The Whole Parent Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Show Notes:

Have you ever lashed out at your child and wondered "Where did that come from? Why am I so triggered?"

Spoiler for this episode, it's your childhood... and the reason we do this is because most of us are totally unaware of this unwanted inheritance.

Jon is joined by Dr. Shefali, the pioneer of conscious parenting, who shares her insights on how our childhood experiences shape our parenting styles. Together, they delve into the concept of the subconscious contract between parent and child, exploring how implicit memories and unresolved issues from our past often resurface in moments of stress.

Dr. Shefali emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and healing in parenting, offering practical advice on how parents can break free from harmful patterns and create a healthier environment for their children. 

The conversation touches on spirituality, neuroscience, and the essential role of self-awareness in raising emotionally healthy kids.

Timestamps:

• 0:00 - A Saturday morning meltdown: Jon’s story of losing his cool
• 2:43 - Introduction to Dr. Shefali and the concept of conscious parenting
• 7:57 - The power of implicit memories: How the past shapes our reactions
• 13:53 - The subconscious contract: Understanding toxic parenting dynamics
• 22:19 - Practical steps for conscious parenting and breaking the cycle

Resources Mentioned:

• The Conscious Parent 
• The Parenting Map 
• Dr. Shefali's Podcast

Join Dr. Shefali's Institute Cohort CLOSING 9/9/24

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Get the Autonomy Guide HERE

Episode Title: How To Get Your Toddler to LISTEN!

Episode Number: #29

Host: Jon @wholeparent

Timestamps:

• 0:00 - Introduction and Setting the Scene
• 0:38 - The Frustration of Kids who WON'T LISTEN!
• 2:40 - Why Toddlers Have Selective Hearing
• 7:17 - Understanding Toddler Development and Autonomy
• 16:18 - Effective Communication with Toddlers
• 22:24 - Tips for Improving Toddler Listening Skills
• 33:50 - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Key Takeaways:

• Toddlers often exhibit selective hearing due to their developmental stage of seeking autonomy.
• Consistent routines are crucial in helping toddlers feel secure and understand expectations.
• Effective communication with toddlers involves giving clear, positive instructions and allowing time for them to process.
• Saying "yes" as often as possible can foster a more cooperative relationship with your child.

Resources Mentioned:

• PDF on Autonomy-Seeking Activities for Toddlers
• How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

What episode should you listen to next?

• Episode #22: Raising Emotionally Intelligent Kids
• Episode #1: How to Stop Yelling at Your Kids

Call to Action:

• Never miss an episode! CLICK HERE to subscribe.
• Share this episode with friends or on social media.
• Rate and review the podcast to help it grow.

Contact Information:

• Follow Jon @wholeparent on all social media platforms.
• Email: podcast@wholeparentacademy.com

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The resource Jennifer mentioned:
Picky Eater Screener

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Have you ever felt like you're in a mealtime showdown with your toddler, armed with nothing but a spoon and the "wrong" color cup? Me too. Every day.

Today I'm joined by Jennifer Anderson of Kids Eat in Color to arm you with the strategies you need to turn mealtime battles into family building fun. We dissect the mystery behind toddler diets, discussing ways to make eating fun and how parents can lead by example to encourage adventurous food choices. This isn't just about getting peas onto their plate; it's about setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating.

Let's be real—feeding a picky eater can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded (where the colors change every meal). Jennifer and I get personal, sharing our own experiences with the challenges of nurturing diverse palates. We tackle the rainbow of eating behaviors from choosy to chowhound and offer a fresh perspective on introducing new foods. This chat goes beyond the plate, delving into how to build a positive body relationship with your kids, ensuring they grow up with confidence in their food choices and themselves.

Forget what you've heard about sugar and hyperactivity, or the myths that red dye is the root of all meltdowns. We're here to debunk these and other common misconceptions about kids' diets. Plus, we're dishing out practical tips like using micro portions and engaging kids in meal prep to encourage a more varied diet. By the end of our conversation, you'll have a toolkit filled with strategies to support your child in developing a healthy, resilient relationship with food—one joyful bite at a time. Join us on this culinary adventure and watch your little ones flourish into wholehearted, healthy eaters.

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Click Here to listen to Why Kids Lie: Part 1

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As a parent, confronting the uncomfortable truth of a child's lie can be a heart-wrenching moment. On today's Whole Parent Podcast, we delve into the delicate balance of handling such revelations with empathy and understanding. Our conversation is grounded in personal experiences and the gentle wisdom of Fred Rogers, offering a guiding light to navigate through these parenting waters. From a tale of suspected stealing to the crucial steps of addressing mistakes, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of fostering honesty and growth in our little ones.

Parenting is an art form, and just like any artist, we must learn from each brushstroke, each mistake. This episode provides a three-step process for responding to children's slip-ups in a way that builds trust and encourages learning. We tackle the intricate dance of communication, where curiosity leads and judgment takes a backseat, allowing our children to feel empowered rather than shamed. Role reversal becomes a tool, not just for understanding our kids but also for teaching them the value of empathy in their own interactions.

Lastly, we broach the complex issue of theft, emphasizing the need for ethical conversations from the sandbox to the courtroom. By engaging our children in discussions about morality, we prepare them for the larger stage of life where right and wrong are often shades of gray. It's here, through non-judgmental dialogue and positive assumptions, that we lay the foundations for a future of ethical decision-makers. Join us on this journey of parenting with purpose, and don't forget to subscribe for more insights that strengthen our resolve and confidence as the sculptors of tomorrow's adults.

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Kid's lie. There are so many reasons kids lie and probably the most UNLIKELY one is the one most parent's believe.
 
Our latest episode peels back the layers of childhood dishonesty, offering a comforting guide for parents grappling with their three-year-old's first ventures into untruths. We kick off with a candid look at the developmental milestones of toddlers, revealing why expecting unwavering honesty from someone still mastering the art of language and emotion is a step too far. I share practical advice for addressing your child's fibs about everyday tasks like bathroom use or teeth brushing, striking a balance between teaching right from wrong and understanding their stage of growth.

Navigating the complex path towards raising honest kids, this episode underlines the vital role of autonomy. Discover how empowering your child's sense of agency through challenges like constructing intricate Lego masterpieces can actually steer them away from the need to lie. We dive into the nitty-gritty of fostering positive independence, celebrating our kids' triumphs, and knowing when to step back and let them revel in their own achievements. It's about nurturing their growth without inadvertently pushing them towards dishonesty in a quest to please us.

And for those with children in the imaginative whirlwind of five to seven years, rest assured, your little one's fairy-tale narratives are a healthy part of their development. We explore how their vibrant imaginations bolster critical thinking skills essential for both current problem-solving and future success. So, before you correct your little one's next adventurous story, tune in to understand why their creative fabrications might just be a stepping stone to brilliance. 

Our journey doesn't end here, though; keep an ear out for our next episode, where we'll explore why older children may opt to weave a web of lies to sidestep consequences, completing our nuanced look at this integral part of growing up.

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https://thedadedge.com/

When your past knocks on the door unexpectedly after 18 years, you realize that fatherhood isn't just a role—it's a journey full of profound discoveries. 

This realization comes to life in my heartfelt sit-down with Larry Hagner from the Dad Edge podcast. We peel back the layers of what it means to be an active, engaged parent, touching on everything from the transformative effects of a standing desk to the emotional rollercoasters tied to our own childhood stories. 

As a father to four boys and a husband for over two decades, Larry brings a wealth of experience and insight into the art of communication and the power of vulnerability within family relationships. 

We share tales from our personal lives, revealing how past pains, like dealing with an absent father or the trials within stepfamilies, have sculpted our approaches to parenthood. It's a conversation that traverses the peaks and valleys of raising kids and nurturing a marriage, all while continuously growing as individuals.

The promises we make as parents and the effort it takes to fulfill them are the pillars of this episode. I get real about the intricacies of discipline, the commitment to creating a loving environment, and the intentional raising of emotionally intelligent boys. We discuss the importance of setting boundaries while also being a beacon of safety and guidance. 

These stories and advice are woven into a rich tapestry that reflects the enduring impact of fatherhood on personal growth and the legacies we build for our children. 

Join us for a discussion that's not just about parenting but about the essence of manhood and the indelible marks we leave on those we love.

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Ever found yourself perplexed by your child's seemingly endless quest for attention? We're peeling back the layers on why kids clamor for the spotlight and how you might be contributing to it without even realizing it. Tap into a wealth of compassion-fueled insights and practical strategies as we tackle the myth that ignoring attention-seeking behaviors is the best route. From the seven-year-old who can’t play alone to understanding the unique needs of children with ADHD, discover how to guide your little ones towards healthy, independent connections.

Remember the times when a simple hug could make everything better? That's the power of targeted, reassuring love we're advocating for in today's conversation. I'm drawing from my own journey as a parent with ADHD to share the kind of attention that enriches the parent-child bond and caters to neurodivergent children. You'll hear not just theories, but real-life applications that can turn around your child's playtime blues and bolster their emotional resilience.

Wrapping things up, we're not just talking about managing attention-seeking antics; we're building a foundation for our children's future. 

Listen to heartwarming stories, like the one about my own son, that illustrate the triumphs of nurturing our kids' independence within a supportive framework. And yes, we're fostering frustration tolerance, but not at the expense of our relationship with our children. This is your roadmap to raising well-adjusted kids who know their emotional needs are just as important as their physical ones. 

Join us, and let's navigate this parenting adventure together.

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Struggling with sibling rivalry? Learn effective ways to foster harmony and connection among your children.

Episode Number:

Description: In this episode of the Whole Parent Podcast, Jon tackles the topic of sibling relationships and how to navigate common challenges. Whether it's dealing with sibling rivalry, sharing space and toys, or finding activities that all your kids can enjoy together, Jon offers practical advice and answers listener questions to help create a more peaceful and connected family dynamic.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction & The Challenge of Sibling Rivalry
00:43 - Overview: Parenting Siblings Better
02:23 - Ashley’s Question: Newborn and Older Sibling Dynamics
13:35 - Steven’s Question: Shared Space and Toy Conflicts
23:49 - Kimberly’s Question: Activities for Kids of Different Ages

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Sibling Rivalry:
  • Sibling rivalry is natural and often stems from a need for attention and connection.
  • Individual, targeted attention for each child can significantly reduce rivalry.
• Effective Strategies:
  • Provide special attention to each child during key times of the day.
  • Schedule one-on-one time with each child to strengthen individual bonds.
  • Encourage open-ended play to foster creativity and cooperation.
• Managing Shared Spaces and Belongings:
  • Allow children to have personal items that are off-limits to siblings.
  • Use communal rules for shared toys and spaces to prevent conflicts.
• Balancing Activities for Different Ages:
  • Choose activities that are open-ended and allow each child to participate at their level.
  • Avoid competitive activities that can lead to resentment and frustration.

Links to Resources Mentioned:

• The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
• Siblings Without Rivalry

What episode should you listen to next?

• Effective Discipline Without Punishment
• Understanding Your Child's Brain

How to Connect:

• Never Miss a New Episode: CLICK HERE
• Subscribe: If you haven't subscribed to the podcast yet, please do so on your preferred platform.
• Rate and Review: Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Share: Share this episode with friends and family, especially those who struggle with sibling rivalry.

Episode Transcript: The full transcript of this episode is available here.

Connect with Whole Parent:

• Email: podcast@wholeparentacademy.com
• Social Media Links:
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  • TikTok: @wholeparent

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Conquering Bedtime Battles

Every parent has felt that tug at their heartstrings when they have to leave a child who's clinging to them, pleading for just one more hug. That's the moment you wish you had a magic wand to ease those tears and fears. 

Join me as I guide you through the emotional landscape of separation anxiety in children, exploring its nuances across ages two, three, and six. We'll unwrap the layers of this complex issue, offering a blend of professional expertise and personal experiences that will arm you with strategies to help your child build security and independence.

You'll discover that the delicate balance between fostering resilience and providing comfort isn't just about toughing it out or giving in—it's about the dance of attachment and development. We discuss the importance of the non-preferred parent's role, the power of comfort objects, and the gradual exercises you can employ to strengthen your child’s coping skills. 

These are the small, achievable victories that can lead to big changes, and we'll explore how to create these opportunities within the rhythm of your everyday life.

As we round out this heartfelt conversation, we'll focus on the importance of establishing a solid foundation for your child's emotional well-being. From the reassuring rituals that cement secure attachments, to innovative techniques like role-play and 'yes and parenting,' we'll cover methods to validate and reassure your child through transitions. 

And for families navigating the complexities of divorce or simply day-to-day goodbyes, we provide guidance to ensure your child feels the stability and love needed to thrive. So, whether your little one clings to your leg or waves goodbye with confidence, this episode is your companion in nurturing their growth every step of the way.

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Click here to purchase Eli's Attachment Workbook
 
Attachmentnerd.com

This episode promises to enrich your parenting toolkit with the insightful wisdom of Eli Harwood (@attachmentnerd), a seasoned therapist and mother of three, who joins me to unravel the complexities of creating secure attachments with our kids. Together, we walk you through the transformative journey of recognizing and meeting the emotional needs of your little ones, while also acknowledging the importance of addressing our own unhealed wounds to prevent passing on insecurities.

We talk:

• "Three steps" to secure attachment
• How to identify attachment in kids 
• How to connect deeply in a few minutes a day

This conversation sheds light on the symphony of synchronicity, where each shared moment of joy and curiosity lays another brick in the foundation of a lasting bond. We discuss the poignant idea of 'withness' and how being emotionally present during the highs and lows of your child's life can create a deep-seated sense of security. As we share  personal experiences, we celebrate the diversity of attachment-rich play and emphasize the supportive role a community plays in extending this security beyond the immediate family.

Navigating the ebbs and flows of parenting, we close with an exploration of the potent role of conflict and vulnerability in strengthening our connections with our children. 

Eli discusses how therapy work has shifted her perspective from viewing discord as a source of anxiety to seeing it as a gateway to intimacy and growth. This episode invites you to consider the ways in which we can provide our children with a legacy of secure attachment by being emotionally grounded, available, and receptive to their needs. 

So, join us as we guide you through the dance of parenting, equipping you with the insights to ensure your children feel nothing but love and stability in your embrace.

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