Today, you’ll discover how to stop feeling manipulated by your child or teen using four proven strategies.

This episode is a masterclass in understanding and managing emotional manipulation. You'll learn about the science behind why parents get caught in these cycles and, most importantly, how to break free.

Dr. Becca Ballinger shares the four key strategies you need to create a peaceful and connected family environment. After listening, you will know exactly what to do to handle your young person’s intense emotions, foster better communication, and build a stronger, more supportive relationship.

For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page and to download the episode guide. This guide includes a summary of the key points and a worksheet to help you implement the strategies discussed in the episode, making it easier for you to tackle emotional manipulation in your home.

Connect with Dr. Becca Ballinger:

• Follow me on Instagram for daily parenting tips
• Browse my library of free parenting resources
• Gain skills by taking my court-approved parenting and co-parenting classes
• Sign up for my newsletter to get each episode—and its accompanying free guide—emailed directly to you each Monday morning

And always remember, Friend, I believe in you. You’ve got this.

Summer's coming, and I know what you're thinking: How long until I'm secretly wishing for school to start again? This year, I want you to flip the script!

Summer isn’t just about avoiding the summer ‘brain drain’ or surviving until fall—it's your golden opportunity to focus on your child or teen's natural strengths, deepen family bonds, and create those picture-perfect memories -- all while enjoying a well-earned break from academic pressures. If you're wondering how to keep your child or teen off their screens and engaged this summer, then this episode is for you!

In today’s episode, I'm diving into how to transform those endless days of potential summer slump into a season brimming with growth, connection, and involvement. Here’s a sneak peek of what I'll cover:

[9:24] Using Summer To Develop Natural Strengths and Interests: Find out how those lazy summer days can become the perfect backdrop for your young person’s creativity and exploration. We’re turning the dreaded summer slump into a season of growth and self-discovery.

[22:46] Connect With Your Child or Teen This Summer: Dive into practical ways to deepen your connection with your child or teen this summer. Whether you’re strengthening your connection or building bridges, we’re all about making heartwarming memories and shared experiences.

[29:54] Setting Up A Successful Summer Routine: Discover the secrets to creating a summer routine that’s flexible enough to feel like a break, yet structured enough to keep everyone connected and engaged in worthwhile activities. It’s all about balancing enriching activities with the chill vibes of summer.

[40:44] Connect With Community This Summer: Learn why reaching out beyond your usual crew of close family and friends is crucial this summer. We’ll discuss how fostering community connections and diverse friendships can enrich your young person’s social skills and broaden their horizons.

Ready to turn this summer from standard to stunning? Press play now, and let’s kickstart a season you’ll never forget! And if today’s episode sparks joy or gives you that 'aha!' moment, consider spreading the love with a quick rating or review on your podcast app. Not only does it help our show, but it also helps other fabulous parents like you discover us.

For a complete rundown of today’s tips and links to all the resources, be sure to visit the show notes on my website at modernparentingsolutions.org/episode71.

Free Guides:

• Summer Schedule Planner Guide
• Help Your Child Find Their Passions and Interests

Blog Posts:

• Why Your Teen Needs a Summer Job
• 6 Steps to Encouraging a Resistant Teen to Get a Summer Job
• Yes! Your Child and Teen Needs a Summer Sleep Schedule! Here’s Why and How To Create One

Podcast Episodes:

• Episode #13: Why Your Teen Needs a Summer Job
• Episode #16: Yes! Your Child and Teen Needs a Summer Sleep Schedule! Here’s Why and How To Create One
• Episode #17: Challenging Parent-Child Relationship? Try These 6 Strategies To Improve This Important Relationship In Just One Summer
• Episode #38: Stay Sane This Summer: Summer Strategies For Parents That Build Positive Parent-Child Relationships, Encourage Independence, and Create Lifelong Memories
• Episode #42: How Establishing Family Routines and Rituals Can Help Modern Parents Overcome Overwhelm, Stress, and Disconnection

Ever feel like your discipline approach is more of a mess than a success?

Let's flip that script!

If you're worried about being ineffective, crushing your child or teen's incredible spirit, or if tensions are high - it's time to introduce some PEACE into your routine. My 5-point PEACE plan isn't just about keeping order; it's about empowering your young person with the tools they need to grow into an amazing adult.

What if you could discipline in a way that not only promotes good behavior but also brings out your child or teen awesome potential AND strengthens your bond with them?

Here's a snapshot of today's episode:

• [9:42] Passions, Values, and Beliefs (P): Discover how your personal passions, values, and beliefs shape every parenting decision, acting as a moral compass to navigate parenting challenges with confidence.
• [20:09] Empathy (E): Learn how practicing empathy in discipline shows your young person their feelings matter, nurturing their growth and strengthening your bond, even in tough moments.
• [26:00] Autonomy (A): Explore how autonomy, backed by self-determination theory, empowers your young person to make decisions driven by internal motivation, seeing the value in their actions beyond mere compliance.
• [32:13] Consistency (C): Understand how consistency acts as the glue of your discipline strategy, providing security and clarity that builds trust and sets clear expectations for your child or teen.
• [36:15] Educating Life Lessons (E): Realize how transforming every disciplinary moment into a teaching opportunity can impart vital life lessons, making discipline a constructive and educational experience that extends beyond mere correction.

The PEACE plan goes beyond traditional discipline. It’s designed to ensure that your approach doesn't just demand respect but inspires it, cultivating a relationship where your young person feels valued and understood.

To help you implement this transformative strategy, I’ve prepared two free resources: “Empower Your Parenting with PEACE: A Step-by-Step Guide to Effective and Loving Discipline” and the “50 Life Lessons Every Modern Kid Should Know by the Time They Graduate from High School” checklist. These guides are packed with actionable tips and insightful exercises tailored to fit your unique family dynamics.

Join me as we explore each facet of the PEACE plan, giving you the tools to not only manage behavior effectively but to enhance your relationship with your child or teen. Remember, I believe in you. You’ve got this!

FREE RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:

• Empower Your Parenting with PEACE: A Step-by-Step Guide to Effective and Loving Discipline
• 50 Life Lessons Every Modern Kid Should Know by the Time They Graduate from High School

CONTINUE YOUR PARENTING JOURNEY:

• Free Parenting Reseouce Library
• Court-Approved Parenting Classes
• Court-Approved Co-Parenting Classes

Think setting boundaries is just about laying down the law? Let’s flip that idea on its head.

In this episode, I'm diving into something truly eye-opening—the reciprocal nature of boundaries. This isn’t your typical chat about rules and limits. It’s about understanding that when you teach your child or teen to respect others’ boundaries, you empower them to expect and receive the same respect in return.

In this powerful episode, I unpack how recognizing and respecting boundaries can dramatically improve your child or teen’s self-esteem, confidence, and their ability to forge strong, positive relationships.

Here’s what I've got lined up:

• [5:50] What Are Boundaries: We’re going beyond the basics here.
• [8:54] The 5 Types of Boundaries: Some of these might really surprise you!
• [17:06] The Big Payoff: How respecting boundaries reshapes self-respect and why it’s a game-changer for your child’s development.
• [20:00] Where Parents Miss the Mark: It’s easy to do—we’ll tackle how to avoid common pitfalls.
• [24:28] Tips and Tactics: Straight-up strategies to effectively teach and uphold boundaries that work both ways.

Ready to see boundaries in a whole new light? This episode is packed with actionable insights that can transform not just your approach to parenting but also improve how your family interacts every single day.

Can I aks you for a favor? Make sure to follow The Modern Parenting Solutions Podcast on your favorite podcast app and share this episode with other parents—it might just be the breakthrough they need. And if you find today’s tips helpful, I'd really appreciate a quick, positive review on your podcast app - that would be amazing, Friend :)

Let me help you on your parenting journey:

• Got questions or want to share a win? Email me anytime at podcast@modernparentingsolutions.org—I love hearing from you and your story could inspire our next topic.
• Check out my court-appproved co-parenting and parenting skills online courses: https://modernparentingsolutions.org/courses/
• I also have a free parent resource library that can answer a lot of your parenting questions: https://modernparentingsolutions.org/parentresources/

You asked...and I answered.

After last week's episode, many of you wrote to me to tell me that you wanted to use the strategies discussed in the last episode, but you're dealing with a VERY unmotivated child or teen.

Well...consider that problem solved!

In today’s episode, I dive deep into 4 strategies for igniting a lasting spark of motivation in your young person - helping them not just survive but thrive in these critical final weeks of the school year. This isn't just about pushing for better grades; it's about empowering your child or teen with confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment.

Join me as I guide you through actionable, engaging strategies that are easy to implement and designed to make an immediate impact:

• [6:08] Quick Overview of Motivation: Understand the crucial differences between internal and external motivation, and why knowing these can change how you approach motivating your young person.
• [13:00] Strategy #1: Strategize Together on What Needs To Be Done: Learn how collaborating with your child or teen on a game plan can make them feel invested and motivated.
• [17:05] Strategy #2: Make It A Joint Effort: Discover how actively participating in your young person's academic efforts can transform their motivation and deepen your relationship.
• [21:38] Strategy #3: Make It Fun: Find out how adding elements of fun to study sessions can dramatically improve your young person's attitude towards learning.
• [25:03] Strategy #4: Repeat Important Messages: See how consistent messages can build resilience and foster a mindset geared towards growth and success.

And for those looking to dive even deeper, I’ve created 'The Comeback Kid Masterclass' – a comprehensive, two-hour course designed to provide you with all the tools you need to help your young person end the year on a high note. This masterclass includes bite-sized, enjoyable videos and personalized worksheets tailored to your family's needs.

You can access this invaluable resource by visiting modernparentingsolutions.org/comebackkid. Let’s tackle these final weeks with a strategy that not only boosts academic performance but also builds lasting life skills.

Thank you for joining me today. If you find this episode useful, please follow The Modern Parenting Solutions Podcast on your favorite podcast app and share it with other parents. It could be just the resource they need.

If you have any questions about parenting in this modern world, feel free to reach out at podcast@modernparentingsolutions.org. I'm here to help, and your questions might just become the focus of a future episode!

Feeling like it’s too late to turn your child or teen's school year around?

Think again!

Discover the inspiring story of how I helped a family transform their sons’ academic paths, boosting grades, confidence, and attitudes with only weeks to spare.

In this episode, I weave the journey of working with this family into a powerful narrative, showing you why NOW is the perfect time to kick it into high gear and help your child or teen finish strong.

Learn how taking action in these final weeks can not only give your young person the confidence boost they desperately need - but also set them on a trajectory that positively impacts their life for years to come. Don’t miss this chance to turn the school year around and lay the groundwork for future success!

Check out 'The Comeback Kid' Masterclass Here

If you were raised by a narcissist parent, then this episode is your key to breaking the cycle and forging a healthier, more joyful parenting path.

In today’s episode, I dive into a topic that hits close to home for many: overcoming the impact of being raised by a narcissistic parent. This journey is about more than understanding your past; it's about reshaping your future as a parent.

Join me as I guide you through a powerful 10-step process (plus a bonus step) designed to help you move forward as a happier individual and a more effective parent. These steps aren't theoretical - they're actionable and rooted in real-life application.

In this episode, I cover:

[13:29] 4 Common Struggles: Uncover the often silent but profound challenges faced by those raised by narcissistic parents and how these 'battle wounds' might be affecting you - without your realizing it.

[18:04] 5 Ways a Narcissistic Upbringing Shapes Your Parenting: Discover how the shadows of your past might be unconsciously influencing your approach to parenting - and what you can do about it.

[23:54] The 10 Steps: Join me in the heart of the episode where we'll walk together through the 10 steps of healing the past, savoring your present, and looking forward to a future you can be proud of because you broke the cycle of narcissism. It's a journey that ensures your child or teen will never have to endure what you did, setting the stage for a legacy of healthy, loving relationships.

And here's something special for you - the Episode Guide: 'Reclaiming Parenthood After a Narcissistic Upbringing.' Download and print out the episode guide to use as your personal companion while you listen. This guide will help you organize the steps, take notes to personalize each one, and deeply engage with the reflection questions included. It’s a valuable tool for thoroughly thinking through each aspect of your journey.

🤔 Need More Parenting Resources? 💡

• Download this episode free episode guide
• Parent Coaching with Dr. B
• Online (and Court-Approved) Parenting Skills & Co-Parenting Classes
• Free Parent Resource Library

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Rate, Review, & Follow On Your Podcast Platform ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Did today's episode open up new perspectives on navigating your teen's educational and career journey? If so, I'd deeply appreciate your feedback. Your reviews not only fill me with joy but also help connect more parents with the guidance and insights we share here. Simply click here, scroll to the bottom, tap those five stars, and let me know which part of today's discussion really resonated with you!

Don't skip a beat on future episodes that promise more enlightening stories and strategies tailored for you and your teen's journey. Press 'Follow' on your podcast app to stay updated. Trust me, with what we have lined up, you'll want to tune in to every episode.

Hit follow, and let's continue this journey of learning and growth together!

You cannot afford to miss today’s episode.

I’m about to share insights that could dramatically shift your perspective on one of the biggest decisions facing your family: the journey to and through college for your teen.

In a world where the value of a traditional college education is being questioned more than ever before, understanding the right path for your teen has never been more critical. Whether you're navigating the financial implications of student loans, considering the impact of chosen majors on future employment, or exploring alternatives to the conventional college route...

This episode delivers the guidance and tools you need to support your teen in making decisions that align with their strengths, passions, and the realities of today's job market.

If you're tired of the uncertainty and ready to take a proactive step towards planning your teen's future, this is the episode for you.

And the time to listen is now.

In this episode, I talk about:

• [7:47] Unveiling the Study: Dive into the groundbreaking findings of the "Talent Disrupted" Report, which sheds light on the realities of underemployment among college graduates and the pivotal role of internships and major selection in shaping career paths.

• [21:18] The Evolution of College Conversations: Explore how dialogues around college have transformed. I'll dissect the shift from viewing college as the sole path to success to understanding it as one of many tools available to your teen as they carve out their future.

• [29:14] Four Actionable Tips: Equip yourself with four powerful strategies to help your teen make the most of their college experience—or decide if an alternative path might better serve their ambitions. From reverse engineering their career path to embracing real-world experiences, these tips are designed to prepare your teen for success, regardless of the route they choose.

Take the Quiz: Is College The Right Path For Your Teen?

Before you go, I highly encourage you to take our online quiz, "Is College The Right Path For Your Teen?" It's a thought-provoking tool designed to help you and your teen assess the best educational journey for them, based on their interests, strengths, and career aspirations. The insights you'll gain are invaluable in navigating this pivotal decision together.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Rate, Review, & Follow On Your Podcast Platform ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Did today's episode open up new perspectives on navigating your teen's educational and career journey? If so, I'd deeply appreciate your feedback. Your reviews not only fill me with joy but also help connect more parents with the guidance and insights we share here. Simply click here, scroll to the bottom, tap those five stars, and let me know which part of today's discussion really resonated with you!

Don't skip a beat on future episodes that promise more enlightening stories and strategies tailored for you and your teen's journey. Press 'Follow' on your podcast app to stay updated. Trust me, with what we have lined up, you'll want to tune in to every episode.

Hit follow, and let's continue this journey of learning and growth together!

📚 More Resources For You

• Click here to get The Episode Guide.
• Click here to see my full library of free parenting resources
• Click here to explore Parent Coaching with me
• Click here to explore my online Parenting Classes