The Child Psych Podcast

Episoade

• Why Kids Can’t Stop Scrolling: The Dopamine Trap Behind Screens, Cravings, and Modern Childhood | Michaeleen Doucleff 27.05.2026 55min

  In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Tammy Schamuhn sits down with Michaeleen Doucleff, author of Dopamine Kids, to explore what is really happening in children’s brains when they beg for more screen time, melt down when devices are taken away, or seem unable to pull themselves away from video games, social media, YouTube, or ultra-processed foods.Many parents have been taught that dopamine is simply the brain’s “pleasure chemical.” But Doucleff explains that dopamine is more accurately understood as part of the brain’s motivation and seeking system — the internal drive that says: keep going, get more, don’t stop yet.This shift in understanding changes everything.When children become explosive after screen time ends, their brains may not be responding to joy or satisfaction. Instead, they may be caught in a cycle of constant wanting. Screens and ultra-processed foods can act as powerful “dopamine magnets,” pulling children toward repeated stimulation while leaving them feeling more dysregulated, disconnected, and emotionally depleted.In this episode, Tammy and Michaeleen unpack:why screen time battles can feel so intense for familieshow dopamine-driven behaviors affect motivation, focus, sleep, and emotional regulationwhy children are especially vulnerable to highly stimulating technology and foodshow modern childhood has become shaped by endless craving and overstimulationwhy this is not about blaming parents or shaming childrenhow understanding the brain can help parents respond with more compassion, clarity, and confidenceThis conversation is essential listening for parents, educators, and caregivers trying to understand why screen limits feel so difficult, why transitions off devices can trigger meltdowns, and why many children today seem trapped in cycles of “more, more, more.”In Part 2, releasing June 3, Michaeleen shares practical, science-backed strategies to help families reduce screen dependence, shift unhealthy habits, and reconnect children with play, sleep, focus, creativity, and real-life joy.Michaeleen Doucleff is a science journalist and correspondent for NPR’s Science Desk. She holds a PhD in chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health. She is also the New York Times bestselling author of Hunt, Gather, Parent.You can learn more about Michaeleen and her work through Michaeleen Doucleff’s official website.Books mentioned in this episode:Dopamine KidsHunt, Gather, ParentAuraYour kid’s digital life doesn’t come with a playbook.But that doesn’t mean you have to stay in the dark.That’s where Aura Parents comes in. It combines traditional parental controls—like content filtering, time limits, and Pause the Internet®—with newer digital wellbeing features that show patterns in sleep opportunity, screentime trends, social engagement, and even AI app usage insights.So instead of just limiting screen time, you get more context and insight into changes in patterns and can use that information to decide when to check in with your kid.It’s not about control—it’s about feeling informed and empowered as you navigate an always changing digital world.Learn more about Aura Parents and start your free trial at auraparents.com/icp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The Indoor Epidemic: What We're Doing to Kids Without Realizing It with Dr. John La Puma, Episode #183 20.05.2026 36min

  Why Anxiety, Meltdowns, Sleep Problems, and Emotional Dysregulation May Have More to Do With Modern Childhood Than We ThinkChildren today are more anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, and emotionally exhausted than ever before.But what if one of the biggest threats to their mental health isn’t something happening online…It’s what’s missing offline?In this incredibly powerful and emotional episode of the Child Psych Podcast, Dr. John La Puma joins us to unpack what he calls The Indoor Epidemic — the silent shift away from sunlight, outdoor play, movement, nature, boredom, independence, and real-world connection that is fundamentally changing childhood.This conversation will likely make you see parenting — and modern life — differently.We explore why children’s nervous systems are struggling, why so many kids seem emotionally dysregulated and chronically stressed, and how today’s indoor, screen-filled lifestyle may be contributing to rising rates of anxiety, attention difficulties, sleep problems, sensory overwhelm, and disconnection.But this episode is not about guilt.It’s about hope.Dr. La Puma shares practical, science-backed ways families can reconnect with the outdoors, regulate the nervous system naturally, and begin restoring the kinds of experiences children’s brains and bodies desperately need to thrive.If you’ve ever looked at your child and thought:“Why do they seem so overwhelmed lately?”“Why does everything feel harder than it used to?”“Why can’t screens seem to satisfy them?”“Why do we all feel so disconnected?”This episode is going to hit deeply.In This Episode:The hidden psychological cost of indoor childhoodsWhy nature is one of the most powerful nervous system regulatorsThe surprising link between sunlight, movement, sleep, and emotional healthWhat kids lose when free play and independence disappearHow modern life is reshaping children’s brains and stress responsesSimple changes that can dramatically improve family well-beingThis is one of those conversations every parent needs to hear.AuraYour kid’s digital life doesn’t come with a playbook.But that doesn’t mean you have to stay in the dark.That’s where Aura Parents comes in. It combines traditional parental controls—like content filtering, time limits, and Pause the Internet®—with newer digital wellbeing features that show patterns in sleep opportunity, screentime trends, social engagement, and even AI app usage insights.So instead of just limiting screen time, you get more context and insight into changes in patterns and can use that information to decide when to check in with your kid.It’s not about control—it’s about feeling informed and empowered as you navigate an always changing digital world.Learn more about Aura Parents and start your free trial at auraparents.com/icp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Beyond “Just Take a Bite”: A Better Way to Handle Picky Eating , Episode #182 13.05.2026 45min

  In this insightful and practical conversation, we sit down with Katie Kimball, founder of Kids Cook Real Food and author of Kids Cook Real Food: Healthy Kids, Happy Moms, to explore the real story behind picky eating.If mealtimes in your home feel like a constant battle, this episode offers a refreshing and evidence-informed perspective. Katie challenges the common belief that picky eating is simply about stubbornness or defiance, and instead helps parents understand the developmental, sensory, and relational factors that shape how children engage with food.We talk about why pressure, bribing, and “just one more bite” often backfire, and what actually helps children build confidence and curiosity around food. Katie shares simple, practical strategies that support autonomy, reduce stress at the table, and create a more positive mealtime experience for the whole family.This episode is especially helpful for parents who feel stuck, frustrated, or worried about their child’s eating habits, and are looking for a more connected, sustainable approach.In this episode, we discuss:• Why picky eating is rarely just about the food• How pressure and control can make mealtimes harder• The role of independence and life skills in expanding food choices• Simple ways to involve kids in cooking and build confidence• How to create calm, connected, and successful mealtime routinesThis is a conversation about shifting the dynamic at the table, moving away from power struggles, and supporting children in developing a healthy, lifelong relationship with food.AuraYour kid’s digital life doesn’t come with a playbook.But that doesn’t mean you have to stay in the dark.That’s where Aura Parents comes in. It combines traditional parental controls—like content filtering, time limits, and Pause the Internet®—with newer digital wellbeing features that show patterns in sleep opportunity, screentime trends, social engagement, and even AI app usage insights.So instead of just limiting screen time, you get more context and insight into changes in patterns and can use that information to decide when to check in with your kid.It’s not about control—it’s about feeling informed and empowered as you navigate an always changing digital world.Learn more about Aura Parents and start your free trial at auraparents.com/icp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• When Autism Changes Everything: A Father’s Story of Growth and Hope with Harry Psaros, Episode #181 06.05.2026 30min

  In this deeply honest and powerful conversation, we sit down with Harry Psaros, author of From Struggle to Strength: A Father’s Journey with Autism, to explore a perspective that is often missing in conversations around autism, the father’s experience.Harry shares his personal journey from denial to acceptance after his son’s autism diagnosis, opening up about the confusion, resistance, and emotional struggle many parents quietly face. Like many fathers, he initially found it difficult to fully embrace the diagnosis, a reality he now speaks openly about to help other families feel less alone.Through vulnerability and reflection, Harry offers insight into what helped him shift his mindset, strengthen his role as a parent, and become a more connected and supportive father. His story is not about perfection or quick fixes, but about growth, resilience, and the power of showing up, even when it is hard.This episode is especially meaningful for parents navigating a new diagnosis, families experiencing disconnection, or anyone wanting to better understand the emotional journey behind raising a child on the spectrum.In this episode, we explore:• The emotional reality of receiving an autism diagnosis as a parent• Why some fathers struggle with acceptance and how to support them• The shift from resistance to connection• Building a united, supportive family approach• How mindset, hope, and small steps can transform the journeyThis is a conversation about honesty, growth, and the kind of parenting that evolves through challenge, connection, and love.To learn more about Harry, please click here: https://www.harrypsaros.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Meltdowns to Calm in Seconds: Play-Based Tools Every Parent Needs with Jon Fogel 29.04.2026 54min

  When your child is melting down, shutting down, or completely overwhelmed… it can feel like nothing works. In this powerful, brain-based conversation, best-selling author Jon Fogel reveals what’s really happening beneath your child’s big emotions—and why those intense feelings so quickly turn into explosive behaviors.But more importantly, he shows you what to do in the moment.Drawing from his work with families and the tools behind his upcoming children’s book Set My Feelings Free, Jon explains why talking often fails when kids are dysregulated—and why play, movement, music, and sensory tools can calm a child’s nervous system in seconds.You’ll walk away with simple, powerful strategies your child can actually use when it matters most—because the best tools aren’t the ones that sound good… they’re the ones that work in real life.What You’ll Learn:✅ What’s really happening in your child’s brain during meltdowns✅ Why logic and reasoning don’t work when emotions take over✅ Fast, play-based tools that help kids regulate in the moment✅ Why one strategy can work beautifully for one child—and fail for another✅ How to build regulation skills before the meltdown happens✅ How to stay calm, confident, and grounded—even in the hardest momentsJon is the author of the best-selling book Punishment-Free Parenting: The Brain-Based Way to Raise Kids Without Raising Your Voice, where he outlines practical, research-informed strategies for guiding children’s behavior without fear, shame, or harsh discipline and his newest CHILDREN'S BOOK Set My Feelings Free Jon is also the host of The Whole Parent Podcast, where he shares tools, mindset shifts, and real-life applications to help parents move from reactivity to intentional, grounded leadership. Through his writing, teaching, and podcast, Jon empowers parents to build emotionally healthy homes rooted in both warmth and accountability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Working with the Explosive Child with Dr. Ross Greene, Episode #179 22.04.2026 58min

  Challenging behavior isn’t a motivation problem, it’s a skills and problem-solving problem. In this powerful masterclass, Dr. Ross Greene (clinical psychologist, author, and founder of the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions model) and Tammy Schamuhn (child psychologist and co-founder of the Institute of Child Psychology) unpack a compassionate, research-informed shift that has transformed homes and schools: kids do well if they can. Instead of relying on sticker charts, punishments, power struggles, or “compliance-first” discipline, Dr. Greene helps adults learn to see behavior as communication: a child is showing us they’re having difficulty meeting an expectation, and there’s an unsolved problem underneath that needs our attention. What You’ll Learn:✅ Why consequences (rewards and punishments) don’t solve the problems that cause challenging behavior ✅ How to shift from “They won’t” to “They can’t yet,” by identifying lagging skills and unmet expectations ✅ The 3-step CPS/Plan B process for collaborative problem-solving✅ How to reduce conflict by solving problems proactively, before kids reach the boiling point ✅ How this approach supports children across settings (home, classroom, recess, coaching) while strengthening trust and connection FREE resources from Dr. Ross Greene can be found here--> https://cpsconnection.com/His newest book "The Kids Who Aren't Okay", His classic book "The Explosive Child" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• How to Deal With Your **** So Your Kids Don’t Have To: Breaking Cycles of Anger, Rejection, and Shame with Eli Harwood 15.04.2026 45min

  In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, we sit down with attachment therapist and author Eli Harwood to explore the heart of her new book, How to Deal With Your $%$! So Your Kids Don’t Have To: An Encyclopedia for Ditching Your Emotional Baggage—releasing April 14.At the core of this conversation is a simple but profound truth: your kids can feel what you don’t heal.Together, we unpack how unprocessed anger, experiences of rejection, and lingering shame can quietly shape the way we show up as parents. These patterns often surface in our hardest moments—during conflict, disconnection, or discipline—and can unintentionally be passed on to the very children we’re trying to support.Eli offers practical, no-nonsense guidance to help parents recognize their emotional triggers, work through their own internal experiences, and respond with greater intention and connection. This is not about perfection—it’s about awareness, repair, and doing the kind of work that changes family patterns over time.In this episode, we explore:*How anger, rejection, and shame show up in parenting*Why children carry what parents don’t process*Tools to begin healing your own emotional patterns*Strategies to handle big emotions in the moment*How to break generational cycles and build secure, connected relationships✨ Her new book, How to Deal With Your _________! So Your Kids Don’t Have To, releases April 14—your roadmap to shedding emotional baggage and raising children who feel safe, seen, and secure. Order HERE : https://www.attachmentnerd.com/books/how-to-deal-with-your-so-your-kids-dont-have-to Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Raising Anti-Racist Children Starts Earlier Than Most Parents Realize, Episode #177 08.04.2026 56min

  How do we raise children who not only feel a deep sense of belonging — but actively create it for others?In this powerful and deeply important episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Gaiathry Jeyarajan — clinical psychologist, educator, advocate, and author of Ella’s Choice — to explore what it truly means to raise inclusive, compassionate, and socially aware children in today’s world.Grounded in developmental science, attachment, and real-life parenting, this conversation unpacks how belonging begins in the earliest relationships — through emotional safety, secure attachment, and children feeling genuinely seen, heard, and valued at home. From there, we explore how children develop empathy, identity, moral courage, and the confidence to speak up when something feels unfair.Dr. Jeyarajan explains why children are naturally curious rather than judgmental, how bias is learned through environment and silence, and why avoiding conversations about race and difference can unintentionally leave children vulnerable to harmful narratives. Together, we discuss how honest, developmentally appropriate conversations build emotional safety, critical thinking, and compassion.This episode also highlights one of the most important truths in parenting: children learn far more from what we model than what we say.How we respond to exclusion, discomfort, injustice, and everyday moments teaches children how to move through the world.Most importantly, this conversation reminds us that raising anti-racist and inclusive children is not about perfection. It is about presence, openness, repair, and being willing to grow alongside our children.In This Episode, We Discuss:How belonging and inclusion begin in early childhoodWhy children are naturally curious—not inherently biasedHow bias is learned through silence, environment, and messagingThe importance of talking openly about race and differenceHow emotional safety supports empathy and compassionRaising children who speak up against unfairness and exclusionWhy modeling matters more than lecturesHelping children develop identity, courage, and social awarenessPractical ways parents can nurture inclusion and belonging at homeThis episode is a compassionate and hopeful guide for parents, educators, and professionals who want to raise children capable of creating safer, kinder, and more inclusive spaces for everyone around them.Click here to find out more about " I Love You More Than Rice and Curry" : https://a.co/d/0bBWYpxK Dr Gaiathry's Instagram is also fantastic: https://www.instagram.com/lifeofashrink/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Your Child Isn’t Lazy: The ADHD Struggle Parents Often Misunderstand, Episode #176 01.04.2026 46min

  In this insightful and deeply validating episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Mike Goldstein — education leader and co-author of I’ll Do It Later: Surviving School (and Renewing the Love) with Your ADHD Son.Together, we unpack a refreshing and realistic perspective on ADHD — one that moves beyond blame, labels, and quick-fix parenting strategies.Through powerful real-life stories and case studies of boys navigating school, motivation, homework, and everyday life, Mike challenges one of the biggest misconceptions about ADHD: that children simply “aren’t trying hard enough.”Instead, this conversation reveals a much deeper truth.Many children with ADHD genuinely want to succeed, want to please the adults around them, and want to follow through — but struggle with executive functioning skills like task initiation, organization, sustained attention, planning, and follow-through, especially outside highly structured environments like school.We explore why so many traditional parenting and school approaches fail to create lasting change, how technology and shrinking attention spans may be complicating ADHD symptoms, and what actually helps children build motivation, confidence, and independence over time.Most importantly, this episode offers parents a compassionate reframe: ADHD is not a character flaw or motivation problem — it is an execution challenge rooted in how the brain manages attention, regulation, and action.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why ADHD is often misunderstood as laziness or lack of motivationThe difference between wanting to do something and being able to initiate itHow executive functioning impacts homework, routines, and follow-throughWhy many ADHD strategies fail over timeThe impact of technology and attention fragmentation on kids todayHow relationships and environment shape ADHD successPractical ways parents can reduce power struggles and frustrationSupporting children with ADHD through coaching, understanding, and realistic expectationsThis episode is a powerful reminder that behind many unfinished tasks, forgotten homework assignments, and frustrating routines is a child who is often trying much harder than we realize.To find out more about Mike, click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• How to Stop Yelling at Your Kids with Dr Laura Markham, Episode #175 25.03.2026 43min

  We’re airing a re-run today of one of our most popular podcast episodes with Dr. Laura Markham.Most parents think that if our child would just "behave," we could maintain our composure as parents. The truth is that managing our own emotions and actions is what allows us to feel peaceful as parents. Ultimately we can’t control our children or the hand life deals them—but we can always control our own actions. Parenting isn’t about what our child does, but about how we respond."In this podcast we interview one of our FAVOURITE parenting experts Dr. Laura Markham, Clinical Psychologist, best-selling author of the book "Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids" and "Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings" and founder of AHA!Parenting where we talk about how to keep our cool as parents! Want more of Dr. Markham?! Use code ICPSAVE30 to TAKE 30% OFF her courses: Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings: https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/product/peaceful-parent-happy-siblings-how-to-stop-the-fighting-raise-friends-for-life/ How to Raise an Emotionally Healthy Child: https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/product/how-to-raise-an-emotionally-intelligent-child/Interested in more from the Institute? The Parenting Handbook: Your Guide to Raising Resilient Children is the ultimate guide to nurturing emotional regulation, resiliency, connection, and well-being in children. Find out more here Our  parenting membership comes with over 90 Parenting & Mental Health Courses and more!. Click here Our professional membership offers affordable, accessible training all in one spot for mental health professionals! Find out more  hereWe have amazing free parenting content on:YoutubeInstagramFacebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• How to Help an Anxious Child Face Their Fears Without Making Anxiety Worse with Poppy 'O Neil, Episode #174 18.03.2026 37min

  Childhood anxiety is more common than many parents realize — and it often shows up in ways that leave families feeling confused, overwhelmed, and unsure how to help.In this compassionate and practical episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we explore how worries take shape in a child’s mind, why anxiety can feel so overwhelming in the body, and what parents can do to help children build confidence, resilience, and bravery in the face of fear.Inspired by the ideas behind Shrink Your Worries, this conversation focuses on practical, child-friendly strategies that help children understand anxious thoughts, calm their nervous systems, and slowly face the situations that feel scary instead of avoiding them.Together, we unpack one of the most important truths about anxiety: the goal is not to eliminate fear completely, but to help children learn they are capable of moving through fear with support, courage, and connection.We discuss why anxious thoughts often grow bigger when children avoid difficult situations, how reassurance can sometimes accidentally reinforce anxiety, and why small steps toward bravery can create powerful long-term change. Parents will also learn how to respond to anxious moments in ways that help children feel safe, capable, and emotionally supported.This episode is filled with gentle encouragement and practical tools for parents, educators, and professionals supporting anxious children.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why childhood anxiety can feel so overwhelming for kidsHow anxious thoughts grow and take holdWhy avoidance unintentionally strengthens anxiety over timeHelping children calm their bodies during anxious momentsPractical strategies to build bravery and resilienceHow parents can respond without reinforcing fearSupporting children through worries with calm, connection, and encouragementWhy confidence grows when children face fears in small, manageable stepsTo find out more about Poppy, click here , more here too on Poppy's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poppyoneillbooks/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• What If Your Child’s Struggles Are Actually Brain Imbalances? | Dr. Robert Melillo, Episode #173 11.03.2026 57min

  In this special sneak peek from the upcoming ICP Summit 2026, we are joined by Dr. Robert Melillo — renowned clinician, researcher, author of Disconnected Kids, and creator of the Brain Balance Program.This fascinating and thought-provoking conversation explores a question many parents ask themselves every day:Why is my child struggling so much despite trying so hard?Drawing from decades of research and clinical work, Dr. Melillo explains how subtle imbalances in brain development may contribute to challenges such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, OCD, learning difficulties, emotional dysregulation, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral struggles.Together, we unpack the concept of functional disconnection syndrome — differences in communication between regions of the brain, particularly between the hemispheres — and how these imbalances can impact attention, emotional regulation, learning, coordination, behavior, and social functioning.Most importantly, this episode offers hope.Dr. Melillo explains the incredible power of neuroplasticity and how the developing brain can strengthen, grow, and change through targeted intervention and supportive experiences. We explore holistic, brain-based approaches that support children from the bottom up, including movement therapies, sensory stimulation, nutrition, cognitive exercises, and environmental supports designed to strengthen neural pathways and improve long-term functioning.Whether you are parenting a child with ADHD, autism, anxiety, learning challenges, or simply trying to better understand your child’s nervous system and development, this episode offers a compassionate and deeply informative perspective.In This Episode, We Discuss:What “functional disconnection syndrome” meansHow brain imbalances may impact behavior, learning, and emotional regulationThe connection between neurodevelopment and ADHD, autism, dyslexia, OCD, and sensory challengesWhy struggling children are often misunderstoodThe science of neuroplasticity and how the brain can changeMovement-based and sensory-based interventions for brain developmentThe role of nutrition, cognitive exercises, and environmental supportWhy a holistic, brain-based approach can help children thriveThis episode is a powerful reminder that beneath every challenging behavior is a developing brain asking for understanding, support, and the right kind of help.LINK TO HIS BEST-SELLING BOOK--> https://a.co/d/0jdB23nD Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• What Every Parent Needs to Know About Kids, Screens, and Online Exploitation, Episode #172 04.03.2026 50min

  Today’s episode is a special sneak peek from one of the powerful masterclasses featured in the upcoming ICP Summit 2026 — and if your child has a smartphone, gaming console, or social media account, this is a conversation you cannot afford to miss.In this urgent and eye-opening episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Constable Scott Sterling and Constable Stephanie Bosch from the Internet Child Exploitation Unit to talk about what is really happening behind children’s screens today.Together, we unpack the growing realities families are facing online — including sextortion, online grooming, explicit image sharing, gaming-based exploitation, and the emotional devastation many children experience when private images are spread or threats begin.But this conversation is not about panic or fear.It is about prevention, awareness, and giving parents the knowledge they need before a crisis happens.Scott and Stephanie explain how offenders build trust with children through games, social media apps, and private messaging platforms, why even “good kids from good homes” are vulnerable, and what warning signs parents should never ignore. Most importantly, they share practical, immediate strategies parents can use to reduce risk, strengthen communication, and create homes where children feel safe asking for help.We also discuss:What to say to your child tonight about online safetyThe biggest mistakes parents unknowingly make onlineWhat to do immediately if your child is being threatened or sextortedWhy shame keeps many children silentThe emotional impact online exploitation has on kids and teensHow connection and open communication protect children more than monitoring aloneThis is one of the most important conversations we’ve had for parents navigating today’s digital world.Please listen. Share it. And start the conversation before your child needs it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why the Moms Who Love Their Children the Most Often Hurt the Most with Rebecca Geshuri, Episode 171 25.02.2026 42min

  n this deeply emotional and validating episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Rebecca Geshuri — licensed marriage and family therapist, IFS-informed clinician, perinatal mental health specialist, and co-author of When Good Moms Feel Bad.This conversation speaks directly to the mothers carrying invisible guilt, shame, rage, anxiety, exhaustion, and the quiet fear that they are somehow failing their children despite loving them deeply.Rebecca helps us understand a profound truth: the mothers who care the most often struggle the most.Together, we explore how Internal Family Systems (IFS) offers a compassionate and transformative framework for understanding motherhood—not through blame or pathology, but through the lens of nervous systems, emotional overwhelm, and protective “parts” that emerge during stress. Rebecca explains the difference between our “Good Mom” parts and “Bad Mom” parts, why maternal rage is often rooted in unmet needs and overload, and how shame keeps so many mothers suffering silently and alone.We also discuss the powerful concept of unblending—learning to create space from overwhelming emotions so parents can respond instead of react in difficult moments. Rebecca offers deep reassurance to parents terrified that their anger or dysregulation has already harmed their children, reminding us that repair, reconnection, and nervous system safety matter far more than perfection.Most importantly, this episode introduces listeners to the idea of the “Inner Mom”—the calm, compassionate internal leader that already exists within every parent, even when overwhelm makes it hard to access.This is a conversation every mother deserves to hear.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why loving your child deeply can sometimes make parenting feel harderMaternal rage, anxiety, guilt, and shame through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS)The difference between “Good Mom” and “Bad Mom” partsWhy mothers often feel emotionally flooded and reactiveHow shame keeps parents isolated and suffering silentlyThe power of unblending during triggering parenting momentsWhy repair matters more than perfection in parent-child relationshipsHow healing a mother’s inner world supports a child’s attachment and regulationAccessing the calm, compassionate “Inner Mom” during overwhelmIf you’ve ever whispered to yourself, “Why is this so hard if I love my child this much?” — this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and far less alone.Find Rebecca on social @rebeccageshurilmftHere is the link to her new book, "When Good Mom's Feel Bad" : https://rebeccageshurilmft.com/book Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Girls Confidence Drops at 10 with Elle Wilks, Episode #170 18.02.2026 35min

  In this episode, we sit down with Elle Wilks, confidence advocate and co-founder of Fearless Girls Club, to explore a pattern many parents notice but don’t always understand: why girls’ confidence so often drops around age 10.This is the age when many girls shift from carefree self-expression to self-consciousness. Peer approval, appearance, performance, and social comparison begin to carry more weight. What once felt easy — speaking up, trying new things, being silly, taking risks — can suddenly feel loaded with fear of getting it wrong.Elle shares what is happening developmentally, socially, and emotionally during this stage, and how subtle messages about being “good,” “nice,” and “liked” can slowly disconnect girls from their authentic voice. We talk about the growing influence of friendships, perfectionism, school pressure, and the early impact of social media culture — even before many girls are officially online.Drawing from her work with girls and families through Fearless Girls Club, an award-winning UK social enterprise supporting girls aged 8–12, Elle explains how confidence isn’t built through lectures — it grows through experiences of courage, creativity, and connection. Their monthly themed activity boxes are designed to spark those moments, giving girls practical tools, stories, and creative challenges that nurture bravery, kindness, and self-worth in a hands-on, meaningful way.Most importantly, this conversation is packed with practical ways parents can respond when confidence begins to wobble. You’ll learn how to:• notice early signs of shrinking confidence• support bravery without adding pressure• shift conversations away from appearance and toward identity• help girls build resilience after social setbacks• create a home environment that protects self-worthIf you’ve seen your once bold, expressive child become more hesitant, emotional, or self-critical, this episode will help you understand why — and show you how to gently guide her back toward self-trust.An empowering listen for parents, educators, and anyone who wants to help girls grow up grounded, confident, and secure in who they are.To find out more about the Fearless Girls Club, click here👀 Something Big Is Coming for Parents…We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust us, you’re going to want this in your back pocket. More details soon!The 2026 ICP Parenting Summit is next month!Join us March 16–19 for 35+ expert masterclasses and four interactive half-day workshops, featuring leading voices like Ross Greene, Laura Markham, Robert Melillo, Lawrence Cohen, Kim John Payne, and Jon Fogel. We’ll be diving into the topics parents need most: screens, discipline, anxiety, emotional regulation, neurodiversity, resilience, play, and more.The summit is completely free, and VIP packages include lifetime access, toolkits, certificates, and a digital copy of The Parenting Handbook.Click here to save your seat!• how to repair and reconnect after the storm has passed• ways to build emotional skills so these explosions happen less oftenTammy and Tania share compassionate, practical strategies that help parents lead with steadiness instead of shame or punishment. You’ll walk away understanding how to hold boundaries while still protecting your connection — even in the hardest moments.If you’ve ever felt crushed, angry, or unsure what to do after hearing those words, this episode will help you see them differently and respond in a way that strengthens your relationship rather than strains it.A must-listen for parents raising emotionally healthy, resilient kids. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• What to do when your kid says I hate you with Tania and Tammy, Episode #169 11.02.2026 22min

  In this episode, Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson tackle one of the most painful moments in parenting: when your child looks at you and says, “I hate you.”Those words can sting, shock, and even shake your confidence as a parent. But Tammy and Tania explain why this moment is far less about hatred — and far more about big feelings, overwhelmed nervous systems, and developing brains that don’t yet have the skills to say what they truly mean.You’ll learn what’s actually happening beneath those words, why kids often say this to the people they feel safest with, and how your response in that moment can either escalate the situation or help your child return to regulation.In this conversation, we cover:• why “I hate you” is often a sign of emotional overload, not disrespect• how brain development limits kids’ ability to express complex feelings• what not to say in the moment• how to stay calm when you feel hurt or triggered👀 Something Big Is Coming for Parents…We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust us, you’re going to want this in your back pocket. More details soon!The 2026 ICP Parenting Summit is coming!Join us March 16–19 for 35+ expert masterclasses and four interactive half-day workshops, featuring leading voices like Ross Greene, Laura Markham, Robert Melillo, Lawrence Cohen, Kim John Payne, and Jon Fogel. We’ll be diving into the topics parents need most: screens, discipline, anxiety, emotional regulation, neurodiversity, resilience, play, and more.The summit is completely free, and VIP packages include lifetime access, toolkits, certificates, and a digital copy of The Parenting Handbook.Click here to save your seat!• how to repair and reconnect after the storm has passed• ways to build emotional skills so these explosions happen less oftenTammy and Tania share compassionate, practical strategies that help parents lead with steadiness instead of shame or punishment. You’ll walk away understanding how to hold boundaries while still protecting your connection — even in the hardest moments.If you’ve ever felt crushed, angry, or unsure what to do after hearing those words, this episode will help you see them differently and respond in a way that strengthens your relationship rather than strains it.A must-listen for parents raising emotionally healthy, resilient kids. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Punishment Backfires During the Toddler Years with Devon Kuntzman, Episode #168 04.02.2026 1h 3min

  In this powerful and reassuring episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Devon Kuntzman — parenting educator, early childhood specialist, and author of Transforming Toddlerhood.If you’ve ever felt exhausted by tantrums, constant power struggles, hitting, biting, screaming, or endless “no’s,” this conversation will completely shift how you see toddler behavior.Devon helps parents understand one of the most important truths about early childhood: toddlers are not trying to manipulate, embarrass, or control us. Their behavior is communication rooted in an immature nervous system, developing brain, overwhelming emotions, and an intense need for connection and safety.Together, we unpack why traditional discipline approaches like punishment, threats, shame, and time-outs often backfire during the toddler years—and what children are actually learning when fear and control are used. Devon explains what’s happening inside a toddler’s brain during meltdowns, why emotional regulation and impulse control cannot yet be expected, and how parents can respond in ways that support long-term resilience, emotional health, and nervous system regulation.This episode is deeply validating for overwhelmed parents who are trying to parent differently while carrying the pressure of cultural expectations around obedience and behavior.Most importantly, Devon reminds us that discipline is not about control—it’s about teaching, connection, co-regulation, and helping children feel safe enough to grow.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why toddler behavior is communication, not manipulationWhat’s actually happening in the toddler brain during meltdownsWhy punishment and fear-based discipline often backfireThe difference between discipline and punishmentHow connection helps toddlers develop emotional regulationSupporting hitting, biting, refusal, and power struggles with compassion and boundariesWhy parents often feel triggered during toddlerhood—and what to do about itHow shifting from control to connection changes the parenting experience entirelyThis episode offers reassurance, insight, and a powerful reframe that many parents have been waiting for.Devon's Book "Transforming Toddlerhood: How to Handle Tantrums, End Power Struggles, and Raise Resilient Kids---Without Losing Your Mind" --> https://a.co/9AGhuXkDevon is a featured speaker at our 2026 Children's Mental Health and Parenting Summit. To register for this FREE event please visit: https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/summit-registration-spring-2026/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The Stories That Heal: Princess Noor of Jordan on Raising Emotionally Healthy Children, Episode #167 28.01.2026 54min

  In this deeply heartfelt episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Princess Noor of Jordan — author, mother, and passionate advocate for emotionally healthy childhoods.Together, we explore something many parents overlook: how stories can become powerful emotional tools for children struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, big feelings, and self-expression.Drawing from her beautiful children’s books Sometimes, Pandy’s Book of Thanks, and Whisper’s Journey, Princess Noor shares how storytelling can help children feel safe enough to name emotions, process difficult experiences, and build deeper self-worth, compassion, and emotional resilience.This conversation is filled with gentle wisdom for parents raising sensitive children in an overwhelming world. We talk about mindfulness, gratitude, emotional awareness, and the quiet moments of connection that often matter most. Princess Noor also shares how motherhood shaped her writing, how her Jordanian heritage influences the messages within her stories, and why emotional connection—not perfection—is what children remember most.If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child through big emotions without forcing conversations, this episode offers a beautiful reminder: sometimes healing begins with simply sitting together and reading a story.In This Episode, We Discuss:How storytelling helps children process emotions safelyWhy emotionally intelligent kids are built through connection, not correctionSupporting anxious, sensitive, or overwhelmed children through books and shared momentsTeaching mindfulness, kindness, gratitude, and compassion in everyday lifeThe emotional power of slowing down and being fully present with our childrenWhy stories often say what children cannot yet put into words themselves Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Big Kids, Bigger Feelings: Unlocking the Secrets of Emotion Regulation with Alyssa Black Campbell, Episode #166 21.01.2026 45min

  In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Alyssa Blask Campbell—educator, emotional-development expert, and author of the bestselling book Tiny Humans, Big Emotions. Alyssa invites us into the heart of her groundbreaking framework, the Collaborative Emotion Processing (CEP) method—a research-based approach designed to help parents and educators respond to children’s emotions with intention rather than reactivity.Through this rich conversation, Alyssa explains what it truly means to process emotions collaboratively, starting with the adult’s ability to regulate their own nervous system. She shares how the CEP method reframes emotional moments not as crises to fix, but as opportunities for connection and co-regulation. Together, we explore how this framework helps both parents and teachers move beyond behaviour management and into deeper relational understanding—where curiosity, empathy, and attunement replace power struggles and frustration.Alyssa’s insights offer a refreshing reminder that emotional intelligence begins with us. When adults pause, breathe, and reflect before reacting, they model the very skills children need to thrive. Her work bridges cutting-edge neuroscience with compassionate, practical tools that fit into everyday life—whether you’re navigating a toddler tantrum, a classroom meltdown, or the quiet undercurrent of stress in your own body.Tune in for an inspiring and empowering conversation about what it means to raise and teach with emotional awareness, and how cultivating calm within ourselves is the most powerful gift we can give the children in our care.Alyssa Blask Campbell, M.Ed., is an emotional development expert, teacher, parent, and the founder and CEO of Seed & Sew—a global platform dedicated to raising emotionally intelligent humans by supporting the adults who care for them. She holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and is the creator of the Collaborative Emotion Processing (CEP) method, a research-based framework that helps parents and educators respond to children’s emotions with intention rather than reactivity.Alyssa is also the host of the popular Voices of Your Village podcast and author of Tiny Humans, Big Emotions (HarperCollins), where she translates the science of emotional intelligence into practical, compassionate tools for everyday life. Her work has been featured in The Washington Post and other major outlets, and she has trained educators and families across the globe on how to build connection through co-regulation and nervous system awareness.LInk to Alyssa's books: Tiny Humans, Big Emotions , and Big Kids, Bigger Feelings Sensory Quiz: https://www.seedandsew.org/linksThe Parent Coach:We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust us, you’re going to want this in your back pocket. More details soon!The 2026 ICP Parenting Summit is coming!Join us March 16–19 for 35+ expert masterclasses and four interactive half-day workshops, featuring leading voices like Ross Greene, Laura Markham, Robert Melillo, Lawrence Cohen, Kim John Payne, and Jon Fogel. We’ll be diving into the topics parents need most: screens, discipline, anxiety, emotional regulation, neurodiversity, resilience, play, and more.The summit is completely free, and VIP packages include lifetime access, toolkits, certificates, and a digital copy of The Parenting Handbook.Click here to save your seat! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Kids Whine (and What Actually Helps): A Conversation with Tania & Tammy, Episode #165 14.01.2026 22min

  Whining can feel like nails on a chalkboard, especially when everyone is tired, stretched thin, or heading into (or out of) the holiday season. In this episode, Tania and Tammy unpack why kids whine, what’s happening beneath the behaviour, and how parents can respond in ways that reduce escalation and build connection.With their signature blend of warmth, humour, and clinical insight, they explore the real reasons kids slip into that grating tone, how stress and dysregulation fuel it, and why some children are more prone to whining than others. You’ll walk away with simple, compassionate strategies you can use right away to support emotional regulation, set clear boundaries, and guide your child back to calm.If whining has ever pushed your buttons (we’ve all been there!), this episode is for you.👀 Something Big Is Coming for Parents…We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust us, you’re going to want this in your back pocket. More details soon!The 2026 ICP Parenting Summit is coming!Join us March 16–19 for 35+ expert masterclasses and four interactive half-day workshops, featuring leading voices like Ross Greene, Laura Markham, Robert Melillo, Lawrence Cohen, Kim John Payne, and Jon Fogel. We’ll be diving into the topics parents need most: screens, discipline, anxiety, emotional regulation, neurodiversity, resilience, play, and more.The summit is completely free, and VIP packages include lifetime access, toolkits, certificates, and a digital copy of The Parenting Handbook.Click here to save your seat! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.