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Raised Resilient: Help Your Highly Sensitive Child
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Raised Resilient: Help Your Highly Sensitive Child

Author: Dr. Hilary Mandzik - Psychologist

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Parenting is the hardest job ever – and parenting a highly sensitive child who’s struggling can feel downright impossible.

If you’re suffering through endless meltdowns, walking on eggshells to avoid your child’s huge emotions, and losing sleep worrying that you’re failing your child, you’ve landed in the right place.

I’m Dr. Hilary Mandzik – clinical psychologist, parenting specialist, and mom of 3. And I’m here to help you feel GOOD about parenting your highly sensitive child.

Join me each week on the Raised Resilient podcast as we explore the topics parents worry about most when it comes to raising highly sensitive kids: managing meltdowns, building emotion regulation, understanding highly sensitive kids, making sense of challenging behaviors, building self-esteem, finding parenting strategies that actually work *with* your child’s sensitivity ... and everything in between.

I’ll help you understand your child’s behavior (and your reactions to it!) so that even the really hard moments make more sense. I’ll empower you with tools, strategies, and scripts to navigate those really hard moments with connection and confidence. (And I’ll remind you that no tool, strategy, or script is as powerful as your parenting ace – your relationship with your child!)

I’m passionate about parenting differently – parenting in a way that sees all kids as good, even when they’re struggling. I’m passionate about breaking unhelpful generational cycles and putting a hard stop to spanking, time outs, shaming, and yelling. I’m passionate about helping highly sensitive kids build the skills they need in order to manage their big emotions successfully ... and parents learning to regulate their own emotions alongside their children. I want to help you stop worrying about whether you’re “raising them right” and feel confident that your kids will grow up trusting themselves and feeling comfortable in their skin … because they were raised resilient.

And that’s big. Because raising our kids resilient can literally make this world a better place.

Listen, parenting is hard no matter how you do it. You won’t “enjoy every moment”, no matter what that lady at the store says. But I’m here to help you go from just barely surviving to parenting in a way that genuinely feels good, for you and your highly sensitive child.

So warm up your coffee and grab your ear buds. It’s time to turn your child’s sensitivity into their SUPERPOWER!

Connect with me:

https://www.raisedresilient.com/

IG: @raisedresilient

Schedule your FREE Breakthrough Session: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough

Do YOU have a highly sensitive child? Take my FREE QUIZ to find out: https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz

Major themes: parenting highly sensitive / deeply feeling kids; cycle breaking; building emotion regulation; generational healing; respectful parenting; gentle parenting; peaceful parenting; attachment theory / building a secure attachment
121 Episodes
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In this episode, you’ll meet Aida, a mom of two, who went from feeling completely disconnected and overwhelmed to feeling confident and connected with her highly sensitive daughter. Throughout the interview, you’ll hear Aida's inspiring story of overcoming challenges and finding peace of mind in her parenting approach. Aida shares how she shifted from feeling like a failure to truly showing up for her children in a meaningful way during her time in my Chaos to Connection program. She discusses the steps she took to break the cycle of her own childhood trauma and create a nurturing environment for her family.  Tune in to hear Aida's transformative journey and discover how you can apply her experiences to your own parenting. If you are parenting a highly sensitive child while also trying to overcome childhood trauma, Aida’s story will reassure you that you are not alone. And if you are struggling in your journey, click the link below for a totally free breakthrough call with me to see if my program could be a good fit for your family.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset 
Is screen time taking over your child’s routine? In this episode, we're diving into part one of a two-part series on setting up your highly sensitive kids for success with screens. It's easy for screen time to increase (especially during school breaks!), but don't worry – I've got 5 tips that can help you manage it effectively. Screens can suppress emotions and sensory processing, cutting off feelings while we scroll – and kids are no different. Learn how to navigate this tricky terrain to ensure your child stays emotionally balanced and engaged, even during screen time. Tune in to get these game-changing strategies— Plus, don’t miss next week’s part 2 episode for handling meltdowns when screen time is ending. And remember, if you're struggling with parenting your sensitive child, my Chaos to Connection program is here to support you. Book a breakthrough call and start transforming your family dynamics today! FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Wondering what to do instead of punishing your highly sensitive child? You landed in the right place. This episode uncovers why punishment isn't the best route and shares practical alternatives for long-term success. Here's the deal: Any approach that pits us against our child creates an unsafe environment and stunts positive development. By managing tough moments without punishment, we build safety and connection that truly lasts. From lost soccer balls to poolside incidents, hear my personal stories on how avoiding punishment leads to better outcomes. Gain big wins with actionable tips that support your child's growth and strengthen your bond. FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Have you felt stuck between different parenting styles in a divorced relationship? Or even in a current relationship? This week’s episode dives into a listener’s question about supporting your child when a co-parent doesn’t parent the same way. It’s a common struggle, so this episode aims to offer valuable insight. You see, allowing each parent to parent their own way is crucial, though it can feel even tougher for a highly sensitive child. But with a little courage and a lot of validation, you can reach a point of encouraging your child to maintain their own unique relationship with each parent. Tune in to learn how to navigate these challenging dynamics and find a balance that helps your child thrive. And if you need more support, check out past episodes where you’ll find more about co-parenting.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Ever find yourself relying on screen time to keep your little ones occupied? In this episode, I share the magical trick I discovered this past weekend that encouraged my 3-year-old to play independently for longer stretches. It’s all about creating an environment that supports independent play, without resorting to endless TV hours. Creating a developmentally appropriate play space is crucial, and I dive into how easy it can be to fall into the screen time trap out of sheer desperation. But what if one simple change could transform your child's playtime and give you some much-needed breathing room? Tune in to uncover the game-changing fix that made a world of difference in our home. This episode will inspire you to make small, impactful adjustments that foster independent play and reduce screen time, all while supporting your child's growth and creativity. FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Ever notice how sibling dynamics shift when one child is highly sensitive? In this episode, we dive into this intricate family dance. Sibling conflict is normal and healthy, but it can get pretty triggering—especially with a deeply feeling child in the mix. If your family has been impacted by one (or more!) child's deep feelings and sensitivities, this episode will offer fresh insights into those sibling dynamics. I’ll reveal three eye-opening ways a highly sensitive child can alter sibling relationships and share practical tips for managing the big emotions. Tune in for strategies to handle these challenges, and remember, if you're feeling overwhelmed, my Chaos to Connection program can help transform your family life. Book your breakthrough call below. FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/minds
Picture this: One hot afternoon, my kids and I were playing outside when an argument erupted, causing one of my sons to storm inside in a fit of rage. Have you been there before too? It can be so hard trying to remain calm while managing HUGE emotions, and keeping your child from doing any real harm.  But, we were able to get through this with one silly game, and two ice pops. Tune in to this personal episode about the effect of transitions, sibling rivalry, and regulating anger. Here’s the thing: Even meltdowns are an opportunity for creating connection, and I’ll let you in on how I did it.  And if this sounds all too familiar and you’re desperately seeking change within your family, schedule a Breakthrough Call to see if my Chaos to Connection program would be a good fit for your family. We’ll talk through all things raising sensitive kids together and I’ll point you in the right direction. Click the link below to hop on my schedule! FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Recently, a thoughtful listener sent in a question about their child being unkind to a friend. Seeing kids be mean to their friends can be incredibly triggering, stirring up fears about their ability to maintain friendships in the future or even worries about them being alone. But it’s important to remember that kids are still learning. They might not have enough life experience to predict how someone will react without trying it out.  You see, sometimes kids will say things like "I hate you" out of curiosity rather than anger, just to see what happens. Instead of shaming them, or telling them not to do it again, we can instead ground ourselves in a developmental perspective. We can get curious about why a child said those words and ask questions to understand their experience.  Because here’s the thing: when we validate our highly sensitive child’s experience and emotions, they feel much more comfortable to continue talking about these experiences in the future. There is always room for compassion! And, don’t forget to check out my brand new resource: “10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know” (linked below), if you want to get even more inside the brain of your highly sensitive child.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Have you ever taken your kids on a fun outing, only to face meltdowns once you get home? In this episode, I share my personal experience with this all-too-common scenario amongst highly sensitive children.  Recently, I took my 3 kids to an off-Broadway production of The Lion King. We had an amazing time, but on the car ride home, traffic hit, and chaos ensued. It was frustrating and triggering, especially after such a fun day. This experience reminded me that even the best outings can be stressful for our highly sensitive kids. They often hold it together during the excitement but release all their pent-up emotions once it's over. Tune in as I share a couple of tips to make your outings feel more successful and enjoyable for everyone. Plus, I introduce a new free resource: "10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know." This guide is a game-changer, helping you understand and support your highly sensitive child like never before. Click the link below to download your free copy right away! FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz FREE Guide: 10 Things Your Highly Sensitive Child Needs You to Know: https://www.raisedresilient.com/10things Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset 
Feeling dread when it’s after school pick-up time? If you’re a parent of a highly sensitive child, you know exactly what I mean. The meltdowns, snarky responses, and tears can feel inevitable. It’s because, as their safe attachment figure, your child feels secure enough to let out all their pent-up emotions from the day once they see you. I recently shared an Instagram reel about this very struggle, and it hit home for so many parents. Highly sensitive kids often get stuck in a dysregulation cycle, where they’re overwhelmed and end up releasing all those big emotions right after school. In this episode, you’ll hear 3 tips that are tried and true for preparing for and managing school pickup with your highly sensitive child. These strategies can make this transition smoother for both you and your child, turning after-school dread into a more manageable part of your day. And if you feel your struggles are reaching new levels, let’s connect! Book a free breakthrough call below and we will discuss what’s working and what’s not in your parenting journey.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Shilpa was an overwhelmed mom of 4 kids under 5 who had tried everything — even quitting her job — to fix what wasn’t working in parenting (especially with her highly sensitive oldest child). From negative self-talk to beginning to dread each morning, Shilpa felt she had exhausted all her options, and she began to desperately seek change. In this week's episode, I interview Shilpa about her family’s experience in my Chaos to Connection program. Hear her share how her home now actually feels peaceful, and she’s happy about how she’s parenting for the first time ever.  Shilpa’s story will help you realize you are not alone. If Shilpa’s story resonates with you and you are tired of the daily struggle, let’s talk! Click the link below and schedule a free Zoom session with me where we’ll talk about what’s working in your parenting & what might not be, and how Chaos to Connection might be a good fit for your family.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
In this episode, we dive deep into three shame-inducing thoughts that many parents of highly sensitive children experience. Drawing from my program and countless conversations with parents, I share the common worries and fears expressed by those seeking support. It’s true, many of us didn't have our emotional needs met as children, leaving us unsure of how to help our own kids regulate their emotions. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and the misconception that we're the only ones struggling with these dark thoughts. I discuss the three main thoughts I frequently hear during initial calls with prospective clients and how these thoughts often make parents feel like they're held hostage by their child's emotions. You see, here’s the thing: this does not have to be your reality. This episode will show you that you are not alone. I've been there too, and I know that resilience and healthy communication skills can transform your family dynamics. And if you are struggling and this sounds like you - book a free call. We will come up with a plan of action together so you feel better able to handle any thoughts coming your way. FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
In this Parenting Reflections episode, I share a candid account of my family's recent trip to Disney World. With three highly sensitive kids in tow, we made extra efforts to ensure their comfort and enjoyment. From splurging on Genie+ to booking separate rooms for better sleep, every decision was made with their needs in mind. Flexibility was key as we embarked on each day, knowing that plans might need to shift or a child might require a break. I discuss the steps we took to anticipate and manage potential meltdowns, from recognizing triggers to providing downtime when needed. Listen in as I recount the highs and lows of our Disney adventure, including sibling squabbles, thrilling new rides, and the heart-wrenching loss of a beloved stuffed animal. And don't forget to check out my previous episode on vacationing with kids for more tips and insights! FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Ever wondered if rough and tumble play is right for your highly sensitive child? In this episode, we dive into why it's not only okay but also crucial for their growth and development. I share four ways rough and tumble play can benefit highly sensitive children, from building resilience to fostering social skills. But safety first! Of course it is important to monitor play sessions, ensuring boundaries are respected, and promptly addressing any injuries. With the right supervision, rough and tumble play can offer invaluable opportunities for physical, emotional, and social growth. Tune in to hear practical tips on setting up your home environment to encourage this type of play, including choosing age-appropriate toys and creating safe spaces for exploration. Don't miss this episode on why rough and tumble play is an essential part of childhood, especially for highly sensitive children. FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Did you ever realize that your child's high sensitivity might be a mirror reflecting your own? In this episode, I take you on a personal journey back to my own childhood, where I grappled with being highly sensitive, often feeling overwhelmed by emotions and retreating to my room to cry when things felt too intense. I share the shame and isolation I felt growing up, feeling too much and too deeply, and how these experiences initially left me confused and easily hurt. It wasn't until I became a parent to a highly sensitive child that I began to truly understand and appreciate the depth of my own feelings. In this episode, we'll explore how recognizing your own sensitivity can illuminate your parenting path and deepen your connection with your child. Here’s the thing: it’s important to recognize sensitivity not as a burden, but as a superpower. I’ll let you in on a secret – when we recognize sensitivity as a superpower, we can pay more attention to how we respond to big feelings, which equals a more nurturing and supportive family environment. FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Have you ever been in the middle of a store when your child suddenly has a meltdown? It's tough, right? In today's episode, I share a personal story about my own son's public meltdown and how I managed to navigate that situation. You see, there’s a difference between a child giving you a hard time, and having a hard time. The shame and anger you may feel during a public meltdown are valid, but what if we could shift those feelings all together, and instead think ahead to handling the meltdown more efficiently? For this, I’ll provide three practical strategies to help you prepare for and handle public meltdowns. And listen further for a chance to win a sensory kit of your choice from Young, Wild & Friedman!  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Do you feel like all the parenting responsibilities just automatically end up on your plate? You're not alone. In this episode, I dive into my own journey as the 'default parent,' a role I slipped into almost without noticing when we had our first child. As I stayed home and stepped away from my career, I found myself managing everything from night feedings to daily outings, never having a moment to myself. I quickly became overwhelmed and exhausted with the weight of parenting on my shoulders. I even felt resentful towards my husband. But, this one realization allowed me to recognize that it wasn’t either of our faults, and there was a way to shift the dynamic. Here’s the thing: You can continue silently bearing the weight of parenting for both partners. Or, you can begin to shift and make lasting changes. Addressing the default parent syndrome earlier can transform your relationship with your partner, and enhance family life for everyone involved. Tune in to learn how to start this essential conversation and take steps towards a balanced parenting partnership.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset 
Have you ever considered therapy for your highly sensitive child, hoping it might be the key to managing their meltdowns and aggressive behaviors at home? If so, this episode offers a different point of view along with 5 reasons that may change your mind. As a former play therapist and owner of a private practice, I've worked with many highly sensitive children who behaved picture perfect during sessions. And yet, the stories I'd hear from their parents painted a very different picture, one filled with emotional outbursts and challenges. This led me to a crucial realization about therapy and highly sensitive children. Here’s the bottom line: traditional child therapy might not be the best approach for highly sensitive kids. Why? It all comes down to the parent-child relationship. Tune in to this week’s episode to hear my opinion on the best route of intervention, and why being your child’s safe figure can help set your child up for long-term success.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset 
Have you ever dreamed of taking a trip alone, stepping away from the daily grind of parenting to just breathe and be yourself? If the idea sounds like a distant fantasy, this episode is for you. Last weekend, I took a life-changing solo trip across the country—yes, just me, no kids, no parenting responsibilities—and it was nothing short of magical. In today’s episode, I dive into why taking time for yourself isn't just a luxury—it’s essential. We'll explore 3 crucial benefits of having a solo break for yourself as a parent. It’s true the rejuvenation that comes from taking that break from parenting duties gives you space to recharge and reconnect. And most importantly - you’ll hear why reconnecting with yourself as an individual and a whole person can be life-altering. Because let’s face it: parenting is hard, and parenting highly sensitive children can feel challenging. But the enormity of parenting does not have to feel overbearing. This episode could be your sign that adventure is waiting, and it can be transformative! FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
Ever noticed your highly sensitive child getting jealous when it’s a sibling’s birthday? You’re not alone - it’s tough to see them struggle during what should be a fun family celebration.  In this podcast episode, we get personal about sibling jealousy, especially around birthdays. We’ll explore why these feelings aren't actually about selfishness, but rather deep, complex emotions, and I’ll share 3 practical strategies that have worked in my own family to help manage these big feelings.  Here’s the thing: Your highly sensitive child is actually craving connection in these jealous moments -- and once you understand that & have strategies that center connection, you'll be able to both support your child in these tough moments and also teach valuable skills for handling big emotions in the future.  FREE Breakthrough Call: https://www.raisedresilient.com/breakthrough Is Your Child Highly Sensitive? Take My FREE Quiz! https://www.raisedresilient.com/quiz Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisedresilient FREE Mindset Shifts: https://www.raisedresilient.com/mindset
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