Reflective Parenting by Curious Neuron

Send us a text Family dynamics can feel especially intense around the holidays and one of the most challenging patterns many parents face is the triangle between you, your partner, and your mother-in-law . In today’s episode, Dr. Tracy Dalgleish returns to the podcast to help us make sense of this dynamic with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based tools. In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish , psychologist and author of You, Your Husband & His Mother , to unpack why the mother-in-law / daughter-in-law dynamic is so emotionally charged and how it quietly strains couples. We talk about boundaries, guilt, generational differences, cultural expectations, and what couples can do to stop feeling divided and start acting as a solid team. In this episode, we cover: Why this family dynamic is uniquely triggering How boundaries get misunderstood and what actually works What to do when your partner shuts down or minimizes the issue How to recover after a difficult family gathering Why connection comes before problem-solving Join me for a free Webinar on December 17th at 8pm (and get the replay!): https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/ce962dd904 You can purchase Tracy's book, You, Your Husband and Your Mother in Law, in the US or in Canada . You can also get her first book (which I also highly recommend called "I didn't Sign up for This" in the US or Canada . Listen to my previous conversation with Tracy below: https://podcast Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text If you’ve ever ended a night thinking, “Why did I snap again?” — this episode is for you. Today, we’re diving into what’s really happening in your brain and body when your child pushes your buttons. Because those intense reactions? They aren’t proof that you’re a bad parent. They’re signals from a nervous system in overdrive — and once you can recognize those signals, you can change the way you respond. We’ll talk about: Why your child’s emotions can feel like a threat to your brain The science behind emotional flooding (in both you and your child) How stress, exhaustion, and self-expectations reduce your window of tolerance What “repair” looks like — and why it matters more than getting it perfect You’ll walk away with practical reflection questions and simple shifts that help you move from snapping to connecting — even on the hard days. Join next week's FREE webinar (or get the replay): https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/ce962dd904 Read the full article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24392687/ Share your thoughts and questions with me: https://form.typeform.com/to/Dadaa8ns Read a blog post about this: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/12/03/why-you-still-snap-even-when-youve-done-the-work/ Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Hi Reflective Parents! This week, we are talking about something I keep hearing from parents which is snapping at our kids even when we are working on ourselves by learning about parenting or even going to therapy. You are not failing your child. You are still learning many skills that lead to you becoming more aware of your own state before you snap. In this episode, I walk you through 3 steps that might help you catch yourself the next time you snap (notice I didn't say BEFORE you snap....that isn't always realistic). I would love to find a way to communicate better with all of you. Share your story that is related to this episode in the link below OR ask a question to help me create a future podcast episode. https://form.typeform.com/to/Dadaa8ns Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text If you keep snapping, shutting down, or feeling guilty, even though you “know” what to do... this episode will finally make it make sense. After speaking with more than 200 parents, I’ve noticed the same pattern: We are drowning in parenting advice, but no one is teaching parents the one skill that actually changes everything, how your nervous system works. In this episode, I talk about: Why you still lose patience even after therapy, courses, and all the scripts What’s really happening in your body during those moments you “flip” Why you’re not a bad parent — you’re simply depleted How viewing your child through a leadership lens instantly changes your reactions The real first step to building a calmer, more connected home You don’t need more advice. You need emotional bandwidth — and today, we talk about how to build it. New! Becoming a Reflective Parent course is now available!!! Learn the 10 skills that help you rewire patterns, regulate emotions, and understand your nervous system. Get it today! https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Today on the Reflective Parenting Podcast, I’m sitting down with Dr. Brendan Kwiatkowski-Hartman to talk about something many parents quietly wonder about: Why do boys sometimes pull away emotionally and how can we support them without pushing too hard? Brendan is a researcher who has spent years studying boys, masculinity, and emotional expression. What he learned in his PhD work is both reassuring and eye-opening: boys do feel deeply, even when it looks like they’ve shut down. And the reasons they hold back are often more complex and tender than we realize. This is a grounded, thoughtful conversation, especially meaningful for dads who want to connect more with their sons but aren’t always sure where to start. In this episode, we cover: The two stages when boys start hiding emotions Why boys say “I’m fine” even when they’re struggling How to become an emotional safe space for your son What makes it hard for dads to be vulnerable Gentle ways to start emotional conversations with boys The RULER model for building emotional intelligence How to support boys who feel anxious or withdrawn Why parents’ own emotional work matters Practical scripts and small daily moments that build trust Read our blog post about this topic: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/11/15/boys-emotional-needs-study/ Learn more from Brendan below: @ re.masculine https://remasculine.com https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176325/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9513388/ Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text This episode will change how you see conflict. We’re talking about the proven communication patterns that destroy connection and how to replace them with healthier ones. You’ll learn: the Four Horsemen (with real examples) how the demand–withdraw cycle keeps couples stuck the shocking research: negative conflict literally slows wound healing how your nervous system shapes your reactions (before your thoughts do) 3 simple questions from Jefferson Fisher that can change the next conversation This is not about fixing the last fight. This is about changing the next one. If you shut down, explode, or get stuck repeating the same arguments this episode is for you. Read our full blog post about this topic (it has all the research I mentioned in this episode): https://curiousneuron.com/2025/11/09/the-science-of-healthy-conflict-patterns-in-couples/ Get the book The Next Conversation here Don't miss this podcast episode to help you out with conflict: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000735018841 Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text If you’ve ever wondered why you become a different version of yourself during conflict… this episode is going to change the way you see those moments forever. I’m sitting down with psychologists and authors Rachel Samson and Dr. Jessie Stern to unpack the science beneath conflict: your attachment history, your temperament, your nervous system sensitivity, and how all of this shapes the way you argue, withdraw, pursue, or shut down. This episode is not about “how to argue better.” It’s about understanding why you show up the way you do in the first place. You’ll learn why some of us chase repair desperately… why others shut down to survive the moment… and why conflict can feel like it happens faster than your ability to think. We also talk about emotional flooding and the moment when your nervous system takes over the conversation before your communication skills even get a chance. And if you are a parent, you will hear how this shows up not only with your partner but also with your child and what you can do starting today to interrupt the cycle. You will walk away from this episode with clarity, hope, and self compassion because conflict is not just about skills. It is about state. Get their new book on Amazon here . Follow Rachel on Instagram Follow Dr. Jessie on Instagram Read our new blog post: The Science Behind How you Show up in Arguments here Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Ever wonder why some moments with your child feel effortless and deeply connected — while others leave you drained, reactive, or misunderstood? In this episode, we break down the science behind why. Dr. Jessie Stern and psychologist Rachel Samson join Cindy to explore relational savoring — a simple yet powerful way to strengthen your bond by intentionally remembering moments of warmth, safety, and love. You’ll learn how this practice calms your nervous system, reduces stress, and builds emotional security — for both you and your child. They also unpack the role of temperament and sensitivity in relationships. Why do some people (and kids) feel everything more deeply? What does that mean for how we connect, comfort, and communicate? If you’ve ever said, “I wish I could stay calm when things get hard,” this conversation will give you the science and the self-awareness to start doing exactly that. Because connection isn’t about perfection — it’s about noticing, savoring, and showing up with compassion. Read their new book: Beyond Difficult: An attachment-based guide to dealing with challenging people Follow Rachel Samson Follow Dr. Jessie Stern Read the science article: Savoring interventions for mothers of young children: Mechanisms linking relational savoring and personal savoring to reflective functioning Listen to more podcast episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000731541535 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000681386669 Read our blog post: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/10/23/blog-relational-savoring-building-emotional-connection-with-your-child/ Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text In today’s episode, Devon Kuntzman and I dive deep into what’s really happening inside your toddler’s brain when they lose it — and how you can respond without spiralling yourself. We unpack why your child’s meltdowns aren’t your fault, what they’re trying to tell you through their behavior, and the simple mindset shift that will change how you see tantrums forever. If you’ve ever thought, “Why is my child doing this to me?” or “I said no… why can’t they just listen?” then this episode will make you feel seen, supported, and ready for the next tantrum (yes, really). In this episode, you’ll learn: The real reason toddlers have tantrums (and why it’s developmentally healthy Why “all behavior is communication” — and how to decode what your child is saying through their actions How to stay calm and compassionate even when you’re triggered Why giving in “just this once” actually leads to more tantrums What to do when your child prefers the other parent — and how to not take it personally Devon’s 3-ingredient “Recipe for Effective Discipline” that works with every tantrum How to model emotional regulation — even if you never learned it growing up Get Devon's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400252954/?bestFormat=true&k=transforming%20toddlerhood%20devon%20kuntzman&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k1_1_9_de&crid=11L8ZPOO86D3&sprefix=devon%20kun Follow her on Instagram: @transformingtoddlerhood Read our blog post: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/10/15/a-yale-study-shows-how-a-parents-calm-and-consistency-literally-shape-a-childs-brain/ Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Last week, we uncovered how your child’s behaviour is really their nervous system communicating. Today, we’re going deeper, inside the body, to explore the science of interoception , the hidden sense that helps us feel and understand our emotions. My guest, Laura Petix , is back to break down how learning to tune into your body’s internal signals can transform the way you regulate emotions, set boundaries, and parent with calm. We’ll explore what the research says including new studies showing that people who strengthen their interoception become more mindful, less reactive, and better at managing stress (Zamariola et al., 2019; Smith et al., 2023). You’ll learn: What interoception actually is and why it’s the missing link in emotional regulation How to recognize your own body’s “early warning signs” of overwhelm Simple ways to help your child notice what emotions feel like inside their body What it really means to protect your nervous system (and why that’s not selfish) How to create routines that support regulation for both you and your child If you’ve ever said, “I know the tools, but I can’t seem to use them when I’m stressed,” this episode will show you why and exactly how to change that. Tune in now to learn how body awareness can be your most powerful parenting tool and share this episode with a friend! Get Laura's book: A Kid's Book about Neurodiversity Follow Laura on Instagram: @theotbutterfly Listen to part 1 of this conversation: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170 Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text You’ve heard the advice: “Teach your child to name their emotions.” But what if the real secret to helping your child (and yourself) regulate emotions starts deeper inside the body? In this episode, I sit down with pediatric occupational therapist Laura Petix (The OT Butterfly) to uncover what’s really going on when kids have meltdowns, get overstimulated, or shut down. Spoiler alert: it’s not about being “bad” or “defiant.” Laura explains how your child’s behavior is actually a message from their nervous system and why understanding this changes everything about the way you respond. You’ll learn: Why meltdowns, shutdowns, and big reactions are signs of nervous-system overload How sensory sensitivities (sound, touch, movement) shape your child’s emotions and behavior The difference between a tantrum and a meltdown and why that matters Why co-regulation starts with your calm nervous system The mindset shift that helps you see behavior through compassion instead of control If you’ve ever wondered “Why does my child react this way — and why do I lose my cool, too?” this episode will open your eyes to what’s really happening beneath the surface. Listen now and get ready to see your child’s behavior through a completely new lens. Get Laura's Book: A Kids Book About Neurodiversity Follow Laura on Instagram @theotbutterfly Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Do you ever hear your child say things like, “I’m such a bad kid” or “I’ll never be good at this” and your heart sinks because you don’t know what to say? You’re not alone. And this episode is about to change the way you respond. Today, I’m sitting down with award-winning science journalist and author Melinda Wenner Moyer to talk about her latest book Hello, Cruel World, a toolkit for raising confident, resilient kids in today’s messy, complicated world. Here’s the truth: ➡️ Your kids will struggle with self-doubt, negative self-talk, and tough emotions. ➡️ How you respond in those moments can either shut them down or help them build lifelong confidence. ➡️ And the secret isn’t telling them “Don’t say that” it’s something much more powerful (and doable). In this episode, you’ll learn: The 3-step “recipe” for self-compassion (and how practicing it yourself teaches your kids to do the same). How to validate your child’s feelings without agreeing with their negative self-talk. The surprising research on resilience : why letting your kids sit with discomfort (instead of rescuing them every time) builds the skills they’ll need for life. Why helicopter parenting backfires — and how giving kids independence actually boosts confidence and self-esteem. The truth about alcohol and teens (and why letting them drink at home doesn’t protect them — it puts them at greater risk). This conversation will give you the practical, science-backed strategies you need to: ✔️ Stop feeling helpless when your child is hard on themselves ✔️ Build their confidence in everyday moments ✔️ Feel more equipped to parent in a world that often feels overwhelming This is one of those episodes you’ll want to save, re-listen to, and share with every parent you know. Join Melinda's Newsletter, Now What: https://www.melindawennermoyer.com/ Follow Melinda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melindawmoyer/ Parenting Self-compassion: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12671-020-01401-x Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Parents, this one is big. Today we’re breaking down punishment vs discipline, what science says, how it impacts your child’s brain, and why so many of us feel stuck in the cycle of punishing even when we don’t want to. If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to yell, spank, or threaten…but it just slips out when I’m overwhelmed,” you are not alone. Here’s what you’ll learn today: What studies reveal about how spanking and harsh discipline change the way your child’s brain processes fear, mistakes, and emotions. Why your nervous system is the most powerful discipline tool you have. A simple framework from Dr. Lori Desautels’ book Connections Over Compliance that helps you “connect before you correct.” And if you’re ready to go deeper, join us inside The Reflective Parent Club . That’s where we take this science and make it real in our daily lives, with support, tools, and a community of parents walking this same journey. Because when you regulate, connect, and guide, you’re not just shaping behaviour. You’re shaping the brain. Articles: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33835477/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36152947/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34197808/ Read blog post: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/09/20/science-of-punishment-vs-discipline-how-parenting-shapes-your-childs-brain/ Podcast episode with Dr. Bruce Perry: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000596000285 Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text This episode will change how you see your child’s moods and how you respond to them. If you’ve ever tiptoed around your child in the morning, worried the “wrong” cereal bowl or shirt will set off a meltdown, this conversation is for you. Joining me is Dr. Alex Reed, pediatric clinical psychologist and mom of two , who has spent years helping families understand temperament, moodiness, and emotional regulation. Together, we pull back the curtain on what’s really happening when your child seems unpredictable, reactive, or even says, “I hate you.” You’ll learn: Why some kids seem “moody” from the start and what temperament really means. The hidden role of shame in meltdowns (and why your child pushes you away even when you’re trying to help). The front door vs. side door approach and why lecturing, correcting, or over-validating often backfires. The science-backed strategies that actually work: modeling, storytelling, and overhearing. How to set calm, clear boundaries without escalating the conflict . The #1 skill you must practice first is your own regulation . This is not about quick fixes or “tricks” for behavior. It’s about raising kids who can handle their big feelings, and parents who can show up with confidence, calm, and connection—even in the hardest moments. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a new way to think about your child’s temperament, and practical steps you can use today to stop walking on eggshells. Join the conversation about this episode on our private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10172344324640258&set=gm.1942367649950164&idorvanity=677093716477570 Read a science article about this: Predicting child problem behaviour at school age: The role of maternal sensitivity, child temperament and theory of mind Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text This episode will inspire you to see music as a powerful tool for connection, healing, and everyday parenting. It’s an invitation to play, sing, and create moments of joy with your children while learning how music can also soothe anxiety, ease transitions, and strengthen emotional bonds. And it’s a behind-the-scenes look at the real science of music therapy – far beyond entertainment and how it can transform lives across every age and stage. Joining me is Tanya Lavoie, a certified music therapist who works in pediatric hospitals and specializes in using music to support regulation, pain management, and emotional expression. In this heartfelt and practical conversation, Tanya shares how her work combines neuroscience, creativity, and compassion to help children and families thrive. You’ll learn: Why music therapy works, and the brain science behind it How to use music at home to motivate your child, calm meltdowns, and create playful routines Simple steps to build meaningful playlists for relaxation or focus The truth about common music therapy myths (including the “Mozart Effect”) How to find a qualified music therapist in your area If you’re ready to bring more connection, calm, and joy into your home and discover the therapeutic power of music this conversation is your starting point. Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text I am going to be taking a short break. Meanwhile, enjoy this replay of one of my favourite episodes with Dr. Mona Delahooke. If you have a young child that has tantrums or that acts out in ways you don't know how to support, this episode will help you understand how to support your child in these challenging moments. Learn more from Dr. Delahooke below: https://monadelahooke.com/ Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Is your child ready for kindergarten from an emotional perspective? In this episode, Cindy discusses the emotional aspects of kindergarten readiness, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in children. She introduces the tripartite model of parental socialization, which highlights how parents' emotional coping, parenting styles, and conflict resolution impact children's emotional development. The conversation also covers practical strategies for parents to support their children's emotional growth and prepare them for school. Takeaways Kindergarten readiness involves emotional preparation, not just academic skills. Self-awareness is crucial for coping with emotions. Parents should model emotional regulation for their children. Understanding triggers helps children manage their emotions better. Emotional intelligence is built through conversations about feelings. Expecting children to be emotionally perfect is unrealistic. Parental emotional coping styles influence children's behavior. Setting boundaries while being sensitive is key in parenting. Conflict resolution in the home teaches children about emotions. Curiosity and relationship-building are essential for school readiness. Don't miss these podcast episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000720552759 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000715100953 Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text In this episode, we explore the idea of “shifting your lens” — a powerful metaphor grounded in science that helps parents understand how their interpretation of a situation shapes their emotional response. Drawing on the work of psychologist James Gross and his research on cognitive reappraisal, we break down how the lens you’re wearing (like blame, control, or shame) can fuel conflict and dysregulation, especially in moments of parenting stress. You’ll learn how to identify the lens you’re in, how to shift your lens to something more helpful (like curiosity or compassion), and how this shift not only supports your own regulation but also helps you model emotional intelligence for your child. Real-life parenting examples, practical tips, and reflection prompts will help you bring this tool into everyday moments even when things get messy. Read our blog post here: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/08/03/how-to-shift-your-lens-and-stay-calm-in-parenting-conflicts/ Read a science article: For Whom and What Does Cognitive Reappraisal Help? A Prospective Study Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TOURlBqtmIc Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Are you following positive parenting but your partner is more authoritarian? This is a common question I receive from parents and so in today's episode, I share a study that was fascinating to me. In this solo episode, I talk about how you can address parenting differences with your partner without making them feel bad, I chat about the different parenting style and I answer the question of what the long-term impacts are to having different parenting styles. Source: Differences in perceived parenting style between mothers and fathers: Implications for child outcomes and marital conflict. Read a blog post about this study on our website: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/07/28/can-parenting-style-differences-hurt-your-child-heres-what-the-science-says/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wpl1LkhK4B4?si=AfrHaOtasFd2529q Listen to this podcast to learn more about parenting styles: Nurturing a secure attachment with reflection skills The Science of Modern Parenting Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Have you ever asked yourself this question? In today's episode, I give you a different perspective on your child's behaviour....understanding how they respond to conflict. This is important because it impacts their behaviour in conflict (which is what we see when they "misbehave"). I hope you enjoy this solo episode! SOURCES: I look back at my conversation with Dr. Marc Brackett as well. You can listen to this episode below in case you missed it: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000640865943 Below is the article I mention "RSA reactivity to parent-child conflict as a predictor of dysregulated emotion and behavior in daily life" https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7908813/pdf/nihms-1668983.pdf The blog post related to this podcast: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/07/20/child-conflict-stress-response-behaviour/ Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NwH988IDIi4 Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text In this episode of the Reflective Parenting Podcast, host Cindy Hovington delves into the transformative power of playfulness in parenting. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, Cindy explores how embracing play can enhance parent-child connections and support emotional development. Discover practical tips to integrate play into daily routines, even when it feels challenging, and learn why joining your child's world can be a game-changer. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that encourages parents to let go of guilt and embrace the joy of play. Use CODE: PODCAST15 to get 15% off your first 3 months of the Reflective Parenting Club Resources: Study: Quality and Quantity: A Study of Father–Toddler Rough-and-Tumble Play Listen to my interview with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Amy Chiu: Supporting Emotional Development Through Play with Tina What happens when we let kids be kids with Amy Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text In this podcast episode, I delve into invalidation and its significant impact on romantic relationships. I highlight common invalidating statements such as "Why are you upset?", "You're overreacting," or "Calm down," explaining that these make a partner feel their emotions are wrong, unjustified, or excessive. This can lead to increased frustration, shame, and a sense of being alone in their struggle, mirroring the hurt children feel when invalidated. I emphasize the importance of using validating alternatives , such as "I see that you're feeling upset. Can you tell me what's making you feel this way?" or "It sounds like you're feeling anxious right now. That must be really uncomfortable. How can I support you?". These phrases aim to make the partner feel seen and heard, fostering connection and reducing conflict. I then introduce a study on marital conflict behaviors , categorizing them into three styles: • Destructive : Includes actions like yelling, insults, criticism, or bringing up past issues. • Constructive : Involves calm discussion, active listening, saying nice things, or trying to make a spouse laugh. • Withdrawal : Entails disengaging, such as becoming quiet or leaving the situation. The study found that, as expected, husbands and wives who reported using more destructive behaviors had a higher rate of divorce . A particularly fascinating and counter-intuitive finding was that greater constructive behaviors among wives predicted greater divorce rates . Learn more in this episode! Listen to my conversation with author of Validation, Dr. Caroline Fleck: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000715100953 Read the full study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3777640/pdf/nihms494814.pdf Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text Do you ever wonder why your child’s big emotions feel so overwhelming—or why small conflicts with your partner can spiral? In this episode, I sit down with psychologist Dr. Caroline Fleck to unpack the skill of validation —what it is, why it matters, and how it can radically change the way you connect with yourself, your kids, and everyone you love. We explore what invalidation really sounds like (it’s often subtle) and why even well-meaning parents can accidentally shut down their child’s emotions. Dr. Fleck shares simple, powerful scripts for validating feelings without condoning hurtful behaviors, and we discuss research showing how invalidation increases the risk of mental health struggles and gets passed across generations. Whether you’re parenting a toddler or a teen—or just want more connected relationships—this episode will give you tools to break cycles of invalidation and build deeper trust through emotional clarity. Don’t miss this conversation—because learning to “validate the valid” might be the most important parenting skill you ever master. Sources: Caroline's Book: Validation ( amazon.ca and amazon.com ) Science Sources: Examining the intergenerational transmission of parental invalidation: Extension of the biosocial model Parental Validation and Invalidation Predict Adolescent Self- Harm Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text with Amy Chiu In today’s fast-paced world, it can be tough to slow down and truly let kids be kids. We often get caught up in schedules, expectations, and the pressure to “make learning happen.” But what if the most powerful learning happens when we pause, play, and simply show up with presence? In this episode, Dr. Cindy Hovington speaks with early childhood expert Amy Chiu about the magic of free play and the importance of slowing down. Amy explains how play isn’t just fun—it’s a key tool for building curiosity, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. She shares why giving kids space to lead their play fosters deeper learning than worksheets ever could. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, you'll find science-backed insights and simple, practical ways to support your child—by doing less. 🔑 What You’ll Hear: Why slowing down and free play matter for real learning How presence and pause transform connection The power of observing rather than directing kids’ play Simple ways to bring downtime and emotional check-ins into daily life Related Podcast Episode: Over-parenting (helicopter parenting) Mentioned in This Episode: 📖 The Work of Play → Amy Chiu’s website and resource hub for parents and educators reimagining early childhood learning. Follow Amy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-chiu-msed-a09a1a27b/ Scientific Article: Learning Through Play at School – A Framework for Policy and Practice Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]

Send us a text In today's solo episode, I share a little more of my personal story with the hopes of helping you feel validated, less alone or even empowered. Father's Day (or even Mother's Day) can be difficult when you have a parent that is alive yet you have no idea where they are because they left your family decades ago. They knew you existed and they chose to leave you. I share a little more about my childhood and about how that impacted me later when I became a parent. Do you have a story you want to share (anonymously) with me about your own dad or your journey as a dad? Click the link below! https://curiousneuron.typeform.com/to/kd6zw438 Here is the study I referred to in the episode in case you want more details. https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/1342C24F368FB2953C342AFF875E04A6/S0954579423000354a.pdf/div-class-title-father-contribution-to-human-resilience-div.pdf If you are a dad ready to learn how to cope and regulate your emotions, try out the Reflective Parent Club, free for 7 days before committing. See link below. Support the show Learn more with Curious Neuron: Snapping at your kid? Get this FREE training to learn how to catch your nervous system in overdrive BEFORE you snap! https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2 Read to become a Reflective Parent? Purchase our course below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Email: [email protected]