Robot Unicorn

Inspired by a listener's email, this episode dives into the parts of parenting that often go undiscussed. Jess and Scott move beyond simplistic 'self-care' advice to explore realistic ways to nurture yourself amidst the chaos, especially when you feel burnt out and unsupported. Learn the critical difference between being tired and true burnout, discover how to effectively repair your relationship after you've lost your cool, and understand why self-compassion might be the most powerful tool a parent has. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.  Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/]  Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/]  Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]  Learn more about The Anger Course here [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/the-anger-course/]!

Tired of being the referee in constant sibling battles? This episode tackles a listener's question about managing the chaos of sibling play, especially between toddlers and preschoolers. We explore the developmental science behind why forcing a two-year-old to share is often a recipe for disaster. Discover a powerful mindset shift from being a frustrated 'referee' to an effective 'coach' who guides children through conflict. Learn practical strategies for fair turn-taking and how to build a loving, supportive team dynamic that will help your kids' relationship flourish for years to come. Listen to the impulse control episode Jess mentions in the episode here.  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/impulse-control-what-every-parent-needs-to-know/id1740816838?i=1000710848243] Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.  Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/]  Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/]  Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]  Learn more about The Anger Course here [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/the-anger-course/]!

When your sweet child suddenly starts using shocking language, it can be deeply unsettling - but this episode explains why it's often a normal developmental phase rather than a character flaw. Jess and Scott explore how children transition from physical to verbal aggression as they grow, and why words like 'stupid,' 'I hate you,' or even cursing serve different purposes from getting attention to expressing big emotions.  You'll learn practical strategies for responding without accidentally reinforcing rude language, how to maintain boundaries without shaming, and the fascinating connection between ADHD and verbal outbursts. Whether your child is experimenting with shocking words or using language as a weapon when angry, this episode provides the developmental context and practical tools you need to navigate this challenging but normal phase. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net [podcast@robotunicorn.net].  Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/]  Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/]  Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]  Learn more about The Anger Course here [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/the-anger-course/]!

Jess and Scott dive deep into the controversial topic of timeouts, examining whether they're truly the evidence-based discipline method many claim. They explore how typical timeout implementation can potentially harm parent-child attachment and fail to teach children the emotional regulation skills they need.  Listeners will gain insights into more developmentally appropriate alternatives like 'time-ins' and learn how to critically evaluate evidence-based parenting claims by asking: 'evidence-based for what outcome, under what conditions, and with what potential trade-offs?' Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.  Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/]  Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/]  Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]  Learn more about The Anger Course here [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/the-anger-course/]!

Jess and Scott break down what research says about approaches like spanking, harsh verbal discipline, threats and bribes — and why authoritative parenting (balancing warmth with structure) leads to better outcomes. This episode is perfect for parents who are curious about non-punitive strategies or who want to raise cooperative kids without relying on fear or control. If you want to learn more about parenting without punishments, check out the Parenting Little Kids course here.  [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/parenting-little-kids/] Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.  Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/]  Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/]  Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]  Learn more about The Anger Course here [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/the-anger-course/]!