Are you experiencing “Back To School Dread”? You know, that sinking feeling that this year will be just a frustrating repeat of the last?

This year CAN be different for your child or teen – and it’s easier than you think. In this episode, I’ll show you how three simple focus areas can transform your entire school year from chaos to calm, from stress to success. These strategies are not just about surviving the school year; they're about making it the best one yet for both you and your child.

As a parent, I know you want the best for your kids, and that’s why I’m here to share these game-changing tips with you. Trust me, they work.

• (03:12) The hidden secret: Why this time of year brings dread and how to flip the script.
• (07:25) The first focus area: Discover what every successful school year needs.
• (13:45) Storytime: How one simple change made a huge difference for a mom and her middle school twins.
• (21:10) Focus area two: This everyday habit can drastically reduce stress and arguments.
• (29:35) Real-life example: How a dad transformed his chaotic evenings into peaceful, productive time.
• (37:50) The final focus area: This often-overlooked step is a game-changer for academic success.

Listen in if you’re ready for the next chapter of your family’s journey. I’m right here cheering you on! :)

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Guide: Solve Your Child or Teen’s Sleep Problem
• Free Resource: How To Help Your Anxious Child Start The New School Year
• Online Courses: Court-Approved Co-Parenting and Parenting Skills Courses
• Email Me: Podcast@ModernParentingSolutions.org

Next Episode Recommendation:

• Episode #25: Everything You Need To Know To Solve Your Child or Teen's Sleep Issues
• Episode #42: How Establishing Family Routines and Rituals Can Help You Overcome Overwhelm, Stress, and Disconnection
• Episode #44: Unlock Your Child's Success: My Five Best Back-To-School Tips For Parents
• Episode #52: When Your Child or Teen Doesn't Want To Go To School

Take the Quiz:

• What Kind of Parent Are You? Find Out If Your Parenting Style Leans More Traditional, Modern - Or Somewhere In Between!

Don't miss this episode—it’s the parenting tool you never knew you needed. Tune in now and start transforming your child’s life!

What if I told you that you’re missing out on a simple parenting hack that could skyrocket your child or teen's motivation, confidence, and mental health? This episode is about to blow your mind and change the way you think about creativity and curiosity in your young person's life.

I used to think creativity was something you either had or didn’t. I thought the creative genes had skipped me. But guess what? ALL brains are wired to be creative thinkers - and understanding this can transform your parenting game. Creativity isn’t just about painting or drawing; it’s about problem-solving, adapting to new situations, and thriving in life.

In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the science behind curiosity and creativity and showing you how these tools can unlock your young person's full potential. You’ll learn how to turn everyday moments into opportunities for growth and learning.

What You’ll Learn:

• The Science of Curiosity: How curiosity works in the brain and why it’s a game-changer.
• Easy Strategies: Simple, research-backed ways to foster curiosity and creativity at home.
• Real-Life Tips: Practical advice to create a curiosity-driven environment.

In This Episode:

• 5:33: How the brain is hardwired to be creative.
• 6:40: Columbia University insights: The brain on curiosity.
• 8:23: The Duke University study: How Pretending To Be An Art Thief Taught Researchers About Creativity.
• 13:23: Why curiosity is crucial for your child or teen's development.
• 22:04: Easy ways to inspire curiosity at home.
• 28:45: Your weekly challenge—start creating curiosity now.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free eBook: The Ultimate Guide To Igniting Independent Thinking
• Online Courses: Court-Approved Co-Parenting and Parenting Skills Courses
• Email Me: Podcast@ModernParentingSolutions.org

Next Episode Recommendation:

• Episode #43: Teaching Your Child or Teen To Think For Themsleves: Cultivating Independent Thinkers

Take the Quiz:

• What Kind of Parent Are You? Find Out If Your Parenting Style Leans More Traditional, Modern - Or Somewhere In Between!

Don't miss this episode—it’s the parenting tool you never knew you needed. Tune in now and start transforming your child’s life!

Why Does My Teen Push Me Away?

Do you feel like your tween or teen is pushing you away and you're left wondering why? You’re not alone. In this episode, we're diving deep into why your young person might be creating distance and what you can do to rebuild your relationship.

You’ll feel better after listening to this episode because you’ll realize that this situation isn’t your fault—and I have the science to prove it! I'll share actionable strategies to help you reconnect with your tween or teen, supported by research and real-life examples.

In this episode:

• 1:55: My personal story with my son Patrick and how our relationship has evolved.
• 8:29: Understanding why teens push parents away—scientific theories and research explained.
• 13:45: Common triggers of disconnection.
• 16:56: Common myths of why this dynamic happens between parent and tween/teen
• 20:04: Respecting their need for independence and why it’s crucial for their development.
• 21:39: The importance of taking care of yourself during this stressful time.
• 24:18: Actionable Tips that you can use right NOW to eliminate disconnection
• 36:13: When to seek family therapy and how it can help rebuild your relationship.
• 39:44: Your weekly challenge—putting these tips into action and overcoming barriers.

You have the power to improve your relationship with your young person. Small, consistent efforts can make a big difference. It might feel tough now, but your dedication and love will shine through!

Resources Mentioned:

• Free eBook: How To Have Difficult Conversations With Your Teen So That You Get Your Point Across & Create a Close Parent-Child Bond
• Online Parenting Course: Modern Parenting Solutions Courses

Next Episode Recommendation:

• Episode #62: The Secret to Being a Happy Parent: Why Embracing The ‘Gani’n Changes Everything

Take the Quiz:

• What Kind of Parent Are You? Find out if you lean more traditional, modern, or in between by taking my online quiz.

I’d love to hear about your experiences or any questions you might have. Share them with me via social media or email, and please share this episode with a parent who needs to hear it. The more we spread these messages, the more we can help other parents build stronger relationships with their kids.

If you found this episode helpful, please leave a positive review so other parents can find it too. I would really appreciate it!