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:

• Non-negotiables (examples): “We don’t do three houses in one day,” “We eat before we go,” “We leave by 7:30.”
• Flexibles: “Which movie?” “Which dessert?” “When we open gifts (within a window).”
• Share it with your child/teen (and any other adults involved) before the big day.

Build a Regulation Plan: Before / During / After

Do: Create a 3-part plan:

• Before: sleep, food, hydration, quiet time, predict the tough moments
• During: micro-breaks, movement, sensory supports, time limits
• After: decompression time, low-demand evening, early bedtime when possible

Replacement Behaviours for Screen/Scroll Traps

Do: Choose a replacement behaviour you’ll do instead of scrolling when stressed:

• 5-minute walk
• short stretch
• text one friend directly (real connection)

 Set a phone boundary: “No social media before noon” or “10 minutes max, with a timer.”

Set Expectations Explicitly 

Do: Ask:

• “What are you most excited about—specifically?”
• “What would make the day feel like a win?”
• Then set realistic anchors:
  • one meaningful moment
  • one active thing
  • one connection point

Use “Let It Go vs. Address It” Sorting 

Do: Before gatherings, decide:

• 2 things you’ll let go (minor irritations)
• 1 thing you’ll address if needed (a true boundary)
• Use a short phrase to hold it:
  • “Not today.”
  • “That’s not up for discussion.”
  • “We’re keeping it simple this year.”

End-of-Day Debrief: 3–2–1 Reset

Do (at bedtime or next morning): 3 things that went okay, 1 tweak for next time

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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:

• Why using AI as a ghostwriter can quietly erode learning and memory
• How freewriting and “thinking on paper” before asking AI can protect kids’ brains
• Practical ways to use tools like ChatGPT and mind-mapping apps without letting them become a crutch
• How attention spans and learning styles have shifted with social media and constant tech
• What educators can change right now: assignments, discussion boards, and assessment
• Deepfakes, Character.ai, Roblox, and other risks parents and schools need to know about
• Why parents must start using AI themselves to guide their kids safely

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 

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline dig into the rise of AI and how it’s reshaping our daily lives, relationships, and even parenting. 

From the clickbait story of a marriage ending “because of ChatGPT,” to the quiet ways technology chips away at memory, empathy, and connection, this conversation is equal parts cautionary and practical. They explore how AI can be a helpful tool—but also why it should never replace genuine human interaction. 

Most importantly, they share how families can protect their relationships, model authentic communication, and return to the simple, everyday gestures that build trust and love.

Homework Activities for Adults

Tech-Free Check-In: Schedule a weekly family or partner debrief—share the good, the hard, and what support you need. Phones off.

Face-to-Face First: Swap texting with short calls when possible, and encourage kids to practice real conversations.

Connection Rituals: Create small rituals (morning walks, after-school tea, family dinners) that strengthen bonds.

Memory Workout: Use paper maps, cook without recipes, or play memory games to keep cognitive skills sharp.

Relationship Roots: Bring back “early courtship” habits—small notes, thoughtful gestures, shared jokes—that keep love alive.

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this discussion next week!

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

About Kathryne Imabayashi

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

Achievements

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

 Where to find Kathryne

 Email: sonhoodcoaching@gmail.com

Website:: sonhoodcoaching.com

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

So what do we do? 

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

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

Enjoy!

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

About Dr. Christina Fontana

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

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

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

Check out this free resource from Christina! 

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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


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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Be sure to check out these resources;

• Workbook: Respected and Connected: Tools and insights for creating healthy, collaborative relationships (https://amzn.to/47ndU63)

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

Enjoy!

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Parenting expert and therapist Todd Sarner joins Andrew and Caroline to unpack what it really means to guide children without shame or punishment. 

From his 20+ years of experience, Todd outlines the three pillars of proactive parenting: strengthening attachment and connection, creating a rhythm and environment that supports kids, and teaching natural consequences without shame. 

Together, they explore how separation anxiety shows up at bedtime, mornings, and school transitions, and why “collect before you direct” can change everything. This episode gives parents practical tools to reduce power struggles, hold boundaries with empathy, and raise resilient, emotionally secure kids. 

Homework Ideas 

Collect Before You Direct: Practice greeting your child warmly (eye contact, smile, touch) before asking them to do something. 

Bridging Practice: At goodbyes (bedtime, school drop-off), give your child a clear picture of when and how you’ll reconnect (“I’ll see you in two sleeps” / “When you get home, I’ll have a snack waiting for you”). 

Reset Routine: If family rules and follow-through feel inconsistent, hold a “reset” talk with your child: acknowledge the inconsistency, clarify expectations, and explain what will happen moving forward. 

Matter-of-Fact Consequences: Next time you enforce a limit, do it calmly and without shame — like Columbo, keep it simple, warm, and firm. 

Empathy Check: After holding a boundary, add empathy: “I know this is hard. I love you, and I’ll be here when you’re ready.” 

Recommended Resources: 

• Hold On to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Mate
• Parenting with Love and Logic by Charles Fay & Foster Cline 
• Parenting Teens with Love and Logic by Charles Fay & Foster Cline 

About Todd

Todd Sarner is a parenting coach and psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping families turn daily power struggles and emotional chaos into connection, calm, and cooperation at home. His work is grounded in attachment science and practical psychology, with a focus on giving parents real-world tools that actually work—especially when emotions are high and patience is low. Todd was an original intern of renowned developmental psychologist Dr. Gordon Neufeld and later served as a Faculty Member of the Neufeld Institute, where he trained professionals in attachment-based approaches to parenting.

www.transformativeparenting.com 

www.masterclassforparents.com

www.facebook.com/tparenting 

www.instagram.com/tparenting 

www.x.com/tparenting 

www.linkedin.com/in/toddsarner/

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

About Meghan

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

About Donna Fields

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

Along with these other resources:

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

When should parents step in and request a teacher change for their child?

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline break down one of the most difficult decisions many families face: advocating for a classroom change. 

They share their own recent personal experience navigating a challenging teacher-student dynamic that left their child anxious, tearful, and resistant to school.

Together, they explore:

• The difference between normal classroom struggles vs. true red flags.
• Why “not having friends in class” isn’t enough of a reason.
• How to tell when your child’s learning and emotional well-being are at risk.
• Practical steps for approaching school administrators with confidence and clarity.
• The importance of balancing resilience with advocacy.

Whether you’re a parent currently struggling with this decision, or simply preparing for the “what if,” this candid conversation will leave you better equipped to support your child while maintaining healthy partnerships with teachers and schools.

If you're thinking of making a request: 

• Reflect on Your Child’s Situation: Write down concrete examples of your child’s school experiences (e.g., emotional distress, avoidance, patterns of conflict). Separate opinion from observable facts.
• Debrief with Your Child: Have a calm conversation asking open-ended questions (“How do you feel in this class?” “What makes it hard?”). Avoid immediately offering solutions.
• Assess Severity: Distinguish between everyday discomfort (not being with friends, occasional teasing) and serious concerns (consistent bullying, ongoing tears, refusal to learn).
• Plan Your Approach: Draft an email or talking points for administrators that include specific examples instead of general complaints.
• Collaborate First: List at least 3 questions you’ll ask the teacher to understand their perspective and strategies before requesting any changes.

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Enjoy!

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

College debt can haunt young adults and their parents for decades—but it doesn’t have to. 

Today on Parents of the Year, Shellee Howard, founder of University Ready and author of How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money, joins Andrew and Caroline to share her practical, proven strategies for helping kids graduate debt-free. 

From strategic college tours and early family conversations about money to leveraging scholarships, community service, leadership, and international education opportunities, Shellee shows how intentional planning can transform college from a financial nightmare into an exciting, affordable opportunity. 

Homework Ideas:

• Early Exposure & Conversations: Visit colleges informally whenever travelling (even just walking around campus). Start casual, pressure-free conversations about college from a young age, focusing on growth and experiences, not just academics.
• Family Money Conversations: Discuss openly what college means financially for your family. Have teens research tuition, scholarships, cost of living, and expected salaries for careers they’re interested in. AND, prioritize early where to spend and save money. 
• Identify Scholarship Opportunities: Help your child identify their strongest skills (academic, leadership, sports, community service). Create a list of scholarship opportunities aligned to these strengths.
• Virtual College Tours: Use virtual tour apps to explore international universities early without cost. Identify top schools and consider a real-life visit only if they’re seriously interested or concerned about safety.
• Plan B & C Strategy Session: With your child, create multiple backup plans for college choices, scholarships, and financial options. Include scenarios like injury, job loss, or other unexpected events to teach realistic, flexible thinking.

About Shellee Howard

Shellee Howard is the founder of College Ready and a Certified Educational Consultant who helps high-achieving families send their kids to college without debt. With over 17 years of experience and four debt-free college grads of her own, she specializes in guiding complex teens toward top-tier schools with a personalized, strategic approach. Her proven Stand Out Strategy™ aligns academics, emotional readiness, and financial planning to turn college confusion into clarity. 

Podfolio Link: podfol.io/profile/shellee-howard 

Website: www.collegereadyplan.com 

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parents-is-your-teen-college-ready/id1622261244

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shelleehoward

Instagram: www.instagram.com/collegereadyplan 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/CollegeReadyPlan 

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@collegereadyplan 

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

 Bullying is unacceptable and needs to be stopped immediately. 

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline unpack the trending term "FAFO parenting" (F*@$% around and find out). They break down the difference between logical and natural consequences and why using threats or shame in the name of "teaching lessons" misses the mark.

This conversation dives into the importance of empathy, how to raise kids who think for themselves, and why it's not your job to micromanage—but also not your job to set them up for failure. You'll hear personal examples, parenting slip-ups, and real moments that matter in teaching kids how to handle life while keeping the relationship strong.

Homework Ideas:

• Open-ended questions: Instead of "Put your coat on," ask, "What’s the weather like today? What do you think you should wear?"
• Natural consequence check: Pause before you intervene. Is this dangerous? If not, let the situation teach the lesson.
• Empathy over ego: When your kid says, "I'm freezing," drop the "I told you so." Say, "Yeah, that sucks." Then circle back tomorrow: "What did you learn from yesterday?"
• Homework ownership: Don’t track assignments. Let them face the teacher, not your nagging.
• Food prep independence: Ask weekly: "What do you need for lunches/snacks this week?" Let them plan and pack.

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

Enjoy!

 

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

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

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

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

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

Enjoy!

Send us Fan Mail

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! 

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! 

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and 
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526