Reflective Parenting by Curious Neuron

Send us Fan MailYou’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 overloadHow sensory sensitivities (sound, touch, movement) shape your child’s emotions and behaviorThe difference between a tantrum and a meltdown and why that mattersWhy co-regulation starts with your calm nervous systemThe mindset shift that helps you see behavior through compassion instead of controlIf 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 NeurodiversityFollow Laura on Instagram @theotbutterflySupport the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailDo 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 overwhelmingThis 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-xSupport the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailParents, 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=1000596000285Support the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailThis 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=677093716477570Read a science article about this:Predicting child problem behaviour at school age: The role of maternal sensitivity, child temperament and theory of mindSupport the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailThis 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 itHow to use music at home to motivate your child, calm meltdowns, and create playful routinesSimple steps to build meaningful playlists for relaxation or focusThe truth about common music therapy myths (including the “Mozart Effect”)How to find a qualified music therapist in your areaIf 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 showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailI 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 showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailIs 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.TakeawaysKindergarten 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=1000720552759https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000715100953Support the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailIn 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 ProspectiveStudyWatch it on YouTube:https://youtu.be/TOURlBqtmIcSupport the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailAre 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=AfrHaOtasFd2529qListen to this podcast to learn more about parenting styles:Nurturing a secure attachment with reflection skillsThe Science of Modern ParentingSupport the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Send us Fan MailHave 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=1000640865943Below 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.pdfThe blog post related to this podcast:https://curiousneuron.com/2025/07/20/child-conflict-stress-response-behaviour/Watch it on YouTube:https://youtu.be/NwH988IDIi4Support the showDo you find yourself reacting in ways you wish you could change when your child is upset? Learn how to stay calm, manage your emotions, and respond in a way that actually helps your child.Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12sOr purchase our course, join the next 8 week group cohort in April 2026 below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/