Post Traumatic Parenting

What happens when you desperately want to give your children the secure childhood you never had, but you have no instincts to guide you? Raising securely attached kids becomes incredibly complex when your own childhood left you with PTSD, depression, or chronic feelings of never being enough. Today I'm sitting down with Eli Harwood, the attachment expert.Together we explore why chronic childhood neglect often creates more lasting damage than single traumatic events, and how even well-intentioned parents can pass on trauma. Eli shares her personal journey of growing up with a mother who had severe PTSD and how that shaped her understanding of attachment. We discuss the difference between hovering and true presence, why your inner child might feel jealous of your actual children, and how to recognize when you're parenting from a place of your own unresolved wounds.Most importantly, we talk about how to break these generational patterns without falling into perfectionism or shame. This episode is a guide for any parent who's determined to raise securely attached kids, even when they're still healing themselves.Topics covered on Raising Securely Attached Kids:Why does chronic emotional neglect in childhood affect your parenting more than you might realize?What should you do when your inner child feels jealous of the care you're giving your own children?Why is feedback from your children so triggering when you grew up with an insecure attachment?How can you develop parenting instincts when your childhood didn't provide you with a healthy template?Why do we need other adults in our lives to help us regulate?What does "I got you AND you got you" really mean in raising securely attached kids?How do you handle the grief of watching your children grow and need you less when attachment was your biggest wound?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and check out my new book Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to BeFor full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/10/15/how-to-raise-sec…with-eli-harwood/

Have you ever caught yourself yelling at your kids and thought, "I sound just like my parents"? Peaceful parenting offers a different path—one that breaks the cycle of fear-based discipline without becoming permissive. I sit down with Sarah Rosensweet, certified peaceful parenting coach and founder of Reimagined Peaceful Parenting, to explore how we can set firm limits with empathy, even when our own childhoods were anything but peaceful.Sarah shares practical strategies for those morning battles over getting dressed, sibling fights that push every button, and why your "disobedient" child might actually be showing healthy development. We discuss the difference between dropping old authoritarian tools versus replacing them with connection-based approaches, how to build what Sarah calls the "goodwill bank" with your children, and why forcing a three-year-old to clean up spilled macaroni won't make them a helpful adult.If you're exhausted from power struggles and want to parent differently than you were raised but don't know where to start, this conversation gives you tools for peaceful parenting.Topics covered on Peaceful Parenting:What's the difference between peaceful parenting and just giving up on discipline altogether?How do you get your strong-willed toddler dressed without it becoming World War III every morning?Why does a child behave perfectly at school but fall apart at home - and is that actually okay?What can you do when sibling fights trigger memories of your own childhood conflicts?How do you explain to your partner that yelling isn't working when that's how they were raised?What is the "goodwill bank" concept and how does it help with teenage cooperation?How can you stay calm when your kids push every button you didn't even know you had?What's the real reason kids fight with their siblings (hint: it's not about the toy)?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and check out my new book Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to BeFor full show notes and more resources visit https://www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/10/01/peaceful-parenti…sarah-rosensweet/

What happens when mindful parenting feels impossible because you're still having nightmares about your own childhood? Today I'm talking with Hunter Clarke-Fields, bestselling author and host of the world's top parenting podcast. We get real about the shame of being the mom with the temper when society expects you to regulate everyone's emotions. Hunter shares how she went from cowering behind doors as a child to repeating her father's rage—until she discovered it was her nervous system, not her character, causing those explosive moments. We discuss why parenting books feel like guides from the lobby to the first floor when you're stuck in the sub-basement, and how self-compassion becomes your ladder out. Hunter explains her concept of "yelling skillfully," why being a perfect parent would actually damage your kids, and how practicing mindfulness in calm moments prepares you for the chaos. If you've ever felt like a failure because you can't just implement that great parenting advice, this conversation will change everything about how you approach those triggered moments.Topics covered on Mindful Parenting:How can post-traumatic parents implement mindful parenting practices to reduce reactivity and yelling?Why is self-compassion the necessary first step before trying to change your parenting behaviors?How does the expectation of "perfect parenting" actually harm both parents and children?What role does authentic emotional expression play in creating healthy parent-child relationships?How can mindful parenting practices help interrupt patterns of reactivity that we inherited from our own parents?Why do traditional parenting resources often fail post-traumatic parents?How can we model healthy emotional regulation for our children even when we're struggling?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and check out my new book Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be.For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/09/17/how-to-parent-wi…er-clarke-fields/

Have you ever struggled with intense emotions while parenting that seem to come out of nowhere? In today's episode, I sit down with Bonnie Weiss, an internationally known trainer in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). I was blown away by Bonnie's compassionate approach to understanding the complex parts within us that influence our parenting. She explains how IFS helps separate our reactive "parts" from our true self, allowing us to parent with more awareness and less shame. We explore how generational trauma creates "legacy burdens" that affect our parenting and discover practical techniques to release these burdens. What really resonated with me was Bonnie's explanation of how self-compassion enables us to become more curious about our children's behaviors instead of just reacting to them. If you're a parent who sometimes feels overwhelmed by anger, perfectionism, or shame, this conversation offers a gentle roadmap toward healing that will benefit both you and your children.Topics covered on Internal Family Systems Therapy:What exactly is Internal Family Systems therapy?How can parents identify and work with the different "parts" of themselves that show up during challenging parenting moments?What are "legacy burdens" and how can we prevent passing them to our children?How does Internal Family Systems therapy's unique approach to healing generational trauma work in practice?How can we handle parts of ourselves that we're ashamed of and don't want to accept?How does becoming curious about ourselves help us become more curious about our children?What resources are available for parents who want to try Internal Family Systems techniques but can't access therapy?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and check out my new book Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/08/25/when-your-parts-…ng-trauma-cycles/

Are you struggling with a child whose aggression triggers your own trauma responses? In today's episode on parenting boys peacefully, I'm joined by Tosha Schore, parenting coach and founder of the Parenting Boys Peacefully Project, to talk about how aggression is often fear in disguise.Tosha will share her mission of creating a more peaceful world "one sweet boy at a time" and offer practical ways to set loving limits without shaming our children. We'll discuss how our own trauma triggers can interfere with responding calmly, and Tosha introduces the concept of "listening partnerships" to help heal our reactions. As post-traumatic parents, knowing how to step in physically rather than lecture can make all the difference.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your child's aggressive behavior or struggled to know what to do when talking just makes things worse, this conversation will help you see your child's behavior—and your own reactions—in a whole new light.Topics covered on Parenting Boys Peacefully:What drives Tosha to help parents of boys with challenging behaviors, and how is she connecting her work Parenting Boys Peacefully to creating a more peaceful world?Why is aggression often "fear in disguise," and how does understanding this help us respond with empathy rather than punishment?How can setting "loving limits" look different from traditional discipline, and why does moving in physically rather than talking too much work better?How can parents who feel triggered by their child's aggression find ways to stay present without getting overwhelmed?Why does trying to talk children out of their feelings often backfire, and what alternatives work better?How can parents experiment with different approaches instead of feeling locked into one "right way" of parenting boys peacefully?How does society view aggression differently in boys versus girls, and what impact does this have on how we respond?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and check out my new book Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/08/20/parenting-boys-peacefully-helping-boys-express-emotions-safely

What if your "good" childhood still left emotional scars that impact your parenting? Emotional intelligence parenting requires us to confront our own histories, even when they seem picture-perfect on the surface. In today's episode, I speak with Stephanie Pinto, author of "From Chaos to Connection," who shares her remarkable story of how her body literally shut down through fainting episodes because she couldn't process certain emotions.We’ll discuss how well-meaning parents can unintentionally create emotional voids by teaching children to suppress "unacceptable" feelings. Stephanie will explain how naming emotions gives children crucial language for their inner experiences and demonstrates what true co-regulation looks like with concrete examples from her own family. You'll hear about emotion wheels, the polyvagal theory, and simple techniques to help children express big feelings safely. Most touchingly, Stephanie reveals how her personal struggles became her greatest strength as a parent. So if you've ever felt overwhelmed by your child's emotions or wondered why certain situations trigger extreme reactions in yourself, this conversation offers hope and steps forward.Topics covered on Emotional Intelligence Parenting:What is emotional intelligence parenting?How can trauma exist even in what we consider "good" childhoods?What happens in our bodies when we don't process emotions properly?Why is naming our emotions such a powerful tool for both adults and children?How can parents stay present with a child's big emotions without shutting them down?What does co-regulation look like in practice with an overwhelmed child?Why might our bodies "take us out" when emotions become too overwhelming?How can we turn our own struggles with emotional regulation into strengths as parents?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/06/10/emotional-intell…-stephanie-pinto

What if you could replace timeouts with a more effective approach that actually strengthens your connection with your child? Generation Mindful founder Suzanne Tucker joins me to explore the revolutionary "time-in" approach that's changing how parents respond to big emotions.As a mom of four who grew up in a "happy-happy" household, Suzanne will share how her own trauma and loss led her to create tools that give both children and parents permission to feel all emotions. You'll hear practical ways to implement emotional literacy in your home, from simple card games to creating dedicated calming spaces. Suzanne will explain why traditional timeouts can actually reinforce shame, while time-ins build emotional intelligence that lasts a lifetime. This conversation offers a refreshing perspective for any parent who's felt overwhelmed by tantrums or worried they're "doing it wrong." So if you've ever struggled to handle your child's big feelings (or your own), this episode will give you the roadmap to more peaceful, connected parenting without expecting perfection from yourself or your child.Topics covered on Generation Mindful:What happens when we grow up in families where only "happy" emotions are allowed?Why are timeouts harmful and how do "time-ins" offer a better alternative for both children and parents?What's the connection between emotional regulation and using concrete tools like Generation Mindful's card decks?Why does labeling a feeling as something we "have" rather than something we "are" make such a difference?How can we recognize when a child's difficult behavior is actually communication about unmet needs?What simple rituals can families implement to start building emotional literacy from an early age?How does permission to feel all emotions protect children from developing hidden trauma?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/05/26/how-generation-m…h-suzanne-tucker

Ever wonder if your trauma means you're destined to parent imperfectly? In today's episode, Theraplay expert Dafna Lender shares how all parents mess up - and that's actually okay!As a clinical psychologist and post-traumatic parent myself, I was fascinated by Dafna's perspective on how we can provide healthy childhoods despite our own wounds. She compassionately explains why parents with trauma histories often experience such crushing self-doubt and offers practical ways to rebuild connection through play. What struck me most was Dafna's story about a mother and adopted daughter who transformed their relationship over two years of treatment - proving healing is possible even in the most challenging circumstances. If you've ever frozen during a parenting moment, felt triggered by your child's behavior, or wondered if you're "too damaged" to parent well, this conversation will reassure you that repair is always possible. You'll learn why those moments when your kids push your buttons can become opportunities for growth rather than shame.Topics covered on Theraplay:How does parental trauma affect our ability to be responsive to our children's needs?Why do we feel like our children are "triggering" us, and what can we do about those moments?What happens when professionals exclude parents from their child's therapy sessions?How can theraplay help rebuild damaged relationships between parents and children?Why do parents without secure attachment models experience more self-doubt?How can we explain our trauma responses to our children in age-appropriate ways?How long does it really take to repair damaged attachments between parents and children?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/05/09/theraplay-healin…ith-dafna-lender

What if the way we parent is shaped more by culture than we realize? Multicultural parenting offers a fresh perspective on how families around the world build community and raise children. In today's episode, I sit down with Marina Lopes, a Brazilian American journalist and author of "Please Yell At My Kids," to explore how cultural traditions influence parenting decisions and what we can learn from them.We discuss the challenges American parents face, often raising children without the support systems found in other cultures, and how this independence can feel isolating. Marina shares her experiences from living and parenting across ten countries, offering stories that challenge assumptions and inspire new ways of thinking about family and community.Together, we explore the role of multigenerational relationships, the importance of creating a support network, and how traditions from around the world can help us rethink parenting norms. Tune in to discover how embracing different perspectives can make parenting a more connected and fulfilling experience!Topics covered on Multicultural Parenting:What can we learn from multicultural parenting practices around the world to challenge our assumptions and improve our own parenting?How does the American emphasis on independence impact parents and their sense of community?What unique postpartum traditions exist globally, and how can they inspire us to better support new parents?How can we embrace multicultural parenting to create a more inclusive and supportive parenting experience?How can we adapt global parenting traditions to fit our own lives and create a stronger sense of belonging?What surprising lessons can we take from cultures where parenting is a shared responsibility?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/04/23/multicultural-parenting-lessons-from-around-the-world-with-marina-lopes

What role does emotional regulation play in post-traumatic parenting, and how can it shape the way we connect with our kids? In today's episode, I sit down with Dajana Yoakley, a peaceful and playful parenting coach, to explore how neuroscience, mindfulness, and self-compassion can guide us through the challenges of raising children. Dajana shares her personal journey from corporate leadership to parenting, offering stories about navigating toddler tantrums, pre-teen autonomy, and everything in between.We discuss how to move away from control-based parenting and instead focus on fostering connection, respect, and empathy. Dajana explains why it’s essential to understand your child’s development and how your own emotional state can influence their behavior. We also talk about the importance of self-compassion, building a supportive community, and allowing children to express their individuality while maintaining boundaries. Tune in to hear how small shifts in perspective can make a big difference in your parenting approach.Topics covered on Emotional Regulation:How can post-traumatic parents navigate the triggers that arise when children assert their autonomy?How can we foster emotional regulation in both ourselves and our children?Why is it important to respect children’s preferences and individuality?What role does playfulness have in building stronger bonds with children?How can parents support their children’s autonomy while maintaining boundaries?What steps can post-traumatic parents take to build a supportive community and stay motivated on their parenting journey?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/04/11/how-emotional-re…h-dajana-yoakley/

What does raising strong-willed children really look like when life throws unexpected challenges your way? In today's episode, I sit down with Sonali Vongchusiri, a passionate advocate for parenting with humor and compassion, to explore how we can connect with our kids while honoring their unique needs—and our own. Sonali shares her personal experiences of parenting while navigating life with legal blindness and albinism, offering a fresh perspective on balancing visible and invisible challenges.We dive into the importance of embracing differences, processing emotions creatively, and fostering genuine connections with our children. Sonali’s stories will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even rethink how you approach parenting. Whether you’re raising a deeply feeling child, a strong-willed one, or both, this conversation is packed with relatable moments and practical ways to create a family dynamic where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.If you’ve ever wondered how to meet your child’s needs while staying true to yourself, this episode is for you. Join us as we explore how to parent with authenticity, humor, and heart.Topics covered on Raising Strong-Willed Children:How can we embrace our own differences and teach our children to celebrate theirs?What does it mean to balance visible and invisible needs in parenting, and how can we do it effectively?How can humor and creativity help us process emotions and connect with our kids in meaningful ways?What are the unique challenges of raising strong-willed children, and how can we navigate them with compassion?How can we use rituals and small moments to build deep, lasting connections with our children?How can we reframe challenges like dissociation or sensory sensitivities into opportunities for growth and connection?How can we empower our kids to handle difficult questions or situations with confidence and humor?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/03/19/raising-strong-w…nali-vongchusiri/

Are you feeling the weight of parental burnout and looking for relief? Parental burnout is a reality many of us face, but what if there were a way to navigate it with mindfulness and compassion? In today's episode, I sit down with Sally Arnold, a renowned mindfulness educator and parenting coach, to explore how small, practical mindfulness practices can make a significant difference in our lives as parents.We'll dive into the importance of community support and self-compassion, and how these elements can help us manage stress and build resilience. Sally will share her journey and insights, offering a fresh perspective on how to approach parenting challenges in today's fast-paced world. Join us as we discuss the impact of social media on parenting, the role of mindfulness in overcoming parental burnout, and the power of connecting with others who understand our struggles.Whether you're a parent seeking support or simply curious about mindfulness, this episode offers a heartfelt conversation that resonates with anyone navigating the complexities of parenting. Tune in and discover how to create a more mindful and connected parenting experience.Topics covered on Parental Burnout:What is parental burnout and why do most parents feel reluctant to admit they're experiencing parental burnout?What are the differences in parental burnout experiences between parents of young children and teenagers?Why is community support crucial for parents experiencing parental burnout?How can mindfulness help post-traumatic parents manage parental burnout and stress?What are the small, practical mindfulness practices that can make a big difference in your parenting?How do you start reclaiming joy when you're at the end of your rope as a parent?How can parents create a safe space for their children to express difficult emotions?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/03/11/the-truth-about-…ith-sally-arnold

Have you ever wondered how EMDR therapy can change the way we process trauma? Join me in today's episode as I sit down with Dr. Deborah Korn, a leading expert in EMDR, to explore the profound impact this therapy can have on healing traumatic memories. Together, we'll dive into the intricacies of how traumatic experiences get locked in our nervous system and how EMDR therapy helps in reprocessing these memories to reduce distress and foster healing. Dr. Korn will share her wealth of knowledge on the importance of a safe therapeutic relationship and how EMDR can facilitate post-traumatic growth. We'll also discuss the challenges of accessing therapy, the importance of working with well-trained therapists, and what questions to ask when choosing the right therapist for you. Join us for an engaging and informative discussion that will leave you with a deeper understanding of EMDR therapy and its role in trauma recovery.Topics covered on EMDR Therapy:What is EMDR therapy?How do traumatic memories become locked in the nervous system, and what impact does this have on trauma symptomatology?What are the common misconceptions about EMDR therapy, and how does it differ from other therapeutic approaches?How can EMDR therapy help us process and heal from past traumas that affect our present lives?How can EMDR therapy help integrate new positive beliefs and perspectives?What are the misconceptions about PTSD triggers, and how can understanding them improve our parenting?How can clients ensure they are working with a well-trained EMDR therapist, and what questions should they ask?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/02/19/emdr-therapy-for…-dr-deborah-korn

Are you ready to confront the invisible bruises that linger from your past? In today's episode, we'll talk about breaking the cycle of family trauma with my guest, Dr. Kaytee Gillis, a psychotherapist and author with a passion for working with survivors of relationship and family trauma. As a fellow advocate for trauma survivors, Kaytee will share her journey and expertise in helping individuals heal from the scars of psychological abuse.We'll discuss the importance of acknowledging the trauma of absence, such as neglect and abandonment, and how these invisible wounds can impact our lives. Kaytee and I share our passion for a complex trauma-informed approach, emphasizing that healing is a journey, not a destination. We'll also touch on the societal perceptions of trauma and how they have evolved over time.Join us as we’ll navigate the path to self-awareness and healing, offering a candid conversation about the realities of breaking free from harmful patterns. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience and the power of understanding our past to create a better future for ourselves and our children.Topics covered on Breaking the Cycle of Family Trauma:What is one of the often-overlooked traumas?How have societal perceptions of trauma evolved in the last years?What is Kaytee's book "Invisible Bruises" about?What does it mean to break the cycle of family trauma?How can you avoid repeating harmful patterns with your children?How do we navigate the complexities of post-traumatic parenting?What are the challenges of understanding trauma beyond physical abuse?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/02/05/invisible-bruise…th-kaytee-gillis

Welcome back to another episode of the Post Traumatic Podcast! For today's episode, I invited another special guest, Sarah Hoover—the author of the book Motherload, who will share her raw and honest birth trauma story and how it redefined her motherhood journey.We'll talk about the unspoken challenges of postpartum depression and the societal pressures that often leave new mothers feeling isolated. Sarah will open up about her personal struggles, revealing the vulnerability and courage it took to confront her own truths. We'll discuss the importance of empathy and trauma-informed care in transforming the childbirth experience, and why sharing these stories is crucial for breaking the cycle of shame and silence.This conversation is not just about motherhood; it's about understanding the profound impact of birth trauma on our lives and the power of speaking our truths. Tune in to hear Sarah's story and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of motherhood in today's world.Topics covered on Birth Trauma Story:Sarah's birth trauma story and the hidden challenges of motherhood that she revealed in her book.How does trauma influence maternal instincts and the parenting journey?Why is the myth of instant maternal love a disservice to new mothers?How can empathy and trauma-informed care transform the childbirth experience?What role does societal pressure play in shaping a mother's mental health?The long-term effects of postpartum depression on both mothers and their families.How can mothers advocate for themselves in a medical system that often overlooks trauma?Why is it crucial for healthcare providers to understand and address trauma in their practice?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/01/22/the-motherload-sarah-hoovers-birth-trauma-story

Are you ready to discover the secrets to building resilience in children? For today's episode, I invited Dr. Tovah Klein, a renowned psychologist and author, who shares her expertise on nurturing resilience in kids. We will explore the five foundational pillars that support resilience and discuss how parents can help their children navigate life's uncertainties. Dr. Klein offers thoughtful perspectives on managing emotions, understanding the impact of our own trauma on parenting, and finding the balance between support and independence. We will also address common parenting challenges, such as dealing with selective mutism and the importance of accepting children for who they are. Tune in to learn how to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages your child's growth and adaptability. This episode will provide you with a fresh perspective on parenting and resilience, leaving you with plenty to think about and apply in your own family life!Topics covered on Building Resilience in Children:How to build resilience in children during uncertain times?What are the five pillars of building resilience in children, and how do they help kids thrive?Why is it crucial to allow children to experience all emotions?What strategies can help parents avoid over-involvement in their child's life?The importance of accepting your children for who they are, and how it affects their development.How can parents manage their own triggers while supporting their children?How can you support your kids in developing independence and self-agency?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2025/01/08/building-resilie…tegies-that-work

How can the Hand in Hand Parenting approach transform your relationship with your child? In today's episode, we explore this question with Emily Murray, a certified Hand in Hand Parenting instructor. You'll discover how this approach emphasizes building strong connections through five essential tools that can reshape how you interact with your children. Emily shares her personal experiences and insights into how understanding emotional triggers can lead to more meaningful parenting moments.We'll dive into the practical aspects of listening partnerships and special time, offering a fresh perspective on how these techniques can help you reconnect with your child. Emily's journey from struggling with parenting challenges to becoming an advocate for this approach provides relatable and inspiring stories that every parent can learn from.Join us as we discuss the nuances of setting boundaries while maintaining a nurturing environment, and how humor and empathy can enhance your parenting style. Tune in to explore how the Hand in Hand Parenting approach can make a difference in your everyday interactions.Topics covered on Hand in Hand Parenting Approach:What is the Hand in Hand parenting approach, and how can it transform your relationship with your child?How can understanding your emotional triggers improve your parenting?Why is being truly listened to so powerful for both parents and children?How can humor and empathy play a crucial role in effective parenting?What are stealth special time and play listening, and how can they help reconnect you with your child?How can you provide a supportive environment for your child to express emotions while maintaining consistent boundaries?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2024/12/18/the-hand-in-hand…s-with-your-kids/

Are you curious about developing friendship skills in kids? Join me in today's episode as I explore this vital topic with Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, a renowned psychologist and author. We'll dive into the common myths surrounding children's self-esteem and why these misconceptions might be holding them back. You'll discover how focusing on connection, competence, and choice can help your child develop a healthy sense of self and navigate social challenges with confidence.We'll also tackle the crucial distinction between bullying and ordinary meanness, offering strategies for parents to address each situation appropriately. For post-traumatic parents, Dr. Kennedy-Moore shares insights on managing personal triggers and fostering empathy in your parenting approach. Additionally, we'll discuss the impact of social media on children's friendships and how to guide them in building genuine connections.This episode is full of thoughtful discussions and practical strategies to support your child's social development. Whether you're dealing with friendship struggles or simply want to enhance your child's social skills, this conversation offers valuable perspectives and tools to help you along the way. Tune in now!Topics covered on Developing Friendship Skills in Kids:What are the common myths about children's self-esteem, and why are they misleading?How can post-traumatic parents help their children focus on connection, competence, and choice to build a healthy sense of self?Why is it important to distinguish between bullying and ordinary meanness, and how can parents address each?How can post-traumatic parents manage their triggers when their children's social struggles arise?What strategies can parents use to encourage empathy and effective communication in their children?How does the concept of a "quiet ego" contribute to a child's development, and why is it beneficial?In what ways can parents support their children in navigating social feedback and building resilience?What are the implications of labeling every negative interaction as bullying, and how can this affect children?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2024/12/04/developing-friendship-skills-in-kids-a-guide-for-post-traumatic-parents/

Are you curious about art therapy and how it could help you and your children process trauma? In today's episode, I sit down with Leah Guzman, an art therapist, artist, and author, to explore the profound impact of art therapy on emotional healing. We'll dive into how art can serve as a powerful tool for expressing emotions that words often fail to capture. Leah shares her unique techniques, like using colors to convey feelings and creating art journals, which can be particularly beneficial for both children and parents navigating the complexities of trauma. We'll also discuss the importance of self-care for parents and how balancing formal art training with personal creativity can enhance the therapeutic process.Whether you're a parent looking to support your child's emotional well-being or someone interested in the healing potential of art, this episode offers valuable perspectives and resources. Tune in to discover how art therapy can become a meaningful part of your journey toward healing and connection with your loved ones.Topics covered on Art Therapy:How can art therapy help children and adults process trauma?What role does creativity play in post-traumatic parenting?How can parents use art to connect with their children?What are some effective art therapy techniques for emotional expression?Why is it important for parents to engage in creative activities with their children?How can art journals serve as a therapeutic tool for kids?How can art therapy be a soft entry point for children in counseling?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2024/11/21/healing-connecti…with-leah-guzman/

Are you ready to transform your parenting approach with conscious communication? In today's episode, we're diving into the world of conscious communication with our children in a way that fosters respect, understanding, and emotional growth. Joined by Lori Petro, founder of Teach Through Love, we explore the profound impact of our words and how they shape our children's lives. You'll discover the power of shifting from punitive to empathetic language and learn practical strategies to connect with your kids on a deeper level.We'll discuss the challenges of breaking free from the communication patterns we inherited and how to create a nurturing environment that supports both parents and children. Whether you're dealing with a messy room or a child who struggles with homework, this episode offers insights into addressing these everyday issues with compassion and clarity. Tune in to learn how to regulate your own emotions, repair relationships, and build a foundation of trust and love with your children. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your parenting skills and create lasting positive change in your family's dynamic.Topics covered on Conscious Communication:What is conscious communication and how can it transform your parenting approach?Why is shifting your perspective crucial in parenting, especially for post-traumatic parents?What are Conscious Communication Cards?How can Conscious Communication Cards change the way you communicate with your children?How can emotional regulation techniques improve your interactions with your children?What are effective strategies for repairing and strengthening relationships with your children, even if mistakes have been made?Connect with me on Instagram @dr.koslowitzpsychology and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel Post Traumatic Parenting.For full show notes and more resources visit www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/2024/11/06/conscious-communication-how-to-effectively-communicate-with-your-children/