a little closer?” For a teen aiming for a particular GPA, that could mean studying tonight. For a child interested in art, it could mean drawing for 20 minutes. The aim is to connect aspirations with behaviour rather than leaving them as distant ideas.
Choose one important project and put uninterrupted time in your calendar. Andrew and Dr. Caroline discuss 90 minutes as a useful period for focused work, with one important condition: it actually needs to be focused. For parents with younger children, 90 minutes may be unrealistic. The principle matters more than the number. Protect whatever amount of focused time your current circumstances genuinely allow.
For one week, notice small opportunities to act on the kind of person you want to be. Thinking about a friend? Text them. Does someone need the door held? Hold it. Opportunity to be patient with your child? Take it. Dr. Caroline makes the point that becoming kinder or more generous doesn’t require creating another elaborate project for yourself. The character gets practised in ordinary moments.
This one works particularly well with teens. When there’s something coming up, identify it without turning it into today’s crisis. Then ask: “Is there one small thing I can do today that will make this easier for me in the future me?” Andrew describes this through their daughter thinking about having enough money for the following semester. The future expense didn’t need to consume her present day, but she could acknowledge it and make small choices that helped prepare for it. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 227. Why won’t your child tell you what’s wrong? | 02 sept. 2026 | 00:20:14 | |
Your child comes home from school. You ask how their day went. “Fine.” And now you’re left wondering whether they’re actually fine, overwhelmed, lonely, worried about finding their classroom, struggling with a locker, or simply not ready to talk. School transitions can bring excitement, uncertainty, social worries, new responsibilities, and plenty of stress. And when parents see their child struggling, the instinct to step in, fix the problem, offer advice, or make things easier can be hard to resist. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk about helping kids through transitions without micromanaging the experience. Caroline explains why validation should come before advice, how open-ended questions help kids build their own problem-solving skills, and why parents need to understand what is actually getting in the way before deciding their child needs help. They also share practical ideas from their own family, including their “bravery jar,” practising locker combinations before school, building study habits early, and helping kids stretch beyond their comfort zone without taking over. Whether your child is starting a new grade, moving into junior high or high school, heading to university, or facing another big change, this episode will help you know when to support, when to validate, and when to give them room to figure things out. These activities come directly from the strategies Dr. Caroline discusses in the episode.
Kids often genuinely answer “I don’t know” because they cannot identify what they are worried about on demand. Caroline recommends brainstorming possibilities together. Write down possible concerns:
Ask your child to cross out what doesn’t bother them and check anything that might.
For one week, notice what happens when your child brings you a problem. Before giving advice, try: “That sounds tough.” “That’s a lot.” “Wow.” Then wait. When they feel heard, ask: “What do you need?”
Choose one responsibility your child will encounter during their transition and practise it before they need it under pressure. Dr. Caroline describes buying a similar lock and having their child practise opening it before school. That removed one worry from an already stressful transition. Other possibilities:
Dr. Caroline shares how their family used a bravery jar to encourage small steps outside their children’s comfort zones. Fill a jar with manageable challenges: “Compliment someone.” “Say hello to someone new.” “Sit with someone at lunch.” “Ask someone a question.” “Try one unfamiliar activity.” The goal is growth, rather than suddenly becoming confident or having lots of friends.
Before worrying about your child sitting alone, having a small friend group or skipping certain social activities, ask: “Are they unhappy with this, or am I?” Dr. Caroline shares that one of their daughters sometimes chose to read alone because she wanted the downtime. What might look concerning to a parent may be exactly what the child wants. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 226. Are Your Expectations Getting in Your Child's Way? | 26 août 2026 | 00:28:22 | |
You want your child to be happy, successful and confident. But when does wanting the best for them quietly turn into deciding what their life should look like? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline get personal as one of their daughters prepares to move out. That milestone sparks a bigger conversation about the goals parents carry for their children and how easily our own experiences, missed opportunities and expectations can shape them. They talk about raising curious lifelong learners, letting kids choose their own path, modelling rather than pushing, building confidence through new experiences, and why frustration and disappointment have an important place in growing up. Caroline also offers a simple exercise: write down the goals you have for your child, ask why each one matters, who it is really for, and whether it supports growth. Your child doesn't need to become the person you pictured. Your job is to give them opportunities to discover who they can become. Parent Homework Ideas This is the clearest actionable exercise from the episode. Dr. Caroline tells listeners to write down their goals, ask why they hold each one, determine who benefits and consider whether the goal focuses on growth.
Without editing yourself, finish: "I want my child to…" Examples might include:
Beside every goal, write: Why does this matter to me? Then go one layer deeper: Is this connected to something I wanted, missed, struggled with or valued in my own life? Dr. Caroline points directly to this distinction: wanting university because you didn't attend, athletics because you had an unrealized athletic dream, or confidence because you lacked it yourself.
Mark each goal: Mostly for my child / Mostly for me / Both Pay particular attention to goals that affect how you believe your child's choices reflect on you.
Change goals you cannot control into opportunities for development. Instead of: "I want my child to always be happy." Try: "I want my child to recognize moments of happiness and develop the skills to cope with difficult emotions." Dr. Caroline makes this distinction in the episode, explaining that children need the full range of emotions and the ability to recognize, manage and move through them.
Give your child an opportunity to experience something without requiring them to love it. That could be cooking, skating, volunteering, hiking, music, sport, art, reading, travel or another family interest. Parent rule: expose, invite and model. Don't make your child's enthusiasm the measure of success. Andrew and Dr. Caroline describe this with fitness and golf: their daughters were exposed to these activities without being pushed, then returned to some of them later for motivations of their own. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 225. How do we help kids transition back to school? | 19 août 2026 | 00:24:51 | |
Are you ready to kickstart the new school year with ease and confidence? If you haven't already, check out these additional resources:
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 224. When Did Parenting Become Our Entire Identity? | 12 août 2026 | 00:40:08 | |
There is a moment that catches many parents by surprise. The children are growing up, becoming more independent, and suddenly a new question appears: Who am I outside of being Mom or Dad? In this episode, Andrew and Dr. Caroline begin with a light-hearted conversation about adventure, risk-taking, and their very different comfort zones. That playful discussion quickly turns into something much deeper. They explore how parenting has changed across generations, why fathers are more involved than ever before, and how the expectations placed on both parents continue to grow. The conversation looks at:
Andrew and Dr. Caroline also discuss school refusal, parenting as a team, supporting children without rescuing them, maintaining healthy boundaries, and preparing for life after the children leave home. If you've ever felt that your identity has slowly been replaced by schedules, practices, homework, appointments and responsibilities, this conversation will probably feel very familiar. This episode is a reminder that raising healthy children should never come at the cost of losing yourself. Listen now to discover practical ideas for protecting your relationship, supporting your children and reconnecting with the person you were before parenting became your full-time identity. The discussion centres on changing parenting roles, father involvement, maintaining boundaries, parental burnout, and preparing for the empty-nest years. Parent Homework
For one week, each parent writes down five things the other parent did that made family life easier. Share the lists together at the end of the week. The goal here is noticing and acknowledging each other’s contribution rather than empty praise.
Set aside twenty minutes without children or devices and write your answer to: If I wasn't responsible for anyone else today, how would I choose to spend my time? Notice what comes up. What is one step you could do towards that? Next, schedule when you’re going to take that step and protect that time. Continue to build from there.
Think about one recent situation where your child wanted to avoid something difficult, like school, practice, homework, or sleeping alone. Ask yourself:
Choose one recurring situation and decide ahead of time what boundary you’ll hold and how you’ll support them through it. If you’re parenting together, agree on the response so there isn’t an “escape hatch” with the other parent. The goal is to help your child learn: “This is hard, and I can still do it.”
Ask each family member: "What is one thing you think I really enjoy doing?" The answers are often surprising and can reveal how your children currently see you. See if they spark any ideas of things for you to try. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 223. Why Does Parenting Make You Forget Everything? | 05 août 2026 | 00:37:11 | |
You walk into a room and can't remember why you're there. Your keys end up in the fridge. You forget permission slips, lunches and appointments, then wonder if you're simply becoming forgetful. You're probably not. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explores what actually happens inside the brain after becoming a parent. They explain why "baby brain" isn't about losing intelligence, how caregiving changes the way the brain organizes information, and why parents often feel mentally overloaded. You'll also hear practical ways to reduce mental clutter, including creating an external brain with calendars, visual checklists, launch pads, routines and simple systems that make everyday life easier. If parenting has left you feeling mentally stretched, this conversation offers reassurance and realistic strategies you can begin using today. Homework Ideas
Choose one area where you feel mentally overloaded and create a system so your brain doesn't have to remember everything. Create a family calendar. Whether it's digital or paper, keep every appointment, activity, practice and event in one place that everyone can see. Create a launch pad. Choose one location near your door for:
Everything goes back to the same place every day. Take photos instead of relying on memory. Create picture checklists for:
Keep the photos on your phone for quick reference. Automate one recurring decision. Ideas include:
Reduce the number of daily decisions you need to make. Schedule recovery time. Try one of these:
Looking after yourself helps your brain support everyone else. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 222. Could an AI Girlfriend Change the Way Your Teen Sees Real Relationships? | 29 juil. 2026 | 00:29:49 | |
AI companions are becoming part of everyday life, and many families have no idea how quickly they're finding their way into teenagers' worlds. Reports suggest that one in five boys between 12 and 16 either has an AI girlfriend or knows someone who does. That statistic raises important questions about loneliness, connection, emotional development, and what healthy relationships may look like for the next generation. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explore why some young people are turning to AI for companionship, what these virtual relationships provide that real relationships cannot, and the social skills children risk missing when technology removes rejection, disagreement, and emotional discomfort. They also discuss dating apps, loneliness, online validation, unrealistic expectations, and practical ways parents can stay connected without creating shame or secrecy. This conversation is not about fearing technology. It's about understanding why these tools are appealing, recognising the risks, and helping children build the confidence, communication skills, and real-life relationships they need to thrive.
This week's conversation isn't about banning AI. It's about helping children build the kinds of relationships that technology can never replace. Here are practical ways to put the discussion into action. 1. Ask Before You Advise This week, choose one moment to ask your child about the technology they enjoy without trying to correct or teach. Try questions like:
The goal is to understand first. 2. Create One Device-Free Connection Each Week Choose one activity where phones stay away. Ideas include:
Children are far more likely to talk when conversation isn't forced. 3. Teach That Relationships Include Discomfort Use everyday situations to reinforce that healthy relationships include:
Those experiences build emotional maturity. 4. Learn About AI Together Rather than assuming what AI can or cannot do, spend 20 minutes exploring it together. Look at:
Knowing what's available makes future conversations much easier. 5. Review Family Technology Expectations If you don't already have family expectations around technology, now is a good time. Discuss:
Make the conversation collaborative rather than punitive. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 221. Can You Build Respect Without Yelling or Punishment? | 22 juil. 2026 | 00:28:56 | |
You feel like every simple request turns into a debate. Picking up a backpack, putting away a phone, getting ready for bed, or helping around the house somehow becomes another power struggle. After enough of those moments, it's easy to wonder whether your child respects you at all. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explain why respect isn't something children automatically have for adults. It's something they learn through consistent leadership, clear boundaries, connection, and practice. They discuss the habits that quietly weaken parental authority, including negotiating every rule, repeating instructions without following through, avoiding conflict, allowing screens to replace family connection, and expecting counsellors or diagnoses to solve parenting challenges. You'll also learn practical ways to strengthen your relationship through family rituals, shared fun, predictable boundaries, calm communication, and leading with confidence instead of control. If you're tired of constant arguments and want your child to listen because they trust your leadership rather than fear your reactions, this episode offers practical strategies you can start using today. Homework Ideas This episode is highly practical. Andrew and Caroline encourage parents to focus less on getting immediate obedience and more on building leadership over time. Choose one family rule that regularly turns into an argument. Rewrite it so it's:
Avoid creating new rules in the heat of frustration. Establish a boundary Instead of repeating yourself, state the expectation once and state the consequence once. A consequence is something you can enforce, something YOU are going to do. For example, if you tell your child the expectation is that they turn off their screen at dinner, the consequence of not following through is that you will take their screen away until the next day. To be most successful, remain emotionally neutral. Follow through calmly and consistently. Notice how much less talking is required. Protect one family ritual this week. Ideas include:
The activity matters less than being consistently present together. Add one moment of fun every day. It doesn't need to be elaborate. Try:
Small shared moments build connection. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 220. What money lessons should every child learn before leaving home? | 15 juil. 2026 | 00:35:00 | |
Schools teach algebra, chemistry, and history, but many children graduate without knowing how to earn, manage, save, or spend money wisely. That leaves one important question: who is teaching the financial skills they'll rely on for the rest of their lives? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline sit down with financial educator Vince Shorb, founder of the National Financial Educators Council, to explore simple ways families can build financial confidence at home. This conversation is packed with practical ideas that fit naturally into everyday family life. You'll learn why financial literacy doesn't require complicated investing lessons, how small daily conversations create lasting habits, and why involving children in real financial decisions can prepare them for adulthood long before they leave home. Whether your child is five or preparing for university, this episode offers realistic strategies that help children develop confidence, responsibility, and important skills that will set them up for future success.
Vince Shorb is one of the country’s leading advocates for promoting financial literacy and a thought leader in teaching and scaling financial education programming. After spending 15 years in financial services working one-on-one with more than 20,000 people, he founded the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) – an organization dedicated to combating the financial illiteracy epidemic. Shorb has led the NFEC in the development of 2,500 financial literacy programs and more than 80 financial literacy assets. He has been featured in publications on USA Today, CNBC, Yahoo Finance, Forbes, CNN Money, MarketWatch, Fox Business, Huffington Post, NASDAQ, and Business Insider. Connect with Vince: Website: https://financialeducatorscouncil.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinceshorb/ This episode encourages families to move beyond talking about money only when there's a purchase to make. These simple activities help children build confidence through real experiences rather than lectures. 1. Hold a Monthly Family Money Meeting Choose one day each month to sit together for 20–30 minutes. Discuss:
Keep the conversation positive and focused on learning, not judgement. 2. Create a Family Chore Economy Instead of assigning chores without discussion, involve children in deciding how they can contribute to the household. Together:
3. Practise Opportunity Cost While Shopping At the grocery store, ask questions like:
The goal isn't saving every dollar. It's helping children begin weighing choices. 4. Compare Household Bills Choose one utility bill each month. Challenge the family to reduce usage over the next month. Examples:
If everyone meets the goal, use part of the savings for a family activity. Examples:
5. Research a Future Purchase Before buying something significant, have your child investigate the full cost. Ideas include:
Ask them to calculate:
This teaches ownership rather than simply buying. 6. Career Conversation Challenge Each month, invite someone to talk about their work. Ideas include:
Ask:
This broadens children's understanding of career possibilities before post-secondary decisions. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 219. Why kids ignore rules even when they understand them? | 08 juil. 2026 | 00:32:44 | |
Respect doesn't suddenly appear during the teenage years. Responsibility, honesty, gratitude, and consideration for others are skills children learn through repeated teaching, consistent expectations, and everyday family interactions. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explore why many families struggle with disrespect, constant negotiations, and boundary battles. They explain why discipline should be viewed as teaching rather than punishment and why calm, confident leadership creates far better results than power struggles. You'll hear practical examples of setting limits around chores, honesty, screen time, family responsibilities, and respectful communication while staying connected to your child. They also discuss why children need explicit instruction instead of assuming they already know what respectful behaviour looks like. If you're tired of repeating yourself, negotiating every request, or wondering why consequences don't seem to work, this episode offers practical strategies that help children build responsibility while strengthening family relationships. Homework for FamiliesThis week's challenge isn't about adding more rules. It's about becoming more intentional with the rules you already have. 1. Choose Three Family Expectations Instead of correcting everything, identify the three behaviours that matter most in your home. Examples:
Write them somewhere everyone can see. 2. Replace "Don't..." With "Do..." Notice how often instructions begin with:
Replace them with clear instruction. Examples:
Children learn faster when they know exactly what success looks like. 3. Decide Your Follow Through Before the Problem Happens Ask yourself: "If my child doesn't follow this expectation, what will I calmly do?" Notice the question isn't: "What will I make my child do?" It's: "What action will I consistently take?" 4. Catch Helpful Behaviour This week, intentionally notice one helpful behaviour each day. Examples: "Thanks for putting your dishes away." "I noticed you told me the truth." "I appreciated how calmly you handled that." Positive reinforcement helps repeat behaviours you want to see again. 5. Model Repair If you lose your patience this week: Own it. Apologise. Explain what you'll do differently next time. Children learn as much from watching adults repair mistakes as they do from watching adults succeed. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 218. Should kids always say "It's okay" after an apology? | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:24:53 | |
Should children always reply "It's okay" when someone apologizes? A conversation sparked by Brené Brown opens the door to a much bigger discussion about the language we teach children and the messages those words carry. Andrew and Dr. Caroline explores why genuine apologies matter, why accountability should never disappear just because someone says "sorry," and how everyday interactions shape children's relationships for years to come. They also discuss:
Whether you're helping siblings work through conflict or supporting teens as they build friendships, this episode offers practical ideas for raising children who communicate with honesty, empathy and respect. Homework Ideas
Choose one conversation this week where your goal is simply to listen without interrupting, correcting or fixing. Homework 2: Practise I Statements Replace blame with ownership. Instead of: "You never listen." Try: "I'm feeling frustrated because..." Homework 3: Brainstorm Together The next time a family problem comes up:
Homework 4: Model Everyday Respect Notice the small interactions children see:
These moments teach social skills more than formal lessons. Homework 5: Rethink Apologies The next time someone apologizes: Rather than automatically saying "It's okay," try: "Thank you for apologizing." Notice how the conversation feels different. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 217. When Is It okay for kids to lie? | 24 juin 2026 | 00:25:21 | |
When Is It Okay for Kids to Lie? A Parent's Guide to Honesty, Friendship, and Boundaries As parents, we tell our kids to be honest. Then one day they use us as the excuse to get out of plans with friends. So what happens when honesty feels harder than a harmless excuse? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackle a surprisingly complicated parenting question: Is it ever okay to teach kids to lie? The conversation starts with a teenage daughter blaming "strict mom" to avoid a social outing and quickly turns into a bigger discussion about friendships, people-pleasing, social pressure, and why some kids feel the need to avoid telling the truth. Andrew and Dr. Caroline share personal stories, parenting mistakes, and real-life examples while exploring:
If you've ever wondered whether your child is avoiding conflict, struggling with friendships, or having trouble setting boundaries, this episode offers practical conversations you can start today. Listen now and discover how teaching honesty sometimes starts with helping kids understand themselves first.
Draw a circle with lines extending outward like a wheel. For each friend, rate them from 0-10 on:
Discuss:
Activity 2: The "Why Am I Avoiding This?" Conversation If your child wants to cancel plans: Ask:
Activity 3: Honesty vs Kindness Scenarios Review situations together:
Discuss:
Activity 4: Relationship Non-Negotiables List Ask your teen to identify:
Examples:
Track social activities for two weeks. After each outing, rate:
Review patterns together. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 216. Are Parents Giving Away Too Much Control Over Their Kids' Health? | 17 juin 2026 | 00:29:20 | |
Somewhere along the way, a lot of parenting shifted from leading to negotiating. We talk our kids into things, trade screen time for cooperation, and let the daily battles get decided by whoever has more energy that night usually not us. Drawing on their own experience raising ADHD kids, in Part 2 of their Reclaiming In this episode, they focus on lifestyle specifically, including nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. You'll hear practical ideas for setting boundaries without becoming authoritarian, reducing power struggles around food, creating healthier sleep habits, and helping children develop routines that can serve them well into adulthood. Listen now and discover how a few consistent decisions today can shape your child's future for years to come. Homework Ideas to Rebuilt Authority in the Lifestyle Arena Pick one boundary and hold it through the pushback Separate the feeling from the decision Name your non-negotiables Examples:
Audit Your Home Environment Ask yourself:
Identify one small step you can make this week to promote a healthier habit in your family. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 215. Why don’t kids respect parents the way they used to? Part 1 Parental Authority Series | 10 juin 2026 | 00:38:10 | |
Are Parents Losing Authority? Why Respect at Home Is Breaking Down Why are so many parents feeling ignored, dismissed, or completely powerless with their kids? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackle the growing culture of disrespect happening at home, at school, online, and across society. From kindergarten graduation fights between parents to teens brushing off rules without a second thought, they unpack what changed and what families can do about it. This conversation digs into gentle parenting gone too far, the pressure parents face from social media, and why so many adults are scared to set firm boundaries. Andrew and Caroline share personal stories about raising teens, handling screen time, teaching respect, building family culture, and helping kids care about the opinions of the people who love them most. They also talk about:
This episode is honest, funny, uncomfortable at times, and packed with practical parenting conversations every family should be having right now. If you’ve ever thought: this episode is for you. Homework Ideas Create One Non-Negotiable Rule Practice “Broken Record Parenting” Family Contribution Audit Teach Respect Through Real-Life Practice Schedule One “Just for Fun” Parent-Child Activity
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 214. Will Your Adult Kids Want to Spend Time With You Later? | 03 juin 2026 | 00:26:32 | |
Why Do Some Parents Actually Enjoy Parenting More Than Others? Why do some families seem genuinely connected, even during busy seasons, while others feel like they’re running a constant relay race of chores, sports, and stress? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk about the simple moments that shape strong family relationships long after childhood ends. From late-night talks and Sunday dinners to grocery store runs, family group chats, funny memes, and spontaneous golf outings, this conversation explores how connection is built in everyday life rather than expensive activities or perfect parenting. They also unpack research showing dads often report having more fun parenting than moms, and why modern family life can leave many parents feeling emotionally drained instead of connected. You’ll hear honest stories about raising teens, creating family rituals, protecting time together, balancing rules with warmth, and finding ways to stay close as kids grow into adults. This episode is for parents who want more laughter at home, stronger bonds with their children, and practical ways to create family memories without adding more pressure to an already full schedule. If you enjoyed this conversation, listen to our previous episode on having more fun with your kids and creating meaningful family moments. Homework Ideas Start a Family Group Chat Invite Your Child Into Everyday Tasks Leave Small Notes Add Music Into Chores Turn ordinary moments into shared memories. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 213. Are Phones and Social Media Making Teen Life Harder Than Ever? | 27 mai 2026 | 00:31:30 | |
This week on Parents of the Year, Dr. Caroline and Andrew are joined by their youngest daughter Willow for one of their most honest conversations yet. From social media stress to family rules that actually work, this episode pulls back the curtain on life with teens. Willow shares why she is now grateful she did not grow up with unrestricted social media, what she sees happening with friends online, and why consistency matters more than punishment. They talk about:
One of the most powerful moments comes when Willow talks about knowing the rules AND the reasons behind them. If you are raising teens or preparing for those years, this episode offers practical ideas, humour, and a refreshing look at what healthy family relationships can sound like. Homework Ideas Create One Non-Negotiable Phone Boundary Explain the “Why” Behind Rules Practice Calm Corrections Ask About Online Stress Without Judgement Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 212. How Do Parents Build Strong Readers Without Daily Battles? | 20 mai 2026 | 00:25:33 | |
In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackles a concern many are facing right now: how do you raise children who enjoy reading when screens compete for every second of attention? From bedtime stories and graphic novels to hockey intermissions with a book in hand, Andrew and Dr. Caroline share what worked in their own home raising readers. They talk honestly about screen dependency, why family reading habits matter, and how creating a calm reading space can change the rhythm of family life. You’ll hear practical ideas for children with ADHD, reluctant readers, teens who would rather scroll than sit with a book, and parents who struggle to model reading themselves. They also unpack why fiction builds empathy, why reading aloud still matters, and why “30 minutes a day” can make a massive difference in language development and emotional growth. This episode is packed with real stories, sharp humour, parenting truth bombs, and simple strategies families can start using tonight. Topics covered:
If your child says books are “boring,” this episode is for you. Homework Activities for Adults Supporting Children & Teens 2. Build a Reading Space Together 3. Pair Books with Entertainment 4. Start a “Commercial Break Reading” Habit 5. Replace One Hour of Weekend Screen Time Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 211. What's it like to parent an ADHD child (with an ADHD spouse)? | 13 mai 2026 | 00:30:22 | |
Dr. Caroline and her husband pull back the curtain on the chaos, comedy, frustration, and heart behind parenting in an ADHD household. From forgotten conversations and missed instructions to emotional overwhelm, impulsive comments, and the endless “Did you take your meds today?” jokes, this episode hits the realities many families live every day but rarely talk about out loud. They share honest stories about: The emotional shift after diagnosis Why medication changed their daughter’s confidence What “checking out” actually looks like in ADHD brains How open-ended questions work better than constant reminders The hidden exhaustion ADHD kids carry from years of correction and criticism Marriage dynamics when one partner’s brain works very differently There’s humor throughout, with vacuum cleaners abandoned in car trunks, disappearing attention spans, and entire family conversations happening in three different timelines, but underneath it is a real conversation about patience, support, and learning how to parent the child in front of you instead of the one you expected. This episode is for parents raising ADHD children, couples navigating neurodiverse relationships, teachers, caregivers, and anyone trying to better understand how ADHD affects family life. Homework Activities for Parents & Caregivers Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 210. What Do You Do When Your Kid Is the Problem? | 06 mai 2026 | 00:26:47 | |
When another parent pulls you aside and says your kid is the problem… what do you actually do? In this episode, Andrew and Caroline get real about one of the hardest parenting moments: facing the possibility that your child is the one causing harm. From playground conflicts to teen behaviour that crosses a line, they unpack why so many parents jump to defensiveness and what it costs our kids when we do. Through honest stories including Caroline’s own “my kid would never…” moment, they walk through how to stay grounded, gather the full story, and respond in a way that actually helps your child grow. You will hear practical ways to This episode is for parents who want to raise kids others trust, respect, and want to be around and who are willing to look inward to get there. Homework Activities for Parents Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 209. What should you say when you find out your child is self-harming? | 29 avr. 2026 | 00:26:37 | |
Non-suicidal self-injury is showing up earlier and more often than many expect, and most adults feel unprepared when it does. In this episode, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk openly about why kids hurt themselves without wanting to die, what it actually gives them, and why the usual reactions can make things worse. Caroline breaks down what’s happening in the brain when emotions feel too big to handle, why pain can feel like relief, and how social media is quietly amplifying the problem. You’ll hear what signs to watch for, how to respond without pushing your child away, and what to say when you don’t know what to say. This conversation also tackles common assumptions, including the idea that kids are “just looking for attention,” and replaces it with a clearer understanding of what’s really going on beneath the surface. If you want practical ways to keep communication open, support emotional regulation, and create a home where kids feel safe sharing hard things, this episode gives you a starting point that actually works in real life.
Build daily low-stakes connection Expand emotional vocabulary together Co-watch and audit social media Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 208. Who Is Your Child Actually Talking to Online? | 22 avr. 2026 | 00:19:59 | |
Roblox isn’t just a game—it’s one of the most active online spaces kids are spending time in right now. In this episode, Andrew and Caroline get real about what’s happening behind the screen. With over 150 million daily users—many under 13—this platform has become a digital playground where kids are interacting, spending money, and forming connections… sometimes with people they don’t actually know. They break down how features like chat and in-game currency (Robux) are being used to build trust, how conversations move off-platform, and how quickly things can shift from harmless to risky. You’ll also hear the uncomfortable truth many parents wrestle with—choosing convenience today while ignoring what it might cost later. If your child is gaming online, this episode will change how you think about supervision, boundaries, and your role in it.
Bring devices into shared spaces Turn off chat features No headphones during gameplay Check spending together Ask one simple question daily Watch for behaviour changes
Create your own account Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 207. What If Everything You’ve Heard About Microplastics Isn’t True? | 15 avr. 2026 | 00:35:44 | |
This episode pulls apart one of the biggest fears circulating among parents right now: plastics and microplastics. Andrew and Caroline sit down with scientist Dr. Chris DeArmitt, who has reviewed thousands of studies to separate what’s actually proven from what’s being repeated online. The conversation moves from social media backlash and parenting pressure to a deeper look at how fear spreads—and what the science actually says. You’ll hear why many widely shared claims about microplastics don’t hold up under scrutiny, how media messaging shapes what families worry about, and why some well-meaning environmental choices may have unintended consequences. There’s also a grounded discussion about parenting: how kids learn through consistent consequences, why follow-through matters more than lectures, and how small daily habits shape long-term behaviour. This episode is for parents who are tired of guessing, tired of conflicting advice, and ready to make calmer, more informed decisions for their families. About Dr. Chris DeArmitt Dr. Chris DeArmitt helps parents cut through the noise and fear surrounding plastics and microplastics by replacing sensationalism with evidence. He offers a cross-disciplinary view that helps families make smarter, lower-impact choices based on real science rather than common myths. Dr. DeArmitt is a Global Authority on Plastics, Microplastics, and the Environment. He is a Materials Scientist, Author, and Founder of the Plastics Research Council. List of books: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/15512220.Chris_DeArmitt Email - chris@phantoplastics.com website - https://plasticsresearchcouncil.com/ LInkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdearmitt/ 1. The “Follow-Through Test”
Resource: Simple tracker (notes app or printed chart) 2. The “Pause Before Panic” Habit
Resource: Bookmark 1–2 trusted science-based sources 3. Device-Free Micro Moments
Resource: Set phone to Do Not Disturb during that window 4. Praise What You Want Repeated
(“You waited your turn—that was respectful.”) 5. Family “Stuff Audit”
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 206. Are Screens Stealing Our Kids’ Motivation? | 08 avr. 2026 | 00:48:33 | |
What helps kids feel safe, motivated, proud, and ready to try hard things? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Matt Kaufman—camp director, author of The Campfire Effect, and lifelong summer camp leader—to talk about what camp gets so right about child development, belonging, and confidence. Matt breaks down five brain chemicals that shape how kids grow: oxytocin, dopamine, cortisol, serotonin, and endorphins. Andrew and Caroline explore how emotional safety comes first, why kids need meaningful goals, how managed stress helps them grow, and why joy and play matter far more than many families realize. You’ll hear practical ideas parents can use right away at home: simple rituals that build connection, better ways to praise kids, how to help children stretch outside their comfort zone, and why screens can make motivation and problem-solving harder for both kids and adults. This is a warm, funny, useful conversation about raising children who feel like they belong—and who believe they can do hard things. In this episode:
Perfect for parents of kids and teens who want to build resilience, belonging, motivation, and stronger family connection. About Matt Kaufman Connect with Matt:
1. Create one family ritual this week Pick one small moment you can repeat every day: a bedtime phrase, a goodbye hand squeeze, a six-second hug, or a check-in question at dinner. Purpose: build safety and connection 2. Practise “describe, label, praise” Catch your child doing something well and respond like this: Purpose: make praise specific so it actually sticks 3. Give your child one visible, reachable goal Choose a short-term goal they can see and finish: swim to the marker, order their own snack, make lunch twice this week, finish one chapter, or practise a skill for 10 minutes a day. Purpose: build earned dopamine through effort and progress
Ask them to speak to the cashier, call to book an appoint Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 205. Are We Putting Too Much Pressure on Kids to Perform? | 01 avr. 2026 | 00:44:52 | |
What helps kids learn, keep trying, and bounce back after a hard moment? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with educator, author, speaker, and chess coach Kevin Cripe to talk about what truly helps children thrive at school, in sports, and at home. With more than 27 years in education, Kevin shares what he learned from teaching in high-mobility classrooms, building an after-school chess programme for students from low-income communities, and helping kids grow through encouragement, challenge, and steady support. This conversation gets into why children learn better when they feel safe and relaxed, why praise for effort and improvement matters more than constant focus on results, and how parents can respond when kids lose, struggle, or shut down. Kevin also shares powerful stories from the classroom and from chess tournaments that show what can happen when adults stop pushing for perfection and start making room for growth. You’ll hear practical ideas for supporting children and teens through school stress, competition, mistakes, and self-doubt, plus a refreshing reminder that kids do better when they know they are valued no matter the outcome. In this episode, you’ll hear about:
About Kevin Cripe Kevin Cripe is a motivational speaker, author, and educator with more than 27 years of experience supporting students, teachers, and communities. As an elementary school teacher in Modesto City Schools, he created an after-school chess programme that changed the lives of hundreds of students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. His work centres on helping students succeed without frustration and building compassion across diverse communities. He has spoken internationally, including at the Innovative Schools Conference in Atlanta and the Chess in the Schools Conference in London. http://kevincripemotivationalspeaker.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.cripe.31 https://kevincripemotivationalspeaker.com/#books
Replace result-based praise with comments about persistence, courage, preparation, recovery, and trying again. Say:
Resource needed:
When your child loses, freezes, cries, or shuts down, do less talking. Sit nearby. Offer a hug if they want one. Let them settle before asking questions. Try:
Resource needed: Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 204. Are you ready for the conversations kids are already having? | 25 mars 2026 | 00:27:06 | |
When a child says, “This is who I am,” what does a supportive parent do next? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline take on a topic many families are trying to understand with more care and less fear: gender identity, sexual orientation, pronouns, transition, and the language kids and teens may be using right now. This conversation starts the way real parenting conversations often do — with jokes, peanut butter confessions, hummingbirds, and everyday life — then moves into something many parents are quietly wrestling with: how to respond when a child, teen, friend, teacher, or family member shares something personal about who they are. Caroline walks through key terms like cisgender, transgender, gender identity, gender expression, agender, bisexual, pansexual, Two-Spirit, transition, and more, using a resource called the Gender Unicorn and materials from Trans Student Educational Resources. Andrew brings the parent lens many listeners will relate to: wanting to be respectful, wanting to understand, and wanting to get it right without pretending to know everything. This episode is a reminder that kids do not need a perfect speech from us. They need openness. They need respect. They need adults who can pause, stay curious, and listen without shutting them down. If you’ve been trying to support a child or teen through questions around identity, or you want better language for conversations at home, this episode will help you start. In this episode:
1. Practise the pause When your child says something surprising, don’t rush to correct, debate, or explain. Take a breath and answer with calm interest. Try saying:
Resource needed:
Pick 10 terms from this episode and learn what they mean. Not to sound polished. Just to be less reactive and more informed. Start with: Resource needed:
3. Ask your child what respect looks like to them Not every child wants the same kind of support. Some want privacy. Some want language to help them talk. Some want you to use a different name or pronouns. Some just want you not to panic. Try asking:
Resource needed: 4. Notice your first reaction Write down what comes up for you: fear, grief, confusion, defensiveness, worry about influence, fear of judgement, concern about getting it wrong. Be honest. Your child does not need to carry that raw first reaction. Resource needed:
This came through strongly in the Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 203. How Do You Build a Village When You’re Raising Kids Far From Family? | 18 mars 2026 | 00:22:02 | |
How do parents build a village when they’re raising kids far from family? From neighbours and school families to sports teams, gyms, dog parks, and simple daily routines, they talk about how community is built in real life — not through grand gestures, but through small repeated moments. A wave across the street. A favour for a neighbour. A shared ride to practice. A standing dinner with friends. The kind of connection that grows slowly, then suddenly feels solid. They also get honest about how much family life has changed in Canada: smaller households, more distance from grandparents, more seniors living alone, and more parents trying to do it all without the built-in support previous generations often had. This episode is for parents who have moved away from home, feel isolated, or want to create stronger ties for their children and teens. It’s a grounded conversation about rebuilding community, modelling connection, and giving kids something every family needs: people they can count on. Listen in for practical ideas on:
Perfect for: parents of kids, tweens, and teens; families new to a city; parents dealing with loneliness; anyone trying to raise children with stronger community ties. Homework activities for adults to support children and teens, plus resources needed 1. Learn the names of five neighbours What to do: Why it helps kids and teens: Resources needed:
2. Start one repeat family routine in the community What to do: Why it helps kids and teens: Resources needed:
3. Offer one small favour to another family What to do: Why it helps kids and teens: Resources needed:
4. Create a parent contact circle What to do: Why it helps kids and teens: Resources needed:
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 202. Are screens speeding up adolescence and delaying independence? | 11 mars 2026 | 00:31:20 | |
A jar of peanut butter almost ends a marriage… and somehow becomes the perfect opener for a conversation about what’s happening to adolescence right now. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline unpack what ADHD expert Dr. Russell Barkley calls “early arrival, late departure”: kids hitting adult ideas sooner (thanks, screens) while independence shows up later (thanks, anxiety, money, and over-helping). They talk milestones that are fading (driving, first jobs, even babysitting), why “checklist parenting” can quietly shrink confidence, and what it looks like to raise teens who can handle inconvenience, criticism, and disappointment without melting down. You’ll leave with practical ways to step back without checking out: handing over real-life tasks (appointments, banking, transit), modelling purposeful phone use, and trying Stephen Covey’s “Green and Clean” method to build responsibility at home—without turning your house into a nag-fest. Keywords: parenting teens, adolescence, Gen Z, Gen Alpha, screen time, executive function, independence, ADHD, Russell Barkley, life skills, overparenting, helicopter parenting, snowplow parenting, “curling” parenting, rites of passage, resilience. Homework activities for adults (to support kids/teens) + resources Homework 1: The “Say it out loud” phone habit (7 days) Every time you pick up your phone near your kids, narrate your purpose in one sentence: Resource: create a note on your phone titled “Why I’m on my phone” with 6–8 common reasons so it’s easy to stick with. Homework 2: Hand over one real-world task this week Pick one:
Your job: be nearby, don’t do the talking, don’t grab the phone “to speed it up.” Resource: a simple script card in Notes:
Homework 3: Build frustration tolerance on purpose (tiny reps) Once this week, don’t rescue a minor inconvenience:
Aim for small stakes. The win is practice, not perfection. Resource: family phrase to repeat: “Try three ways, then ask.” Homework 4: “Green and Clean” at home (one job, one standard) Give one household job with a clear finish line. Resource: Stephen Covey “Green and Clean” — search YouTube: “Green and Clean Stephen Covey”. Homework 5: Create a rite of passage (low drama, high meaning) Pick a milestone you can bring back:
Make it a moment: a photo, a meal out, a small speech. Mark it. Resource: a one-page “Milestone Menu” list on the fridge with 10 options. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 201. Do You Know Who Your Child Is Talking to in Games and Group Chats? | 04 mars 2026 | 00:33:29 | |
In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Mashood Ahmed, founder and CEO of GigabitIQ (the UK’s safest broadband provider) and a dad of five, to talk about what’s really happening online: strangers in game chats, disappearing messages, school-issued devices that come home unfiltered, and why a bedroom can be riskier than the park. Mashood breaks down where parents get stuck—too many devices, too many apps, too many settings—and shares a simpler way to think about protection: start with a conversation, then add controls that actually work for real life. You’ll also hear about Parentline (parentline.ai), a free, multilingual tool built to help parents quickly figure out things like blocking TikTok, tightening Roblox settings, and creating safer home Wi-Fi rules without spending hours searching. If you want a practical reset for your family’s digital life—without panic, guilt, or tech overwhelm—press play. About Mashood Ahmad Mashood Ahmad is the founder and CEO of Gigabit IQ, a broadband innovator dedicated to creating safer digital homes for children and families. As a father of five, he understands the real and growing challenges parents face in navigating big tech, social media, and hidden online harms. He is a recognised champion for online safety within the UK broadband sector and works closely with policymakers to push for stronger national protections. Mashood also created ParentLine, an AI-powered guidance tool that helps parents understand and manage online risks with clarity and confidence. His work bridges technology, parenting, and public policy to ensure families are better supported in today’s hyperconnected world.
Homework 1: The 10-minute “Today Online” check-in (no interrogation) Do it: Ask one question at dinner or bedtime: Homework 2: Device + app inventory (15 minutes, one page) Do it: Write down every connected device your child uses (phone/tablet/laptop/console/smart TV). Under each: top 5 apps/games. Homework 3: One privacy reset together Do it: Pick one high-risk area and do it side-by-side (no surprise lock-downs).
Homework 4: Bedroom Wi-Fi rules (simple, clear) Do it: Decide your “where + when” rules for devices (charging station overnight, no headphones behind closed doors, door open during multiplayer, etc.). Homework 5: Use Parentline when you get stuck Do it: Ask Parentline a real question you’ve been avoiding: Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 200. Why are teens self-diagnosing on TikTok—and what should parents say? | 25 févr. 2026 | 00:34:48 | |
Peanut butter crumbs, a surprise lap dog, and a teen who’s meeting new people at bars… this episode starts like a sitcom and lands on a real parenting pressure point: when kids start wearing diagnoses like usernames. Andrew and Caroline talk about the “sick role” trend online—especially on short-form video—where teens self-diagnose, compare who has it worse, and sometimes copy symptoms they’ve seen on their feeds. They unpack what gets missed when labels become identity: loneliness, shaky self-worth, and a craving to feel noticed. You’ll hear why this trend can hurt kids who truly need support, why parents can’t treat siblings the same way, and what to say when your teen comes home convinced they have a specific disorder. There’s also a reminder worth writing on the fridge: some kids are just quirky. They don’t need a label—they need their people. And, in the meantime, you’re their people. Homework activities for adults
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 199. Are tracking apps making parents calmer—or more anxious? | 18 févr. 2026 | 00:35:39 | |
Tracking your kids can feel like “good parenting”… until it turns your home into a control room. In this Parents of the Year episode, Andrew and Caroline talk about why location-sharing and constant check-ins often backfire—especially as kids become teens and young adults. They unpack the real driver underneath most tracking habits: adult discomfort with uncertainty. You’ll hear how “just nice to know” can quietly turn into stress, distrust, and sneaky workarounds (hello, leaving the phone somewhere “safe”). Along the way, they share what actually keeps teens talking: conversations that aren’t about school, letting kids teach you their world (yes, even Formula 1), remembering the “small” details that matter to them, and owning it when you mess up. If you want more openness, less policing, and a relationship your teen actually uses (calls in the car, debriefs after school, mall trips by choice), this one’s for you. “Homework” activities for adults (to support kids + teens) 1) The “Not School” Daily Check-In (7 minutes) Once a day, ask one question that has nothing to do with grades, homework, or performance. Keep it light. Resource: print/write a small stack of dinner questions (they mention using a question box). Use index cards or a notes app. 2) Let Them Teach You Something (15 minutes, once a week) Pick one of their interests and let them lead. Your job is to be curious, not clever. Resource: a shared note called “Things I’m learning from you” where you jot down names, teams, inside jokes, friends, upcoming events. 3) The “Remember One Detail” Practice When they mention something that matters to them (a friend issue, a teacher they can’t stand, a social moment), write one line somewhere. Bring it up later. Resource: phone note with headings: Friends / School People / Interests / Upcoming. 4) Replace Tracking With a Simple Family Plan Instead of location monitoring, agree on a basic rhythm:
Resource: a shared family note or whiteboard titled “Today’s Plan.” 5) The Clean Apology (30 seconds) When you misread them, embarrass them, overreact, or “torpedo” your partner in front of the kids—own it fast. Resource: keep a reminder on your phone lock screen for a week: “Repair beats being right.” Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 198. How Do We Help Kids Feel Seen When Their Needs Look Different? | 11 févr. 2026 | 00:29:21 | |
What happens when a child feels invisible—and how can adults respond in a way that builds confidence, connection, and kindness? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Mark Perloe, a retired infertility physician turned children’s book author and grandfather, to talk about modern parenting through a grandparent’s lens. Mark shares the real family moments that inspired Milo’s Superpower, including sibling dynamics, screen struggles, emotional outbursts, and the quiet strengths that kids often carry unnoticed. This conversation covers raising children across generations, respecting parenting boundaries as grandparents, supporting kids with big emotions, and using humour as a lifelong skill. You’ll hear honest stories about neurodiversity questions, screen time tension, emotional regulation, and how shared experiences—not stuff—shape children long after childhood. Perfect for parents, grandparents, educators, and anyone raising or supporting kids today. About Mark Perloe Mark Perloe worked as a doctor specializing in IVF for 32 years. Now retired, Mark’s favorite thing to do is spend time with his two grandsons. He also enjoys spending time with his therapy dog, Andrew. The two of them travel all over to put smiles on people’s faces. He is thrilled to be writing his first children’s book! Homework Activities for Adults (Parents, Grandparents, Caregivers) 1. The Superpower Conversation Resource: Paper, markers, or notes app to write or draw their “superpower.” 2. Screen Swap Challenge (One Evening) Resource: A simple activity you already enjoy—no prep required. 3. Sibling Spotlight Resource: Timer on your phone. 4. Humour Reset Resource: Model it yourself first. 5. Memory Over Stuff Check-In Resource: Calendar for planning time together. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 197. Are you using ChatGPT for parenting… and is it helping or hooking you? | 04 févr. 2026 | 00:27:13 | |
Andrew and Caroline start this episode the same way many parents start a “normal” day: northern lights, a bank visit that ate two hours, and a reminder that adulting is its own full-time job. Then they try something parents are doing more and more—asking AI for parenting advice. They put a “nice British voice” to the test on real-life sticking points: kids refusing chores, screen-time blowups, bedtime anxiety, and the constant tug-of-war between boundaries and burnout. The advice isn’t wild… but the tone is the story. Why does AI feel so comforting? When does reassurance turn into a crutch? And what happens when “helpful” starts replacing your village? If you’ve ever Googled a parenting question at 2 a.m., this one will hit. Expect laughs, some blunt truth about consistency, and a practical way to use AI without handing it the keys to your home.
Homework 1: Pick one non-negotiable and make it boring
Try a prompt that forces clarity and reduces the cheerleading:
Resource: save that prompt as a note called “Parenting Prompt” so you don’t spiral-scroll when you’re stressed.
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 196. How do we teach critical thinking in a world of ChatGPT and Deepfakes? | 28 janv. 2026 | 00:41:10 | |
AI isn’t going away, and kids are already using it. So how do we protect their curiosity, critical thinking, and safety without panicking or burying our heads in the sand? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Caroline and Andrew sit down with English professor, game developer, and AI builder Jerry White to talk about kids, teens, AI, and critical thinking. Jerry has spent years teaching college students, building AI tools for his university, and helping his own son learn to use AI well. He brings that real-world classroom and parenting experience to this conversation. You’ll hear them unpack:
This episode is especially useful for anyone who want to help children and teens: · Build real critical thinking skills · Keep their own voice in their writing and ideas · Stay safer online in an AI-driven world · Use AI as a tool, not a replacement for their brain About Gerry White Gerry White is the Dean of Academic Technology at ECPI University and founder of MyTutorPlus, an AI-powered tutoring platform. With two decades at the intersection of education and technology, he creates innovative digital learning experiences, including apps and immersive AR/VR. Gerry writes and speaks about how AI reshapes education and culture, exploring its ethical and societal impacts with a balanced, thoughtful approach. His work equips educators, parents, and professionals with practical insights to navigate the evolving AI landscape while preserving critical thinking and humanity. Resource: https://gerrywhitebooks.com/ Get in touch https://www.instagram.com/the_gerry_white/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrywhitetech/ https://gerrywhite.tech/ https://www.youtube.com/@gerrywhite6197 Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 195. Why does work-life balance feel impossible when you work from home with kids? | 21 janv. 2026 | 00:29:51 | |
Working from home with kids in the mix can feel like you’re failing at two jobs at once. Andrew and Caroline get real about why “balance” is a trap, and why clear boundaries work better—at home and at work. They share what actually helped in their house (the red/green door system, kid-friendly “emergency rules,” and setting kids up with non-screen activities—yes, including the legendary cardboard pirate ship that took over an entire archway). You’ll also hear how Caroline plans work in 90-minute focus blocks, why email can wait, and why everyone needs pockets of nothing during the day—no phone, no noise, just a reset. If your calendar is packed, your attention is shredded, and you’re trying to parent without snapping, this episode gives you language, scripts, and practical setups you can try this week. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 194. What actually works when your child won’t get off the screen? | 14 janv. 2026 | 00:54:18 | |
Phones aren’t optional anymore—and that’s exactly why families feel stuck. In this Parents of the Year episode, Andrew and Caroline sit down with MJ Murray Vachon, a licensed clinical social worker with 40 years of practice to talk about what screen overuse is doing to stress, sleep, mood, and family connection. MJ shares a practical way to reset family phone habits that starts with adult leadership, not kid willpower. You’ll hear why “phone-free time” must be truly phone-free (not just “in the backpack”), how to set boundaries that don’t turn every night into a negotiation, and how to talk with kids about the science behind dopamine, cravings, and withdrawal-like irritability. They also cover what to do when a child pushes back hard, why checking a child’s phone should be treated like checking the family car, and how parents can team up with other families so you’re not the only one holding the line. If you’re looking for realistic strategies around screen time, phones, social media, and stress, this episode gives you language you can use today. Homework Ideas “Deepest desire” check-in (10 minutes, solo) Phone as supervised access (not ownership) Phone Use Awareness (for parents first) Check your screen time report for a full week. Note:
Create Phone-Free Blocks (ACT – C) Choose 1–2 daily blocks where all phones are away and out of reach (e.g., 5–7 pm, mealtimes, bedtime routine)
Take Phones Out of the Bedroom (ACT – T) Parents go first. Replace your phone with a basic alarm clock or a speaker for music/meditation if needed
Curate the Feed – “You Are What You Scroll” Together, pick 3–5 things you want more of in life (e.g., art, sport, nature, comedy).
Resources mentioned
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 193. How do you set goals kids actually want to work on? | 31 déc. 2025 | 00:28:53 | |
Stealing from a popular replay of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss goal setting with kids. Rather than assigning goals or correcting what isn’t working, this episode focuses on working with children to help them identify goals that actually feel meaningful to them. When kids have a say, they are far more likely to stay engaged and follow through. The discussion covers how parents can use what they already know about their children — their temperament, strengths, and challenges — to guide goal setting in a way that feels achievable, relevant, and motivating. Setting SMART Goals With Kids (Without Turning It Into a Battle) Step 1: Start With Reflection Before setting any new goals, take a few minutes to reflect together. Ask:
Step 2: Choose One Area to Focus On Start with a conversation. Ask what they want to get better at this year. Brainstorm ideas, keeping it open and pressure-free. Keep this small. One area is enough. Step 3: Turn It Into a SMART Goal S – Specific What exactly are we working on? “What does that look like when it’s happening?” M – Measurable How will we know it’s happening? “What would we see or hear if this was going well?” A – Achievable Is this realistic right now?“Does this feel doable, even on a tough day?” R – Relevant Why does this matter to you? “How will this help you at school or with friends?” T – Time-Bound What’s the time frame? “Should we try this for the next two weeks or for this month?” Example : “I will practice staying calm during homework by taking one break when I feel overwhelmed, at least three times a week for the next month.” Step 4: Create One Tiny Action Step Big goals fail when there’s no plan. Ask:
Step 5: Decide How You’ll Support Them This is where adults shift into the consultant role. Ask:
Let your child lead this decision. Step 6: Track Effort, Not Perfection Check in once a week (with curiosity rather than reminders or lectures). Focus on:
Celebrate effort, even when the outcome isn’t perfect. Write the SMART goal on a card or sticky note and keep it visible! Resources:
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 192. What Should You Say When Kids Ask About Santa? | 24 déc. 2025 | 00:15:38 | |
Should parents “tell the truth” about Santa… or keep the story going? In this Parents of the Year holiday episode, Andrew and Caroline unpack what kids actually need when they start questioning Santa, how to respond without shame or panic, and how to turn the moment into something that builds kindness, generosity, and family connection. They talk about following your child’s lead, keeping your tone warm and honest, and shifting the story from “Is Santa real?” to “What does Santa stand for—and how do we carry that forward?” Homework Ideas Prep your “Santa questions” script Be prepared so you don’t freeze:
Plan the “invite them in” transition (kids who are figuring it out) If your child is questioning or knows:
Santa job ideas: choose a toy donation, deliver treats to helpers, set out a surprise note, wrap one gift. Pick one “Santa = generosity” tradition
Goal: keep the meaning, not just the myth. If your kid asks directly: don’t over-talk Try:
Keep it short. Let them lead the pace. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 191. Overstimulated, Overwhelmed, and Over It: Emotion Regulation During the Holidays | 17 déc. 2025 | 00:35:56 | |
The holidays are supposed to be joyful—but for many families, they quietly amplify stress, overwhelm, and emotional reactivity. In this special crossover episode with Parents of the Year podcast, Dr. Caroline and her husband Andrew step away from “perfect holiday” pressure and take a psychologically grounded look at why emotions run hotter during the holidays, for both kids and adults. They explore how disrupted routines, sensory overload, social comparison, family dynamics, and unrealistic expectations tax the nervous system—and why emotional meltdowns, irritability, withdrawal, or disappointment are not signs of failure, but signals of dysregulation.This episode bridges emotion regulation science with real-life parenting moments. Rather than trying to make emotions disappear, this conversation focuses on helping families anticipate emotional needs, regulate proactively, and respond with intention instead of reactivity. Want to learn more about boosting resilience during the holidays? Check out these episodes: Holiday Stress? Here's How to Build Real Resilience (https://youtu.be/jXgq7dn-hR4) How can we nurture kids' emotional resilience during the holidays? (https://youtu.be/jXgq7dn-hR4) Homework Ideas Choose 2 Non-Negotiables + 2 Flexibles Do:
Build a Regulation Plan: Before / During / After Do: Create a 3-part plan:
Replacement Behaviours for Screen/Scroll Traps Do: Choose a replacement behaviour you’ll do instead of scrolling when stressed:
Set a phone boundary: “No social media before noon” or “10 minutes max, with a timer.” Set Expectations Explicitly Do: Ask:
Use “Let It Go vs. Address It” Sorting Do: Before gatherings, decide:
End-of-Day Debrief: 3–2–1 Reset Do (at bedtime or next morning): 3 things that went okay, 1 tweak for next time Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 190. How do we help kids tolerate boredom in a hyper-stimulating world? | 03 déc. 2025 | 00:21:44 | |
Boredom gets a bad reputation in modern parenting. Kids hate it, adults avoid it, and screens are always within reach to fill the quiet. In this Parents of the Year episode, Andrew and Caroline pull back the curtain on what boredom really does for kids’ brains—and for ours as adults. They talk honestly about ADHD, distress tolerance, screen overload, and why we don’t need to be our kids’ entertainment directors. You’ll hear:
Give kids space to explore, create, and figure stuff out—without a device in sight. Homework Ideas 🧩 Schedule “Alone Time” Blocks (for Kids and You) Pick one daily block (start with 15–30 minutes): · No screens · No parent entertainment · Kids are free to read, draw, build, daydream, play, or putter Tell them: “This is your time to figure out what to do. I’m not going to fill it.” For you: use that same block to do one simple thing without a device: · Make tea · Tidy a corner · Sit and stare out a window · Flip through a physical book 🧩 Do a “Screen Audit” of Hidden Moments For 1–2 days, notice when you automatically reach for your phone: · In the bathroom · While eating · While waiting in the car or pickup line · In bed at night or first thing in the morning Ask aloud: “Why am I picking up my phone right now? What do I actually need to do?” If it’s not essential, practice putting it down and just being there. This is exactly the skill we want kids to build. 🧩 Drive or Walk Without Audio Choose one of these and do it once or twice a week: · A drive with everything off—no podcast, no music, no audiobook · A walk without headphones or scrolling Notice: · How quickly you want to fill the silence · What thoughts pop up when your mind wanders · How your nervous system feels afterward Share that with your kids: “I drove in total quiet today. My brain really needed that break.” 🧩 Create a Helpful Space Set up a shelf, basket, or corner with non-screen options kids can choose from when they’re “bored”: · Simple craft supplies · Blank paper, markers, tape · Building materials · Puzzles or open-ended toys · A few books or magazines Your script when they say “I’m bored”: “Good. That’s your brain asking for something new. Go see what your brain can come up with.” 🧩 Protect Bedroom & Mealtimes from Phones Two high-impact rules you can talk about on the episode and in your notes: 1. No phones in kids’ bedrooms (and id Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 189. Does parental self-awareness matter more than parenting style? | 26 nov. 2025 | 00:25:56 | |
Andrew and Caroline discuss how much our own self-awareness as parents shape the way our kids turn out? From yelling regrets and chore battles this episode blends humour with honest reflection. They explore how everyday reactions, no matter how big or small, shape connection, resilience, and emotional safety. Listeners hear real examples of repair, frustration, boundaries, and the awkward but important skill of owning our mistakes. The message running through the conversation: parenting isn’t about perfection. What matters is noticing our reactions, understanding their impact, and showing kids what growth looks like in real time. Ideal for anyone looking for grounded, relatable conversations about emotional modeling, relationship repair, and realistic parenting. Homework Ideas Daily One-Minute Reflection Repair in Real Time “Pause and Separate” Strategy Identify Your Trigger Points Consistent, Clear Boundaries Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 188. Are we helping kids? Or making them helpless? | 19 nov. 2025 | 00:36:05 | |
Andrew and Caroline jump headfirst into one of the biggest pressures modern families face: the urge to hover, track, micromanage, and constantly correct. They unpack why today’s parents feel pulled into overprotecting, how it chips away at confidence, and why kids need room to stumble if they’re going to grow sturdy roots. With stories about tracking apps, school expectations, Velcro parenting, and the snowball effect of fear-driven parenting trends, this episode gives listeners a real look at how easy it is to slide into over-involvement without noticing. They bring humour, real family moments, and blunt honesty to questions many parents tiptoe around: Plus, they share practical ways to give kids responsibility, build independence, and let natural problem-solving kick in without abandoning age-appropriate safety. Perfect for anyone who want kids to grow strong, confident, and capable, without burning themselves out in the process. Homework Ideas The “No Correction” Week Responsibility Upgrade Delay Your Response Screen Boundary Reset Personal Reflection Optional Resources to Support the Work • A simple weekly planner for kids to organize responsibilities (If you want, I can produce any of these as downloadable PDFs.) Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 187. Are parents violating their kids’ privacy online? | 12 nov. 2025 | 00:32:05 | |
Oversharing Kids Online: Why “Sharenting” Hurts More Than It Helps Parents are posting more than ever—but at what cost to their children’s privacy, safety, and sense of self? In this episode, Andrew and Caroline tackle the growing issue of “sharenting:” the habit of sharing too much about kids online. From cute toddler photos to venting about behaviour problems, they explore how these seemingly harmless posts can lead to embarrassment, digital footprints kids never consented to, and long-term risks to self-esteem and identity. They unpack why parents overshare, what children actually think about it, and how to set healthy digital boundaries at home. With humour, honesty, and real-life examples, this episode invites everyone to rethink how we use technology and model online responsibility. Homework Ideas Audit your social media — scroll back through old posts and delete or archive anything that shares personal or potentially embarrassing info about your child. Family discussion: ask your kids how they feel about photos or stories shared about them. Give them veto power going forward. Define your “why” — before posting anything, pause and ask: Why am I sharing this? Who benefits? Create a private space — set up a small, closed photo-sharing album (like Google Photos, Cluster, or Family Album) for grandparents or close family. Replace online time with connection time — trade 15 minutes of scrolling for a walk, board game, or family check-in. Other ideas to protect your child's privacy:
Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 186. Can AI actually make parenting easier? | 05 nov. 2025 | 00:36:56 | |
In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Camille Jaramis, founder of Ask Yawn, the first parenting AI designed to cut through the chaos of parenting advice online. Camille shares how she and a team of parent-engineers built Ask Yawn to give exhausted parents quick, science-backed support—without the judgment or endless Googling at 3 a.m. They talk about how tech can help families, where it can cross the line, and why balance, privacy, and trust matter more than ever. From late-night baby sleep struggles to the ethics of AI, this episode is honest, relatable, and packed with aha moments for anyone raising kids in the digital age. It’s a conversation about parenting smarter, not harder, and remembering that connection always comes first. Homework fIdeas Audit Your Parenting Information Habits
Build a “Trusted Circle” of Resources
Create a “Screen-Free Parenting Zone” Set aside one daily block of time — even 15 minutes — where phones stay off and kids get your full attention. Notice how it changes connection and behaviour. Model Digital Balance for Kids Let your kids see you ask questions out loud or problem-solve without instantly reaching for a phone. It teaches patience, creativity, and self-trust. Protect Mental Health During Information Overload
📌 Resources:
About Camille Camille Jaramis is the founder of Ask Yawn, an AI-powered parenting companion designed to support families through the messy, beautiful, and often overwhelming early years of raising children. In addition, Camille built one of the world’s largest parenting communities on Facebook with more than 670,000 members, authored The Baby Sleep Manual, and co-hosted The Baby Sleep Training Podcast. She brings both her lived experience as a mother and her professional background in technology and organizational development to everything she creates. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||
| 185. How do parents keep kids safe without holding them back? (Special Recast Episode) | 29 oct. 2025 | 00:32:48 | |
With Halloween creeping up, Andrew and Caroline revisit one of their most memorable episodes: The night they tried to solve a mystery that still haunts their home: is their ensuite bathroom possessed… or just falling apart? (PS — the light actually did turn on in the middle of the night. You decide. 👀) But ghosts aside, this replay digs into something every parent wrestles with: How to keep kids safe without smothering their independence. They explore why our protective instincts sometimes do more harm than good, and how fear can quietly steer our parenting choices away from what helps kids grow confident and resilient. This episode is a timely reminder to check which fears belong to you, and which actually belong to your kids. Enjoy this spooky, insightful, and funny rewind! Homework Ideas Name your own fears. Let them try (and maybe fail). Practice “brave talk.” Reflect before reacting. Model courage out loud. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
| |||