Parenting Issues

Cold and flu season: Helping kids take medications

In this episode of Parenting Issues, our host Nicole sits down with Carissa Menard, a Child Life Specialist, to share practical strategies for making medicine time less stressful for both kids and parents. Discover why children resist medication and learn actionable tips like offering choices, using distractions, and even creative solutions like flavoring or medical play. Carissa also shares insights on how to support your child’s emotional well-being during illness and build long-term positive habits around taking medicine. Whether your little one is a picky patient or just feeling under the weather, this episode is packed with expert advice to make flu season a little smoother. Don’t miss Carissa’s valuable resources and her heartwarming approach to parenting through tough moments. Contact Carissa: Instagram : @heartsconnectedllc Website:  www.heartsconnected.org [http://www.heartsconnected.org] Follow us on instagram: @parenting.issues Download Levelty app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073 [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073]

How to build resilience in kids: Expert tips from a child life specialist

Let's dive into the transformative topic of resilience with Allie Jones, a Child Life Specialist and author who supports families through life’s toughest moments. Together, we'll unpack the foundations of resilience, why it’s critical for children, and how parents can nurture this essential skill. What you'll learn: * What resilience is and its five key components: internal assets, external resources, relationships, family dynamics, and faith/spirituality. * Strategies for helping kids turn challenges into growth opportunities - whether it's a tough test, bullying, or a major life change. * Practical tools for parents to model and teach resilience, including emotional regulation, gratitude, and collaborative problem-solving. * How to empower kids to navigate adversity with courage and confidence. Whether your child is facing a small setback or a major challenge, this episode equips you with the tools to help them thrive and grow stronger through life’s storms. Contact Allie: Instagram : @child_life_to_go Website:  www.childlifetogo.co [https://childlifetogo.co/] Follow us on instagram: @parenting.issues Download Levelty app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073 [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073]

Helping kids face fear and apprehension

In this episode of Parenting Issues Podcast, we dive deep into the role fear plays in a child’s development with our expert guest, Stephanie Schurkens, a Licensed Associate Counselor and specialist in child and teen anxiety. Stephanie shares practical strategies for helping kids confront and manage their fears, empowering them to build resilience and a stronger mindset. Discover how to identify apprehension triggers, support your child in navigating challenging emotions, and foster a sense of confidence that lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re parenting a child prone to anxiety or looking to strengthen your family's emotional toolkit, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss! Tune in and learn how embracing fear can lead to triumph for your kids - and peace of mind for you. Contact Stephanie: Instagram : @supportinganxiouskids Website:  www.marigoldcounselingco.com [https://www.marigoldcounselingco.com] Follow us on instagram: @parenting.issues Download Levelty app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073 [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073]

Mastering executive functioning skills in kids and teens

Welcome to the new episode of the show where real parents meet real therapists to tackle real problems! Today our guest is is Emily Hawe, an Educational Consultant who specializes in ADHD and executive functioning support for kids and teens. She also provides valuable strategies for parents to help their children build these essential skills. Contact Emily: Instagram : @mindlaunchers Website:  www.mindlaunchers [http://www.mindlauncgers.com].com [http://www.mindlaunchers.com]  [http://www.mindlaunchers.com] Follow us on instagram: @parenting.issues Download Levelty app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073 [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073]

How parental emotions shape kids: The role of play therapy

Today our guest is Michelle Wayman, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Synergetic Play Therapist, Supervisor, Parent Coach, and, most importantly, a mom herself. Contact Michelle: Instagram : @mwcounselingandcoaching  Website: www.mwcounseling.care [https://www.mwcounseling.care] Follow us on instagram: @parenting.issues   Download Levelty app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073 [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/levelty-parents-family-chores/id6504560073]