Robot Unicorn

Why do children sometimes show a clear preference for one parent over the other? In this episode, Jess and Scott explore the psychology and science of parental preference. Drawing on attachment theory, developmental research, and family dynamics studies, we break down why children choose favourites, what influences these patterns, and how parents can respond in ways that strengthen connection, reduce conflict, and support healthy development. 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/]!

Why do friendship conflicts feel so catastrophic for young girls? This week, Jess and Scott dive deep into the complex world of girl friendship drama, exploring why the tween and teen years are a hotbed for relational aggression like gossip, exclusion, and social maneuvering. Learn the crucial difference between normal conflict and bullying that requires your intervention. This episode is packed with insights and practical tips on becoming a 'friendship coach' for your daughter and supporting her in building resilient, healthy relationships. 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/]!

In this episode, Jess and Scott dive into the incredible power of shifting from a serious, stern approach to a playful one. They explore the brain science behind why play is a child's natural language, making them more receptive and cooperative. Discover the crucial difference between being playful and permissive, and learn how to maintain firm boundaries while still having fun. You'll leave with a toolbox of practical, easy-to-use strategies to transform stressful moments into opportunities for connection, even if you don't consider yourself a 'playful' person. For more on playful parenting, check out these episodes of Robot Unicorn: How To Become A Playful Parent [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-become-a-playful-parent/id1740816838?i=1000692997617] Is It Ok To Tease Your Kids? [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/is-it-ok-to-tease-your-kids/id1740816838?i=1000676474517] For easy games and playful tools to do with your kids, check out The Playful Parent Toolkit here. [https://nurturedfirst.com/shop/the-playful-parent-toolkit/] 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/]!

We're opening up the floor and answering your most-asked questions in this listener Q&A episode. We get personal about our recent ADHD diagnoses and how neurodivergence shows up differently for each of us in our marriage. Join us as we explore the heart-wrenching 'birthday sadness' of watching kids grow up, share our journey of getting a skeptical partner on board with a new parenting style, and offer our top tip for staying connected amidst the chaos. This episode is packed with stories, a little F1 banter, and real-life insights for any parent navigating similar challenges. This episode just touches the surface of many important topics. Check out the following episodes for more on these topics:  Listen to this episode if you’re looking for more about skeptical parents.  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-skeptic-husband-i-couldnt-see-the-value-in/id1740816838?i=1000669677881] Listen to this episode to learn more about how childhood trauma impacts parenting.  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-does-childhood-trauma-impact-your-parenting-with/id1740816838?i=1000668048108] Listen to this episode if you want more on staying connected with your partner after having kids.  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-love-my-kids-but-i-resent-my-partner-now-what-with-dr-tracy-d/id1740816838?i=1000708972111] 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/]!

Ever feel like the advice to 'just be consistent' isn't working for your family? In this episode, Jess and Scott dive into the power of 'flexible consistency' and why adapting to your child's needs is just as important as holding boundaries. They discuss how to shift your mindset from 'Why won't my child listen?' to 'Why can't they?', exploring concepts like temperament, skills gaps, and behaviour as communication. Learn how to become a 'behaviour detective' to understand the real reason behind your child's actions and move from frustration to a deeper, more effective connection. 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/]!