Raised Resilient: Practical, Empowering & Respectful Parenting Support

After a much longer break than I planned, Raised Resilient with Dr. Hilary is back! Moving forward, my focus is going to be on helping you parent your highly sensitive / deeply feeling / emotionally intense child effectively.   In this week's episode, I share five not-so-obvious signs that may indicate your child is highly sensitive and help you understand why highly sensitive children often present in these ways.   Here's the thing: Recognizing these signs of high sensitivity in your child is key to parenting them effectively, helping them thrive emotionally, and building resilience. And if you're still not sure, click the link below to take my FREE quiz!   FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough   Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz   Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

I can't believe it's been almost *exactly* a year and a half since I started this podcast. It's been an absolute honor & a super fun adventure so far. And honestly, I'm really proud of the fact that I've delivered a new episode every Wednesday morning without fail for 18 straight months while raising 3 kids and running a therapy practice!   In this week's episode, I share why I'm taking a short break from podcasting, when I'll be returning, what exciting things you can expect from this show once I return, and why taking a break is sometimes the most important thing we can do.   Here's the thing: Sometimes we need to slow down in order to speed up, and that's exactly what this break is allowing me to do. I'll miss being here with you these next few weeks, but I cannot wait to come back refreshed & ready to share some exciting new episodes and adventures with you!   FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough NEW Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

As busy parents, we're all trying to fit in self-care around the 24/7 job of caring for our kids. It's not easy, and sometimes it can even feel impossible to make time for things like exercise when you're raising little kids.    In this week's episode, I talk with Lauren Chante – wellness strategist, former celebrity personal trainer, and mom of 3 – about how you can ensure that you move your body each day, even if you feel like you have zero time and no childcare.   Here's the thing: We can't care for others if we're not taking care of ourselves. As busy parents, we absolutely have to find ways to prioritize ourselves, and after listening to today's episode, you'll have practical ideas for making your fitness a priority (without spending hours in the gym or having to have childcare).   Lauren's website: http://www.laurenchante.com FREE “Mindset Makeover” Breakthrough Call with Lauren: http://www.laurenchante.com/breakthrough FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough NEW Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Kindergarten readiness has become a whole thing. There are flash cards, online programs, and books all designed to ensure that your child is ready for kindergarten (and the messaging is that you should get started pretty much as soon as your kid can walk). It's enough to make your head spin!   In this week's episode, I tell you why you actually don't need books, programs, or flash cards – and I share 3 things you DO want to focus on during the toddler and preschool years to ensure that your child is truly ready when it's time to start kindergarten.   Here's the thing: Most of what your child needs to be “kindergarten ready” is happening naturally through play and exploration. After listening to today's episode, you'll know exactly how you can support these already-unfolding processes (and what you can stop worrying about!).   FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough   NEW Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Most parents dread the inevitable “I'm bored” from our kids. Those words can conjure up feelings of guilt for us as parents, and we might feel compelled to jump in and suggest a list of activities or organize a craft or put on a movie.   In this week's episode, I share four reasons why you should resist the urge to jump in and instead just let your child be bored. I also talk about how to hold space for the discomfort of boredom and how to support your child through it.    Here's the thing: Boredom is – despite the discomfort it brings! – actually a good thing! Kids need to feel bored sometimes, and after listening to this week's episode, you'll know why that's true, and you'll also have a game plan for the next time your child is bored.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

As parents, we all want our kids to be comfortable with independent play – but how do we actually get there, especially if your child is resistant to the idea of playing alone?   In this week's episode, I share four tips to help you encourage your child to play independently more often and for longer. This is a wonderful thing, not only because it's exactly what your child needs for healthy development – but also because it gives you a much-needed and well-deserved break!    Here's the thing: Kids need independent play, but sometimes it can take some getting used to, especially at first. After listening to today's episode you'll feel ready to support your child in playing alone more often and for longer!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Traveling with kids can be amazing … but it can also be stressful. Long car rides, plane trips with strangers, schedule changes, busy days, and later bedtimes can spell challenges, especially with toddlers and preschoolers.    In this week's episode, I share five tips to make your next family trip feel less stressful and flow more smoothly. I talk about how to prepare yourself and your child – and how to shift your mindset so that even hard moments don't feel quite so hard.   Here's the thing: Family trips can be exciting and full of amazing memories, and with a little planning and the right mindset, you'll be able to enjoy traveling with your kids (almost!) as much as a child-free vacation.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Getting kids outside is truly magical. Fresh air can calm a fussy baby, support emotion regulation, and provide the context change you need on a long day of parenting. And letting kids explore the outdoors *without* structured activities has SO many benefits!   In this week's episode, I talk with Allana Robinson – registered Early Childhood Educator and Developmental Specialist – about the many benefits of unstructured, independent outdoor play. We cover the logistics of getting kids outside (including weather & safety concerns), how to embrace unstructured outdoor exploration, and why it's so important to let your child play outside as often as possible.   Here's the thing: Outdoor play is amazing for children's growth, development, and learning – and the less we intervene & structure our children's outdoor adventures, the better.    Allana's website: https://www.allanarobinson.com   Get Them Outside course: https://www.allanarobinson.com/outdoors/   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Summer is here (in the northern hemisphere at least!), and for a lot of families, summer means swimming! But we can't talk about water play without also talking about water safety. It's not fun to think about, but drowning is the leading cause of death for children 4 and under – so it's really important that parents know how to keep kids safe in & around water.   In this week's episode, I share my family's story – the reason I'm so passionate about water safety. I also share 5 tips to help you keep your child safe in the water this summer.  Here's the thing: Thinking about water accidents can feel scary, but there's actually a lot we can do as parents to keep our kids safe. I hope this episode feels empowering to you and you feel ready to be around water safely with your child after listening!    Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) Find an Instructor Near You: https://www.infantswim.com/lessons/isr-lessons.html   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

We all want our kids to feel safe coming to us when they're struggling. We want them to talk to us about their problems, tell us how they're feeling, and generally keep us up to date on their lives. But how do we create the sort of parent-child relationship where our kids feel safe sharing even the hard stuff with us?    In this week's episode, I answer a listener who's wondering exactly this, particularly as her pre-teen sons inch closer to adolescence. I uncover the single most important thing we can do to foster a relationship where our kids feel safe sharing even the hard stuff with us – and I share my 5 tips for becoming the kind of listener that will keep your child talking to you, even about the hard stuff.   Here's the thing: Our kids need us, especially when they're struggling. But sometimes as parents we inadvertently do things that make our kids feel hesitant or even unsafe sharing tough stuff with us. After listening to today's episode, you'll know exactly how to listen so your child will feel comfortable talking!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

What should you do when your child comes home from school and tells you that her “best” friend ignored her today? Or that his long-time buddy said unkind things to him? Or that nobody wanted to play with them during recess? These are tough moments for parents; we often want to step in and fix the situation – but there's a more helpful way to respond.   In this week's episode, I answer a listener struggling with how to best support her 7-year-old daughter, who has a friend who's kind one day and mean the next. I dive into how we can best support our kids through difficult friendship dynamics – and I share the one thing we should NOT do if we want our kids to keep talking to us about their friendships.   Here's the thing: Each and every friendship our child has is a learning experience. When our kids tell us about their friendships and we offer our support – instead of advice, ultimatums, or solutions – our kids will have the space to notice (in their own bodies!) how different friendships feel. Only then can they truly decide which friendships to keep and which ones to let go.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Parenting is legit the hardest job we'll ever do … and it's almost impossible to show up to parenting the way we want to if we're not prioritizing ourselves & our own wellness. But how do we do this in the midst of the busyness of raising kids?   In this week's episode, I talk with naturopathic medicine doctor and women's hormone expert Dr. Brooke Kalanick about how to figure out your priorities, how to balance parenting and other parts of your life, and how to know when your hormones are out of balance (it's easier than you might think!) and what to do about it.   Here's the thing: Taking care of ourselves IS taking care of our families, and in order to truly care for ourselves and our families, we have to take on some necessary stress. The key to living in balance is having an understanding of your priorities and knowing how to manage your stress in a healthy way – and in this episode, we talk about how to do just that.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Dr. Brooke's Podcast (The Dr. Brooke Show): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-brooke-show/id1124755635   Get Your Copy of Hangry: https://www.amazon.com/Hangry-Simple-Balance-Hormones-Restore/dp/1250620732/

We just got a new puppy, and it's been amazing … but there have also been challenges – especially when it comes to introducing our toddler to her new furry friend. This transition in our family inspired me to record this episode to help YOU should you decide you're ready to adopt a new pet!   In this week's episode, I share 4 tips for introducing your baby or child to a new pet. I talk about how we've navigated the transition with our kids – ranging from 2 to 8 – and how to ensure a safe and healthy beginning … and the foundation for a beautiful friendship between your child and your new pet.   Here's the thing: Getting a new pet is a wonderful experience, but it can also be stressful and challenging at times – and it can bring up ALL the feelings in our kids. This transition – like all family transitions – will be so much smoother if we know what to expect and how to handle it.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

I talk all the time about how our mindset affects our parenting; the lens through which we view ourselves and our child in tough moments makes the difference between a reactive power struggle and a connective learning opportunity.    In this week's episode, I share the #1 negative thought pattern that I've seen in my work with parents. This negative thought pattern keeps parents stuck in blame and shame, makes us feel disconnected from our child, and renders it nearly impossible to parent effectively. Sounds pretty undesirable, right? Well, don't stress – in this episode, I teach you how to identify when you're in this negative thought spiral and how to pull yourself out of it!   Here's the thing: It's easy to get pulled into negative thinking, especially when you're a stressed out parent! The key is knowing how to identify, stop, and replace these negative thoughts with more helpful, true thoughts – and in this week's episode, I'll show you how to do exactly that!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Parenting is stressful. But what if we could widen our window of tolerance for parenting's most stressful moments? What if we could tolerate more … while reacting LESS? What if we could implement strategies ahead of time to help us show up the way we want to as parents?   In this week's episode, I talk with Elizabeth Andreyevski, a stress coach who helps overwhelmed parents reduce their mental stress so they can respond to their kids with patience & calm. We talk about why parenting feels so stressful, and Elizabeth shares 4 proactive ways to feel less stressed & prioritize our own needs without guilt.   Here's the thing: Parenting is always going to be stressful – kids are always going to be loud, push back on our limits, and test our patience. We can't change kids being kids … but we CAN actively fill our cups so that we can tolerate the hard moments without reacting in ways that don't feel good. And after listening to today's episode, you'll know exactly how to do that!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Emotionally Healthy Legacy Podcast: https://www.emotionallyhealthylegacy.com/podcast   FREE Resource (5 Things to Do When You're Feeling Triggered): https://www.emotionallyhealthylegacy.com/raisedresilient

Hitting, kicking, and other aggressive behaviors can be super challenging for parents – but when your child is too big to pick up, handling these behaviors gets even trickier.     In this week's episode, I answer a listener who's struggling to know how to help her 7-year-old son when he's angry and hitting; he's too big for her to easily pick him up, and his behavior is frustrating for the whole family. I talk about why aggressive behaviors in our older kids can feel especially challenging – and how we can respond effectively.   Here's the thing: Aggressive behaviors can happen at any age; kids of all ages can get so overwhelmed that their feelings fly out of them in the form of hits, kicks, and pushes. And responding effectively to these behaviors starts with having the right mindset.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

We talk a lot about connecting with our little kids – our babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and young kids. But as our kids grow, changing developmental needs & behaviors can sometimes make it feel more challenging to connect with them.    In this week's episode, I dive into how your relationship with your child changes (and how it stays the same!) as your child grows. I share tips for connecting with your older kid, preteen, or teenager and help you shift your mindset so that you can show up for your “bid kid” in a way that feels good for both of you.   Here's the thing: As our kids grow, it can seem like they don't need us as much – and that perception can create unnecessary distance in the parent-child relationship. But actually, our older kids, tweens, and teens need us just as much (and maybe even more!) … just in different ways. And once you understand what your child really needs from you, you'll be that much more able to meet those needs.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

How should parents respond to common bedtime struggles like children refusing to stay in their rooms, continually begging for one more story, or sharing that they're suddenly afraid of the dark? Why is bedtime such a struggle for some families? And what can we do to help?   In this week's episode, I answer all of these questions and then some. This deep dive into toddler and big kid bedtime struggles will help you understand why bedtime is such a struggle sometimes, what kids really need at bedtime, and how to respond to fears of the dark.   Here's the thing: When our kids go to sleep, they're embarking on the longest separation they have from us all day. It's a big deal! But with the right perspective, tools, and strategies, you can make bedtime more peaceful for everyone involved.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

“How do I get my baby to sleep?” If you've ever Googled that question at 3am, you're not alone. Sleep (or lack thereof!) is one of the most stressful parts of becoming a parent. It doesn't help that the conversation around sleep is incredibly polarized; it can feel like you're stuck with either “cry it out” or co-sleeping forever.   But actually, there's so much middle ground when it comes to baby sleep! And in this week's episode, I talk with Rachael Shepherd-Ohta – certified sleep specialist and the voice behind Hey, Sleepy Baby – about exactly that. Rachael shares tips for more sleep, how to know what's normal when it comes to babies and sleep, and when to see your pediatrician.   Here's the thing: Baby sleep is a developmental milestone, and every baby is different when it comes to how they progress in their sleep journey. But if you're currently in a situation where no one's sleeping, you don't have to stay stuck there! There are sleep solutions that will feel good for you AND your baby.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching   Rachael's website: https://heysleepybaby.com/   Rachael's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heysleepybaby/

The days are long when you're caring for a baby; the first year can feel like a blur of rocking, bouncing, and singing (and very little sleep!). But the work you're doing during that first year is SO important … and YOU are so important to your baby!   In this week's episode, I answer a listener who's wondering: How do you co-regulate with a baby? How do you implement gentle / respectful / conscious parenting with our tiniest humans? I share 5 tips to help you make sense of the many ways we're co-regulating and building emotion regulation – literally from birth.   Here's the thing: You're doing the super important work of building emotion regulation from the moment you first hold your baby. And after listening to today's episode, you'll have a solid understanding of the many ways you're connecting and co-regulating, even when you might not realize it!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching   Talking to Kids About Hard Things episode: https://www.raisedresilient.com/podcast/bonus-episode-talking-to-kids-about-hard-things-supporting-children-in-the-aftermath-of-a-school-shooting   “Mom Rage” episode: https://www.raisedresilient.com/podcast/36-lets-talk-about-mom-rage-parenting-rage-4-reasons-youre-losing-it-constantly-amp-what-you-can-do-about-it   Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/

Welcoming a new baby is a HUGE transition for everyone involved – especially for older siblings! As parents, we all want to support our older child in bonding with their new baby sibling – but a new baby is a LOT of work, and we often feel unprepared for exactly how hard this process can be.   In this week's episode, I share six tips to support you as you help your older child adjust to having a new sibling. I share the reasons this transition is SO hard on our older kids and how you can support them now and as their sibling grows.   Here's the thing: Growing your family can be a wonderful thing, but your older child might not feel great about it right away. Your older child (and your family as a whole!) will adjust with time & the right support, which you'll know how to provide after listening to this week's episode!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Do you ever feel like you and your partner are on two totally different pages when it comes to parenting? Maybe you've fully embraced gentle / conscious / respectful parenting, but your partner feels strongly about using punishments. Maybe you're arguing constantly about how to handle tough parenting moments.    If you can relate, you're not alone! In this week's episode, I talk with fellow licensed therapist Bryana Kappadakunnel about how to get on the same page with our partners when it comes to parenting. We talk about why it can feel so triggering when our partners make parenting mistakes, how to handle it when we disagree, and the single most important thing we can do each day to get aligned with our partners around parenting.   Here's the thing: It's not our job to get our partners “on board” with our way of parenting. We can't control anyone else, and when we try to do that, we don't model a healthy relationship dynamic for our kids. When we can instead get curious and lean into connection in these moments (sound familiar?!), we can see massive shifts in our partnerships and our parenting.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching   Bryana's website: https://www.consciousmommy.com/   Bryana's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciousmommy/

If you're like most parents, you entered parenting knowing only the punishments-and-rewards approach your own parents used. But along the way, many of us have learned about gentle / respectful / conscious parenting. We're intrigued, but we also wonder: Is gentle parenting actually effective? And when we raise our kids without punishments, are we preparing them for the real world?   In this week's episode, I respond to a listener whose partner is asking these exact questions (which makes this a fantastic episode to share with anyone in your life who's skeptical about gentle parenting!). I normalize this skepticism in the context of how most of us were raised – and I share why gentle parenting will absolutely prepare our kids for real world challenges.   Here's the thing: It can be really hard – and even downright painful – to give our kids what we weren't given, and we're bound to get triggered in the process. But if we understand what's actually happening in these moments (and that it has nothing to do with our kids!), we can better meet their needs and raise them in a way that actually prepares them for the real world.    FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/ Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Jean Piaget said that “play is the work of childhood,” and he was definitely right about that. Play is literally your child's most important job. We often place more importance on academics, but the truth is that kids learn SO much more through play than through structured learning, especially when they're really little.   In this week's episode, I dive into why play is so important and give examples of how you can support your child's need to explore the world through play. I talk about how to prioritize play, how to respect your child's need to play, and how to use play to support your child during tough moments.    Here's the thing: Play truly is your child's most important work. And in order to truly support that work, we need to understand, respect, and allow space for it to happen regularly – all of which you'll be totally prepared to do after listening to this week's episode!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/ Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Is your child a picky eater? Are mealtimes the most stressful part of the day? Do you worry about whether your child's nutrition is adequate or whether they're getting enough veggies? If this is you, you're not alone! Feeding kids can feel really stressful sometimes … and that's even more true if you've got your own issues with food.   In this week's episode, I interview Bekah Groop – fellow peaceful parenting educator / content creator, mom of 3, and eating disorder survivor – on how to ditch the mealtime stress and instead teach our kids to be intuitive eaters who tune into & listen to their bodies when they eat. Bekah's insight will have you stressing less about meals and feeling empowered to feed your child in a simpler, more joyful way.   Here's the thing: Most of us carry our own food struggles – influenced heavily by diet culture – into parenting, and that can make feeding our kids feel heavier & more difficult than it needs to be. But we can heal our own food trauma and nourish our kids at the same time by tuning into our bodies and embracing intuitive eating.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Raised Resilient with Dr. Hilary officially turns ONE this week! This means that it's been a full year since I started this podcast. I wasn't sure where this journey would take me (and I had no idea what I was doing), but I trudged ahead anyway, with a makeshift recording studio in my closet, a mic, and some serious passion for parenting & supporting parents.   In this week's episode, I reflect on the journey that creating this podcast has been, and I share 3 invaluable parenting truths that I've learned along the way. I also give a preview of what you can expect from season two, including the introduction of guest episodes (and I've got some good ones lined up, so stay tuned!).   Creating this podcast has been one of my proudest accomplishments and favorite things I've done to date, and I'm so grateful that you've been a part of it! At the time of this writing, the podcast has already amassed 30,000 downloads and counting. And best of all, making this podcast each week has made me a better mom and a better person. So thanks for being here, and stay tuned for season 2, which starts next week!   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

I get so many questions about challenging behaviors – not wanting to share, hitting and kicking, “clingy” behaviors, refusing to listen – that occur in the days, months, and years after a child becomes a big sibling. And while most parents acknowledge that getting a sibling is a big deal, we often don't realize that our child's challenging behaviors are connected to this major life shift.   In this week's episode, I answer a listener who wants to know how to help her young daughter, who's struggling on play dates. She doesn't want her peers to play with any of her toys, and that often causes friction. I offer thoughts on how to handle these tough moments – and I also offer some perspective and thoughts about how our listener can reconnect with her older daughter.   Here's the thing: Getting a sibling is a really big deal for kids, and it's a big deal for a lot longer than most of us think it should be a big deal. Many, many times, challenging behaviors are connected to this huge life transition, and we can best support our kids by reconnecting with them and helping them process and regulate the tough emotions that come with being a big sibling.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Meeting your child's social needs can feel confusing. Parents often feel pressured to create a full schedule of play dates starting in babyhood … and then we feel frustrated when our older kids – especially our teens – only want to spend time with their friends. So what do our kids *actually* need in terms of social development and peer interactions, especially as they grow and change?   In this week's episode, I give an overview of healthy social development from toddlerhood through the teen years. I talk about why young kids don't actually need playdates (and what we need to focus on instead!) and help you think about your child's most pressing social needs, no matter their age.   Here's the thing: Social development starts from birth – but what our kids need most depends on their developmental stage. After listening to today's episode, you'll know what YOUR child needs most right now (and in the future!) to support healthy social development.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Your child is a star student – literally a teacher's dream. But then she comes home from school, and it's a totally different story; it's meltdowns and tantrums and refusing to cooperate from carpool until bedtime. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone, and you're probably wondering why on earth your child only has meltdowns at home.   In this week's episode, I answer a listener's question about the huge difference between her child's behavior at school versus at home. I unpack this super common dynamic, explain why it happens (and why it's actually a good thing!), and give you strategies to better support your child when they're struggling at home.   Here's the thing: It's super normal and actually healthy for our kids to hold it together at school and then fall apart at home. And once we understand WHY this happens, we will be so much better able to effectively support our kids in managing tough emotions and challenging behaviors after school.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

If you've got more than one child, you already know how infuriating it can be when one kid starts picking on the other, seemingly out of nowhere. It might seem purposeful and mean, and it can be super tricky to meet both kids' needs in these tough parenting moments.   In this week's episode, I answer a listener's question about how to stop sibling teasing. I dive into the many reasons and complicated dynamics that cause one child to seemingly intentionally provoke the other, and I share both strategies to intervene in the moment and to help you feel prepared before things ever get to that point.   Here's the thing: It's super normal for siblings to fight, tease each other, and otherwise struggle sometimes. The conflict we see on the outside is just the manifestation of how our kids are feeling – both in general and towards each other – on the inside. Understanding what's really going on in these moments is key to supporting our kids effectively.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

“All I do all day is go from room to room cleaning up the messes my kids make!” Sound familiar? If it does, you're not alone! The constant tidying we do as parents is exhausting. It makes so much sense that you'd want your child to start cleaning up their own toys & messes as soon as humanly possible.    In this week's episode, I talk about how to actually get your child to clean up after themselves (I promise you it IS doable!). I share what to do (& what not to do) and what to expect as you teach your child the important skill of cleaning up what they're not using.   Here's the thing: Children can absolutely learn to clean up, but like most things in parenting, this isn't something we can force, and it's definitely a process that doesn't happen overnight. After listening to today's episode, you'll feel prepared to teach your child the art of cleaning up (without all the stress!).   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Most of us arrive at gentle / respectful / conscious parenting for a reason: We want to do things differently than they were done when we were kids. And the parts of our own childhoods that we leave behind as we become parents ourselves – the punishments, developmentally inappropriate expectations, criticisms, etc. – have often left us with unmet needs & unhealed wounds.   In this week's episode, I answer a listener who wonders how to deal with guilt around not having fully healed her childhood trauma before becoming a parent. I talk about how and why we can let go of that guilt, share my own story of recognizing childhood wounds through becoming a parent, and give you concrete ideas of how to heal that trauma – to reparent & heal your inner child! – WHILE also parenting your own kids.    Y'all, this is a powerful episode. We ALL have unhealed wounds coming into parenthood, and it can be freaking painful to parent with what can feel like gaping, vulnerable holes where our inner child peeks through when it's least convenient. Here's the thing, though: You will NEVER be fully healed; healing is a PROCESS – it's ongoing. And when you listen to this episode & hear all the ways (big and small) that you're healing as you go, you'll realize that you are already DOING the work. And that's what truly matters.    FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

"Parenting is the hardest job we'll ever do." It's literally the first line of my podcast intro, and that's because it's the truth. But we often make parenting even harder than it needs to be; we take on responsibilities that were never ours to begin with … and then we feel like failures when we're unsuccessful.   In this week's episode, I share three common but unnecessary “jobs” we take on as parents …. and I encourage you to LET THEM GO! You're probably working harder than you need to, friend.   Here's the thing: While I can't make parenting easy for you (no one can!), I CAN help you parent in a way that feels *lighter*. And after listening to today's episode, you'll have 3 things you can stop doing TODAY to lighten your load and feel better about how you're parenting.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

Ah, New Year's Resolutions. According to the research, most of us make them … and most of us also give up on them before the end of January. I think this is because we often think of our resolutions in all-or-nothing terms (read: I resolve to NEVER yell at my kids again) … which sets us up to fail.  In this week's episode, I give you another option: Ditch the all-or-nothing thinking connected to New Year's Resolutions and instead build more (real, actual) gratitude into your life. Research tells us that gratitude is literally life-changing when it's a regular part of our daily lives, and in this week's episode, I share ways you can work on inviting more gratitude into your life so that parenting as a whole feels better. You can do these things even if you're busy, stressed, and struggling to make ends meet. Seriously. Here's the thing: We don't have to make some huge all-or-nothing shift every January. But we can use the energy and momentum of the new year to propel us into bite-sized, sustainable change that actually feels good. And inviting more gratitude into our lives is an excellent way to do this.   FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching  

The holidays are magical for children. There's a constant stream of fun activities, sugar, and presents. But all of that excitement and schedule changes can also bring tantrums, meltdowns, difficulties with impulse control, and lots of big feelings.   In this week's episode, I give you actionable strategies to support your child through the holidays by paying attention to their schedule and cues, making a plan ahead of time, and knowing when to cut your losses and head home.    Here's the thing: It's not if your child will have a meltdown this holiday season – it's when. If we expect that our child will struggle at some point during all of the holiday excitement, we'll be so much better prepared to support them when it actually happens. And after listening to today's episode, you'll be ready to do just that.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Holiday Survival Guide for Parents!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/holiday   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

What do you do when you've made the decision to parent differently … but your family and friends aren't exactly on board? How do you deal when your own parents criticize your parenting? How do you navigate gatherings with relatives who don't get gentle / respectful / conscious parenting? These questions come up all the time … but especially during the holidays when we're gathering with friends and family.   In this week's episode, I dive into how to handle it when you're spending time with others who don't parent like you do. I give you scripts for challenging moments, help you shift your mindset around criticism, and empower you with strategies to set everyone – you, your child, and your relatives – up for success at this year's holiday gatherings.    Here's the thing: Most of us were raised in a way that literally wired our brains to care what others think. But the truth is that you don't have to justify or convince anyone to accept your parenting choices. The more convicted YOU feel about how you're choosing to parent, the more you can stand in your power knowing that you're doing what's best for your child … no matter what anyone else thinks. You've got this.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Holiday Survival Guide for Parents!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/holiday   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

If you're a parent who celebrates Christmas, you've probably been wondering: Is it really okay to “lie” to my child about Santa Claus in order to keep the holiday magic alive? And what do I do when my child comes to me & asks me directly: “Is Santa Claus real?”   In this week's episode, I answer these questions & share my thoughts on how to do Santa (& the Elf on the Shelf!) in a way that feels respectful, kind, and aligned with our values as parents trying to raise resilient, confident kids. I also offer ideas on how to handle it when your child asks you directly whether Santa is real (and what to do when a child who knows the truth encounters others who still believe).   Here's the thing: The magic of Santa Claus can absolutely be part of your holiday celebrations. But there are a few things we want to avoid doing (and some things we want to make sure we do) in order to carry out these fun traditions in a way that's respectful & honors your child's needs and development.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Holiday Survival Guide for Parents!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/holiday   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

There's so much pressure on us as parents to curate the perfect holiday experience for their kids. Five minutes on social media can have you scrambling to create traditions you didn't even know existed or feeling like a failure by comparison. You might work so hard chasing joy and creating magic that you don't even get to really enjoy the holidays.   In this week's episode, I explore the many reasons why the holidays are so stressful on parents and how our own childhood experiences and society's influences play into our stress. And then I empower you with six tips to reclaim your joy and stress less this holiday season.   Because here's the thing: Your child doesn't need fancy holiday celebrations, expensive gifts, or 35 magical traditions. Even during the holidays, your child only really needs YOU – and the connection, co-regulation, and comfort YOU provide.  Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Holiday Survival Guide for Parents!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/holiday   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

We all want our kids to be polite & kind, and this includes saying “thank you” when appropriate. In fact, many of us were raised to believe that “good kids always say ‘thank you,'” so we might feel triggered when our child can't, won't, or doesn't thank someone. We can start to wonder: Am I raising an ungrateful child??   In today's episode, I dive into what it looks like to help our kids recognize, connect with, and (eventually!) express feelings of gratitude. I talk about our role as parents in helping our kids tap into their gratitude (spoiler alert: It's not forcing them to “go say thank you!”) and how we can do this in a way that doesn't leave us (or our child) looking ungrateful at the holiday gift exchange.   Here's the thing: Gratitude is a feeling. And we can't force our kids to feel anything. What we can do is model noticing & verbalizing things we feel grateful for and help our kids learn to recognize when they're feeling grateful. If we do this, our kids will eventually start to express real, honest gratitude all on their own.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Holiday Survival Guide for Parents!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/holiday   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

As parents, we give SO much of ourselves. Parenting is HARD. And parenting differently than how we were parented can take a lot out of us; we're reparenting ourselves while we're coregulating with our kids, even when we're not really feeling it. And when you add to all of that the stress of the holidays, it can be really hard to show up the way we want to unless we're taking good care of ourselves.    In today's episode, I talk about self-care for parents – and why it's the necessary foundation upon which we build everything else we do as parents. I explore why we often struggle to care for ourselves the way we do for others, why seeking “balance” can actually make things even harder for us, and how we can fit in self-care around our kids and amidst our busy lives.   Here's the thing: Self-care as a parent is necessary – it's never selfish or something that's “nice to have if we can fit it in.” If we're not taking care of ourselves, we will struggle to show up as the parents we want to be. Self-care has to be a priority, full stop.    Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Holiday Survival Guide for Parents!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/holiday   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching   LMNT Electrolytes (no sponsorship – just a favorite product of mine!): https://drinklmnt.com/

Most of us grew up being punished when our behavior didn't please our parents: We were spanked, sent to time-out, sent to our rooms, or grounded. This was just how people parented when we were kids. And now that you're a parent yourself, you might struggle as you decide whether to use punishments with your own child.    In today's episode, I tackle the topic of punishments. Are punishments actually effective? Are punishments harmful? If we're not using punishments with our child, what else can we do when challenging behaviors show up? What's the difference between a punishment, a boundary, and a consequence? I answer all of these questions and more in this week's episode – and I share three reasons why I don't recommend using punishments with children.   Here's the thing: If we're trying to raise connected, resilient kids with a solid foundation of emotion regulation, then punishments go against everything we're working toward. And there are better, more effective ways of shaping behavior in the long-term. These other ways of dealing with behavior take more effort on the front end, but they are worth it in the long run!   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching  

One of the earliest pieces of parenting advice I got was this: “You just have to find your child's currency, and then ‘good' behavior will follow.” And at the time, I thought it was decent advice; sticker charts and treats are pretty innocent, right? And rewards are better than punishments, aren't they? Well, as it turns out, rewards aren't as innocent as they seem.   In today's episode, I dive into using rewards with our kids. Do rewards really work to change a child's behavior? What are there risks associated with using rewards in parenting? And if you're not going to use rewards to motivate your child, what can you do instead? I answer all of these questions and more in this week's episode.   Here's the thing: Rewards aren't as harmless as they seem; they're actually very similar to punishments, and in the long-term, they aren't very effective. But the good news is that you can absolutely motivate your child in other, more organic ways (that don't cost you anything and actually work long-term!). And after listening to today's episode, you'll know how to do that.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching

“Mom rage”: We don't really talk about it, do we? There's so much shame in our society around anger in general – and parenting rage feels even more unspeakable. But even though it feels unspeakable, parenting rage is SO common, and you're definitely not alone if you've experienced it!   In today's episode, I unpack “mom rage” (including why we call it “mom rage” even though any parent can experience it). I break down what “mom rage” really is & share four of the most common reasons we get ragey in parenting & simple action items to address each root cause. This episode is for you if you've ever wondered: Why do we go through seasons where we're losing our ish constantly? And what can we do to support ourselves and move away from rage and intense, frequent anger in parenting?   Here's the thing: Rage in parenting is super common, and you're still a good parent if you're experiencing it. It's not your fault, and you're not alone. But you don't have to stay in a place of feeling ragey / intensely angry all the time! You CAN feel better! I share four action items to help you move out of this place of constant parenting rage so that you can parent in a way that TRULY feels good. You've got this!   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Book a virtual coaching session with me! www.raisedresilient.com/coaching   Find a therapist using the Postpartum Support International Directory: https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/provider-directory/   Listen to the Dr. Brooke Show on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-brooke-show/id1124755635

Talking to kids about death feels hard, doesn't it? It's a tough subject for us as adults. And we're often talking about it while grieving a fresh loss, which makes it all the more challenging. Sometimes it feels so hard to broach this topic that we just don't … until we have to.   In today's episode, I empower you with everything you need to know to have a conversation about death with your child starting today, even if you're not grieving a fresh loss. I share how to broach the topic, what to actually say (& what not to say!), and how to deal when you're grieving & sad and simultaneously having to support your child through a tough loss.    Here's the thing: Death is a natural & inevitable part of life. When we approach it as such with our kids, we create space for them to integrate death as a concept into their world long before they actually need to understand it. Talking about death with your child is important, and after listening to today's episode, you'll feel ready to start that conversation.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/ FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset

We talk a lot about setting boundaries with kids – and this is for good reason! Boundaries make kids feel safe, and it's important that we show up as the sturdy leaders our kids need us to be. But sometimes our limits are less about safety and more about our own personal preference, which introduces some “gray area” into the equation of when to set a boundary with a child.   In today's episode, I talk about how, while boundaries are super important in parenting, it's also equally important that our kids feel like they have a voice. Our kids need to be able to express their needs and wants, share their opinions, and sometimes have influence in the parent-child relationship, and in today's episode, I share ways to do this while still maintaining safety and sturdy leadership.   Here's the thing: We don't want our kids to grow up feeling like they always have to cave to what someone else wants. We don't want them to feel like they have to do something just because someone else tells them to do it. We want our kids to know they have the right to take up space, and after today's episode, you'll understand what it means to give your child influence in the parent-child relationship without sacrificing safety or wavering in your leadership.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset

Your child is climbing up high on a play structure, and you're feeling nervous. What are you actually supposed to do? Should you be sipping coffee nonchalantly on a park bench nearby, letting whatever happens happen? Or should you be right there next to your child, setting limits around how high she climbs?   In this week's episode, I help you understand the importance of supporting your child as they explore the world around them. I talk about scaffolding their experience to support developing skills, setting up the environment for success, and finding the balance between hovering and completely checking out.    Here's the thing: Supporting our children as they explore is literally half of what it means to build a secure attachment relationship, so as much as we might want to, we can't just keep our children right next to us all the time. But after listening to today's episode, you'll know how to support your child in safe, healthy, developmentally appropriate exploration.   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset

You're validating all the feelings. You're saying all the right things. You're pretty sure you're doing everything right … and yet you don't feel any more connected to your child. In fact, you feel pretty frustrated. And your child's challenging behavior isn't changing. What gives?!?   In this week's episode, I dive into one of the most common reasons why gentle / respectful / peaceful / conscious parenting might be falling flat: The energy you're bringing to the situation doesn't match the goals you have or the words you're saying. I give examples of how to shift your energy in these moments so you can shift the dynamic between you and your child.    Here's the thing: The energy we bring to any given moment in parenting is SO much more important than any strategy, script, or tool. When you can shift your energy to a calmer, more present, more patient vibe, connection just happens – and from there, behavior shifts.   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Sharing is caring … or is it? Most of us grew up thinking that sharing was kindness – and that good kids always share. And now as parents, we wonder: Why isn't my child sharing? How do I get my child to share? And should I force my child to share if it's not happening?   In this week's episode, I unpack the topic of kids & sharing: What's really going on when kids won't share? Is it normal for kids not to share? And how should parents respond when kids won't share? I share the perspective shift required to respond effectively in these moments – and why I don't recommend forcing kids to share.   Here's the thing: Understanding what's really happening when your child won't share is key to being able to respond in a way that's helpful and builds connection and resilience. And after listening to today's episode, you'll be able to do exactly that!   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Parenting is legit the hardest job we'll ever do. Parenting differently than how we were parented is especially hard because we're being asked to give what we weren't given. As we do this, our kids trigger our own past hurts & unmet needs … and the next thing we know, we're losing it in an angry spiral.   In this week's episode, I help demystify parenting triggers – how they develop, why they're so hard, and what we can do to begin to shift how we show up in these really hard moments. I use the example of getting triggered by “defiant” & “disrespectful” behavior, but you can apply these ideas to any triggers you experience in your own parenting.   Here's the thing: We get triggered by our kids because we're choosing to break unhelpful generational cycles. And that's amazing! But in doing so, we need to heal, too, and that's not always easy. After listening to today's episode, you'll know the next steps to take to begin that healing process and show up differently in your hardest parenting moments.   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

If you spend just a minute Googling, you'll see hundreds of results on how to deal with a "defiant” child. By “defiant”, we typically mean a child who's purposefully digging her heels in & outright refusing to comply. We think of this child as difficult and problematic, and most of the Google results suggest punishment as a remedy.   In this week's episode, I offer a different perspective. I don't believe in calling kids defiant; I think doing so puts us in a mindset where we can't parent effectively. I share why I think this term is harmful – to our kids and to us as parents – and why labels in general aren't helpful in parenting.   Here's the thing: If our ultimate goal is to raise resilient kids and to parent in a way that genuinely feels good, then we need to pay attention to the language we use. We need to think & talk about our kids in a way that prioritizes connection and holds onto a sense of their inherent goodness, even in the most difficult moments.    FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset   Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/

Parents often feel frustrated, confused, and angry when kids tell lies. For most of us, this was a hard line for our parents; we were punished or made to feel like we were bad. And now as parents, we wonder: Why is my child lying? And how am I supposed to respond?!?   In this week's episode, I unpack the topic of kids & lying: Why do children lie? Is it normal for kids to tell lies? And how should parents respond when kids lie? I share why lying is actually a good thing and 6 common reasons lying happens. I also share exactly how to respond in each situation.   Here's the thing: Understanding what's really happening when your child tells a lie is key to being able to respond in a way that's helpful and builds connection and resilience. And after listening to today's episode, you'll be able to do exactly that!   FREE Mindset Shifts to Ditch the Overwhelm & Parent in a Way That Feels GOOD!: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedresilient/