Parenting Like a M*ther

Parenting Like a M*therhttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/parenting-like-a-m-ther--6509929enParentingCopyright Lindsay Wolf-Owczarekhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/2deb41851c28262319f05c18bb2e8648.jpgParenting Like a M*therhttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/parenting-like-a-m-ther--6509929Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:55:26 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekLindsay Wolf-Owczarekfeeds@spreaker.comParenting Like a M*ther is a refreshing and evidence-based podcast that explores the real challenges and joys of raising children in today's complex world. Each episode combines cutting-edge research with authentic stories from diverse caregivers,...false3200908c-c9f5-5317-8516-1b6fbd8df660episodicWhen Your Brain Won't Stop Spinning: Breaking Free from Overthinkinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-your-brain-won-t-stop-spinning-breaking-free-from-overthinking--72423260
If so, you're not alone.

In this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, I dive into the topic of parental overthinking—not from a "just stop worrying" perspective, but through the lens of psychology, neuroscience, and real-life parenting. We explore why some of the most loving parents are often the ones who overthink the most, and how our brains can mistake worry for preparation.

Drawing from both research and my own experiences parenting a child with Type 1 diabetes and a teenager navigating adolescence, I discuss the difference between healthy vigilance and anxiety-driven rumination. We unpack why overthinking feels productive, why it often isn't, and how it can quietly steal us away from the very moments we're trying so hard to protect.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why overthinking is often rooted in love, not weakness
How the brain's negativity bias keeps us scanning for threats
The difference between problem-solving and rumination
Why uncertainty is one of the hardest parts of parenting
Practical strategies to interrupt overthinking cycles
How naming your thoughts can calm your nervous system
The power of "worry windows" and present-moment awareness
What attachment research tells us children actually need from us

Most importantly, we'll talk about the truth many parents need to hear: your child does not need a parent who can predict every possible problem. They need a parent who is present, connected, and willing to repair when things don't go perfectly.

If you've been carrying the weight of overthinking lately, this episode is a gentle reminder that you can care deeply about your children without carrying every possible future on your shoulders.

Because parenting isn't about certainty—it's about showing up, again and again, in the moments that matter most.

🎙️ Listen in and learn how to step off the hamster wheel of worry and reconnect with the life that's happening right in front of you.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72423260Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:52:03 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekDo you ever find yourself replaying conversations, worrying about your child's future, or lying awake wondering if you've missed something important? If so, you're not alone. In this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, I dive into the topic of...
If so, you're not alone.

In this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, I dive into the topic of parental overthinking—not from a "just stop worrying" perspective, but through the lens of psychology, neuroscience, and real-life parenting. We explore why some of the most loving parents are often the ones who overthink the most, and how our brains can mistake worry for preparation.

Drawing from both research and my own experiences parenting a child with Type 1 diabetes and a teenager navigating adolescence, I discuss the difference between healthy vigilance and anxiety-driven rumination. We unpack why overthinking feels productive, why it often isn't, and how it can quietly steal us away from the very moments we're trying so hard to protect.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why overthinking is often rooted in love, not weakness
How the brain's negativity bias keeps us scanning for threats
The difference between problem-solving and rumination
Why uncertainty is one of the hardest parts of parenting
Practical strategies to interrupt overthinking cycles
How naming your thoughts can calm your nervous system
The power of "worry windows" and present-moment awareness
What attachment research tells us children actually need from us

Most importantly, we'll talk about the truth many parents need to hear: your child does not need a parent who can predict every possible problem. They need a parent who is present, connected, and willing to repair when things don't go perfectly.

If you've been carrying the weight of overthinking lately, this episode is a gentle reminder that you can care deeply about your children without carrying every possible future on your shoulders.

Because parenting isn't about certainty—it's about showing up, again and again, in the moments that matter most.

🎙️ Listen in and learn how to step off the hamster wheel of worry and reconnect with the life that's happening right in front of you.]]>1005falsefullIt Snuck Out Again: The Real Reason Behind Your Child's Accidentshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/it-snuck-out-again-the-real-reason-behind-your-child-s-accidents--71024327
Because what looks like defiance or laziness is almost always something happening in the body. And there is real, effective help available.

Calista walks us through what's actually going on physiologically when kids struggle with accidents, why constipation is so much more complicated than most of us realize, and how anxiety and stress can create a cycle in the body that's really hard to break on your own. She also explains exactly what appointments with a pelvic floor physiotherapist actually look like for kids — because I know a lot of parents are nervous about that — and spoiler: it's nothing to be afraid of.

I also share some of the ways I approach this in my own psychology practice, including why I always start with a parent session alone, and why shifting our language around accidents can make a huge difference for kids.

In this episode, we talk about:

What enuresis and encopresis actually mean — in plain language
When parents should start seeking support (hint: it's earlier than you might think)
Why accidents are almost never intentional or behavioural
The surprisingly powerful connection between constipation and bladder accidents
Why your child can be constipated even if they're going every day
How anxiety and stress tighten the pelvic floor and make everything worse
The dysfunctional evacuation cycle — and why we have to break every part of it
Why laxatives alone only get you about 25% of the way there
What pelvic floor physiotherapy with kids actually looks like (no scary exams)
How to shift your language so kids feel supported instead of blamed

What enuresis and encopresis actually mean — in plain language
When parents should start seeking support (hint: it's earlier than you might think)
Why accidents are almost never intentional or behavioural
The surprisingly powerful connection between constipation and bladder accidents
Why your child can be constipated even if they're going every day
How anxiety and stress tighten the pelvic floor and make everything worse
The dysfunctional evacuation cycle — and why we have to break every part of it
Why laxatives alone only get you about 25% of the way there
What pelvic floor physiotherapy with kids actually looks like (no scary exams)
How to shift your language so kids feel supported instead of blamed

One takeaway I hope parents remember

These kids are not choosing this. There is always something more complicated going on — in their bodies, their nervous systems, or both.

Our job isn't to fix their frustration or rush the process. It's to take the blame out of the equation, get curious about what's actually happening, and get them the right support.

Because when we stop asking "why won't they just go?" and start asking "what's getting in the way?" — that's when things start to change.

Connect with Calista: Pine Integrated Health Center — Edmonton (Calgary Trail) Holistic Fertility Group — St. Albert Instagram: @lifewithyourpelvicpt Virtual appointments available across Alberta ]]>2342falsefullRaising Resilient Kids Through Sporthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/raising-resilient-kids-through-sport--70606433
But resilience isn’t what many of us think it is. It’s not about pushing through at all costs or never falling apart. In my experience as both a child psychologist and a sports parent, resilience is actually the ability to struggle, take a break when needed, and then try again.

Right now our family is deep in gymnastics competition season and wrapping up soccer, so I share some personal stories from our own experiences this year. I talk about watching my daughter return to gymnastics after breaking her arm, and my son navigating a difficult soccer season where his team didn’t win a single game — but still grew tremendously.

I also talk about the ways I see parents (often unintentionally) getting in the way of resilience. Things like focusing too much on scores, blaming referees or judges, or trying to fix our kids’ disappointment can actually prevent them from developing the skills they need to handle hard things.

Instead, I share some of the ways we try to approach sports in our house — focusing on effort, helping our kids hold two feelings at once (proud and disappointed), and giving them space to process tough moments.

Because the goal of youth sports isn’t perfection. It’s helping our kids learn that they can handle hard things.

In this episode, I talk about:
• What resilience really is — and what it isn’t
• Why struggle and disappointment are an important part of growth
• How sports can create a safe environment for kids to experience failure
• Why I believe it’s important for kids to feel both proud and disappointed at the same time
• How we talk about winning and losing in our family
• The challenge of different commitment levels on youth sports teams
• The ways I sometimes see parents accidentally undermine resilience
• How we try to focus more on effort and growth instead of outcomes

One takeaway I hope parents remember
Resilience isn’t about raising kids who never struggle.

It’s about raising kids who learn that when things go badly, they can rest, recover, and try again.

Our job isn’t to protect our kids from the hard parts of sport — it’s to be there beside them while they figure out how to move through them.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70606433Fri, 13 Mar 2026 09:00:19 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekIn this episode, I talk about something I’m really passionate about — how sports can help our kids build real resilience. But resilience isn’t what many of us think it is. It’s not about pushing through at all costs or never falling apart. In my...
But resilience isn’t what many of us think it is. It’s not about pushing through at all costs or never falling apart. In my experience as both a child psychologist and a sports parent, resilience is actually the ability to struggle, take a break when needed, and then try again.

Right now our family is deep in gymnastics competition season and wrapping up soccer, so I share some personal stories from our own experiences this year. I talk about watching my daughter return to gymnastics after breaking her arm, and my son navigating a difficult soccer season where his team didn’t win a single game — but still grew tremendously.

I also talk about the ways I see parents (often unintentionally) getting in the way of resilience. Things like focusing too much on scores, blaming referees or judges, or trying to fix our kids’ disappointment can actually prevent them from developing the skills they need to handle hard things.

Instead, I share some of the ways we try to approach sports in our house — focusing on effort, helping our kids hold two feelings at once (proud and disappointed), and giving them space to process tough moments.

Because the goal of youth sports isn’t perfection. It’s helping our kids learn that they can handle hard things.

In this episode, I talk about:
• What resilience really is — and what it isn’t
• Why struggle and disappointment are an important part of growth
• How sports can create a safe environment for kids to experience failure
• Why I believe it’s important for kids to feel both proud and disappointed at the same time
• How we talk about winning and losing in our family
• The challenge of different commitment levels on youth sports teams
• The ways I sometimes see parents accidentally undermine resilience
• How we try to focus more on effort and growth instead of outcomes

One takeaway I hope parents remember
Resilience isn’t about raising kids who never struggle.

It’s about raising kids who learn that when things go badly, they can rest, recover, and try again.

Our job isn’t to protect our kids from the hard parts of sport — it’s to be there beside them while they figure out how to move through them.]]>1457falsefullFifteen Months In: Our Family’s Type 1 Diabetes Journeyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fifteen-months-in-our-family-s-type-1-diabetes-journey--70018537
I talk openly about:

The relentless mental math – carb counting, insulin dosing, and the constant calculations that run in the background of every meal, snack, outing, and school day.
The invisible vigilance – checking glucose numbers overnight, sleeping in shifts, responding to alarms, and managing exhaustion while continuing to parent, work, and function.
Mood and behavior changes – how high and low blood sugars directly impact emotional regulation, memory, impulse control, and attitude — and why these shifts are biological, not character flaws.
The emotional toll on the whole family – from grief and fear to the resilience of siblings and the delicate balance of avoiding parentification.
Social challenges – navigating stares, questions, teasing, and the growing self-awareness that comes with being a 9-year-old managing a visible medical condition.
Control, guilt, and advocacy – learning to trust others, setting boundaries around her care, and embracing the role of being “that parent” who checks the numbers — unapologetically.
Food and balance – avoiding rigid restriction, protecting against disordered eating, and ensuring she still gets to be a kid who enjoys birthday cake and Christmas treats.

I also share the gratitude — for supportive teachers, incredible coaches, educated grandparents, helpful technology like Loop, and a sibling who has stepped up in beautiful ways.

This episode isn’t about strategies. It’s about reality. It’s about the grief of a lifelong diagnosis, the resilience of a child, and the complicated, exhausting, love-filled work of parenting a child with type 1 diabetes.

If you’re parenting a child with T1D, you’re not alone. And if you’re not, I hope this gives you a window into what families are quietly carrying every single day.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70018537Fri, 13 Feb 2026 10:00:16 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekIn this deeply personal episode, I share what the last 15 months have been like since my youngest was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. From the initial hospitalization to daily life now, this journey has been filled with grief, growth, resilience, and...
I talk openly about:

The relentless mental math – carb counting, insulin dosing, and the constant calculations that run in the background of every meal, snack, outing, and school day.
The invisible vigilance – checking glucose numbers overnight, sleeping in shifts, responding to alarms, and managing exhaustion while continuing to parent, work, and function.
Mood and behavior changes – how high and low blood sugars directly impact emotional regulation, memory, impulse control, and attitude — and why these shifts are biological, not character flaws.
The emotional toll on the whole family – from grief and fear to the resilience of siblings and the delicate balance of avoiding parentification.
Social challenges – navigating stares, questions, teasing, and the growing self-awareness that comes with being a 9-year-old managing a visible medical condition.
Control, guilt, and advocacy – learning to trust others, setting boundaries around her care, and embracing the role of being “that parent” who checks the numbers — unapologetically.
Food and balance – avoiding rigid restriction, protecting against disordered eating, and ensuring she still gets to be a kid who enjoys birthday cake and Christmas treats.

I also share the gratitude — for supportive teachers, incredible coaches, educated grandparents, helpful technology like Loop, and a sibling who has stepped up in beautiful ways.

This episode isn’t about strategies. It’s about reality. It’s about the grief of a lifelong diagnosis, the resilience of a child, and the complicated, exhausting, love-filled work of parenting a child with type 1 diabetes.

If you’re parenting a child with T1D, you’re not alone. And if you’re not, I hope this gives you a window into what families are quietly carrying every single day.]]>1403falsefullWhen You’re Maxed Out: Honoring Your Capacity as a Parenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-you-re-maxed-out-honoring-your-capacity-as-a-parent--69814625
I dive into:

The trap of “shoulding” – how the voice in our head that tells us what we “should” be doing can be exhausting, judgmental, and unhelpful.
Capacity vs. character – low tolerance doesn’t mean you’re failing; it’s simply a reflection of your current capacity.
Practical strategies to honor your needs – including identifying non-negotiables vs. negotiables, outsourcing tasks, and building intentional moments of joy and rest.
Why self-care matters for your family – modeling awareness and honoring your own needs teaches your kids to do the same.

The trap of “shoulding” – how the voice in our head that tells us what we “should” be doing can be exhausting, judgmental, and unhelpful.
Capacity vs. character – low tolerance doesn’t mean you’re failing; it’s simply a reflection of your current capacity.
Practical strategies to honor your needs – including identifying non-negotiables vs. negotiables, outsourcing tasks, and building intentional moments of joy and rest.
Why self-care matters for your family – modeling awareness and honoring your own needs teaches your kids to do the same.

I also share concrete examples from my weekend reset, like a silent massage, family support in the office, and playful experiences like puppy yoga, showing how small, intentional actions can restore energy and patience.

The key takeaway: before judging yourself for low tolerance or feeling overwhelmed, pause and ask: What do I need right now? Giving yourself permission to rest and care for your own needs is not selfish—it’s essential for staying present and resilient in all areas of life.]]>1065falsefullIntrusive Thoughts in Children and Teenshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/intrusive-thoughts-in-children-and-teens--69637371intrusive thoughts in children and teens, drawing on her extensive experience treating OCD and anxiety. She explains that intrusive thoughts are sudden, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that can be upsetting or shocking, but importantly, do not reflect a child’s desires or character. These thoughts are common in kids with OCD and anxiety and often cause guilt, shame, and fear.

Lindsay differentiates intrusive thoughts from regular anxiety, noting that anxiety typically relates to real-life situations and future concerns, whereas intrusive thoughts are ego-dystonic—they conflict with a child’s values and identity. Using relatable analogies like scary movies, pop-up ads, and junk mail, she illustrates how intrusive thoughts are essentially "brain noise" that lose power when approached calmly.

The episode offers three practical strategies for parents:

Normalize without over-reassuring – acknowledge the thought is scary but avoid giving repeated reassurance, which reinforces it.
Separate the child from the thought – help children externalize the thought and recognize it as random brain noise.
Allow the thought to exist without panic – teach children to notice the thought, label it, and continue with life, reducing its power over time.

Lindsay also highlights when professional support is helpful, emphasizing the importance of therapists trained in OCD and exposure-response prevention (ERP).

The key takeaway: intrusive thoughts are normal, manageable, and do not define a child.

With calm, compassionate guidance, parents can help their children build resilience and respond to thoughts with understanding rather than fear, just like watching a scary movie multiple times until it’s no longer frightening. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69637371Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:00:19 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekIn this episode, Lindsay dives into the world of intrusive thoughts in children and teens, drawing on her extensive experience treating OCD and anxiety. She explains that intrusive thoughts are sudden, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that can be...intrusive thoughts in children and teens, drawing on her extensive experience treating OCD and anxiety. She explains that intrusive thoughts are sudden, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that can be upsetting or shocking, but importantly, do not reflect a child’s desires or character. These thoughts are common in kids with OCD and anxiety and often cause guilt, shame, and fear.

Lindsay differentiates intrusive thoughts from regular anxiety, noting that anxiety typically relates to real-life situations and future concerns, whereas intrusive thoughts are ego-dystonic—they conflict with a child’s values and identity. Using relatable analogies like scary movies, pop-up ads, and junk mail, she illustrates how intrusive thoughts are essentially "brain noise" that lose power when approached calmly.

The episode offers three practical strategies for parents:

Normalize without over-reassuring – acknowledge the thought is scary but avoid giving repeated reassurance, which reinforces it.
Separate the child from the thought – help children externalize the thought and recognize it as random brain noise.
Allow the thought to exist without panic – teach children to notice the thought, label it, and continue with life, reducing its power over time.

Validate the feeling, not the fear
Offer confidence, not certainty
Gently reduce repeated reassurance

If your child struggles with worry or OCD, this episode will help you understand the reassurance loop and give you tools to help them cope with uncertainty—without wearing yourself out.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69521800Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:00:19 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekHappy New Year! I’m back after a longer break and excited to dive into one of my favorite topics: anxiety and OCD in kids. In this episode, we’re talking about reassurance—why kids ask the same questions over and over (“Did I pack my lunch?” “Will...
In this episode, we’re talking about reassurance—why kids ask the same questions over and over (“Did I pack my lunch?” “Will everything be okay?”) and why telling them “you’ll be fine” actually doesn’t help. I break down what’s happening in the brain, why reassurance can make anxiety worse, and three practical shifts parents can make:

Validate the feeling, not the fear
Offer confidence, not certainty
Gently reduce repeated reassurance

If your child struggles with worry or OCD, this episode will help you understand the reassurance loop and give you tools to help them cope with uncertainty—without wearing yourself out.]]>1199falsefullNavigating the Alberta Teacher Strike as a Familyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/navigating-the-alberta-teacher-strike-as-a-family--68064204In this timely episode of Parenting Like a Mother, recorded on October 6, 2025, as Alberta’s 51,000 teachers began the province’s first strike since 2002, host Lindsay talks with Julie Diamond, founder of Diamond Teachers Group and a certified teacher with over 15 years of experience.
Together, they explore how parents can help children stay grounded, confident, and connected during this period of uncertainty — drawing lessons from Ontario’s previous strikes and the COVID-19 school shutdowns. This conversation focuses on what families can control: emotional support, maintaining structure, and creating meaningful learning moments at home.
You’ll learn why emotional validation must come before academics, how to support learning without pressure, and ways to reframe this disruption as a time to build confidence, independence, and curiosity.
________________________________________
In This Episode, We Discuss:
• The 2025 Alberta teachers’ strike and its impact on 730,000 students province-wide
• The emotional ripple effects for kids — from confusion to anxiety to empathy for their teachers
• Why checking in with your child’s feelings is the best first step
• How to keep routines predictable to provide a sense of safety
• Creative learning alternatives that make learning fun: Minecraft math, baking chemistry, nature walks, and board games
• How to close learning gaps and boost confidence through small wins
• Building executive functioning and a sense of accomplishment outside traditional schoolwork
• Setting realistic goals for the strike period — whether it lasts a week or a month
• Protecting social connection to prevent isolation and loneliness
• Talking with kids about advocacy and fairness in age-appropriate ways
• Balancing screen time with both educational and creative content
• Supporting your own wellbeing as a parent and focusing on what’s within your control
• When and how to reach out for extra support through tutors or community resources
________________________________________
Guest Expert
Julie Diamond is the founder of Diamond Teachers Group (formerly Teachers to Go), an online tutoring company established in 2011. She’s a certified teacher in BC and Ontario and has served on the Toronto District School Board’s Special Education Advisory Committee, representing students on the autism spectrum.
________________________________________
Resources:
🟢 Green Door Clinic
🟣 Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram
🔵 Diamond Teachers Group
________________________________________

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68064204Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:00:19 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekHow can parents support their child’s learning and emotional wellbeing during an unexpected school closure — and could this disruption actually be an opportunity for growth? In this timely episode of Parenting Like a Mother, recorded on October 6,...In this timely episode of Parenting Like a Mother, recorded on October 6, 2025, as Alberta’s 51,000 teachers began the province’s first strike since 2002, host Lindsay talks with Julie Diamond, founder of Diamond Teachers Group and a certified teacher with over 15 years of experience.
Together, they explore how parents can help children stay grounded, confident, and connected during this period of uncertainty — drawing lessons from Ontario’s previous strikes and the COVID-19 school shutdowns. This conversation focuses on what families can control: emotional support, maintaining structure, and creating meaningful learning moments at home.
You’ll learn why emotional validation must come before academics, how to support learning without pressure, and ways to reframe this disruption as a time to build confidence, independence, and curiosity.
________________________________________
In This Episode, We Discuss:
• The 2025 Alberta teachers’ strike and its impact on 730,000 students province-wide
• The emotional ripple effects for kids — from confusion to anxiety to empathy for their teachers
• Why checking in with your child’s feelings is the best first step
• How to keep routines predictable to provide a sense of safety
• Creative learning alternatives that make learning fun: Minecraft math, baking chemistry, nature walks, and board games
• How to close learning gaps and boost confidence through small wins
• Building executive functioning and a sense of accomplishment outside traditional schoolwork
• Setting realistic goals for the strike period — whether it lasts a week or a month
• Protecting social connection to prevent isolation and loneliness
• Talking with kids about advocacy and fairness in age-appropriate ways
• Balancing screen time with both educational and creative content
• Supporting your own wellbeing as a parent and focusing on what’s within your control
• When and how to reach out for extra support through tutors or community resources
________________________________________
Guest Expert
Julie Diamond is the founder of Diamond Teachers Group (formerly Teachers to Go), an online tutoring company established in 2011. She’s a certified teacher in BC and Ontario and has served on the Toronto District School Board’s Special Education Advisory Committee, representing students on the autism spectrum.
________________________________________
Resources:
🟢 Green Door Clinic
🟣 Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram
🔵 Diamond Teachers Group
________________________________________

]]>1495falsefullFinding Calm in the Chaoshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/finding-calm-in-the-chaos--67723256How do you find yourself when you're constantly switching between parent mode and professional mode — and why "balance" might be the wrong goal entirely? Join us for this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the unique cognitive load of being a professional and parent simultaneously. Drawing on research from UCLA's Center for Everyday Lives and Families and Harvard's Dr. Alison Daminger, we examine why parents switch contexts every 19 minutes during peak hours and how this constant role-switching creates an invisible mental load that's often undervalued. Through personal reflections on the "shrinking self" phenomenon and the modern working parent paradox, we discover why today's parents spend more time with their children than ever before yet feel more overwhelmed. This episode challenges the myth of perfect balance and introduces the concept of "good enough parenting" as a more sustainable approach. You'll learn practical micro-strategies for creating calm in your daily transitions and why giving yourself permission to be exactly where you are might be more valuable than any optimization system. Topics discussed in this episode include:

The constant role-switching between breakfast coordinator, professional strategist, and bedtime story reader
UCLA research showing parents switch contexts every 19 minutes during peak hours
The four invisible processes of mental load: anticipating, identifying, deciding, and monitoring
How becoming a parent literally rewires our brains to be more vigilant and anxious
The "shrinking self" phenomenon and disappearing personal moments
Why working parents today spend 4.5 more hours per week with children than parents in 1975
The "good parent trap" and pressure to optimize every aspect of children's experiences
Dr. Jody Carrington's insight that "balance is bullshit"
The difference between emotional availability and processing every emotion
Creating micro-moments of calm through transition breaths and sacred spaces
Reframing life as seasons rather than seeking perfect balance
The physiological sigh technique from Dr. Huberman for nervous system regulation
Energy audits and sustainable presence over perfectionism
Why "good enough parenting" (responsive, consistent, resilient modeling) is actually ideal

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67723256Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:00:18 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekHow do you find yourself when you're constantly switching between parent mode and professional mode — and why "balance" might be the wrong goal entirely? Join us for this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the unique cognitive load...How do you find yourself when you're constantly switching between parent mode and professional mode — and why "balance" might be the wrong goal entirely? Join us for this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the unique cognitive load of being a professional and parent simultaneously. Drawing on research from UCLA's Center for Everyday Lives and Families and Harvard's Dr. Alison Daminger, we examine why parents switch contexts every 19 minutes during peak hours and how this constant role-switching creates an invisible mental load that's often undervalued. Through personal reflections on the "shrinking self" phenomenon and the modern working parent paradox, we discover why today's parents spend more time with their children than ever before yet feel more overwhelmed. This episode challenges the myth of perfect balance and introduces the concept of "good enough parenting" as a more sustainable approach. You'll learn practical micro-strategies for creating calm in your daily transitions and why giving yourself permission to be exactly where you are might be more valuable than any optimization system. Topics discussed in this episode include:

The constant role-switching between breakfast coordinator, professional strategist, and bedtime story reader
UCLA research showing parents switch contexts every 19 minutes during peak hours
The four invisible processes of mental load: anticipating, identifying, deciding, and monitoring
How becoming a parent literally rewires our brains to be more vigilant and anxious
The "shrinking self" phenomenon and disappearing personal moments
Why working parents today spend 4.5 more hours per week with children than parents in 1975
The "good parent trap" and pressure to optimize every aspect of children's experiences
Dr. Jody Carrington's insight that "balance is bullshit"
The difference between emotional availability and processing every emotion
Creating micro-moments of calm through transition breaths and sacred spaces
Reframing life as seasons rather than seeking perfect balance
The physiological sigh technique from Dr. Huberman for nervous system regulation
Energy audits and sustainable presence over perfectionism
Why "good enough parenting" (responsive, consistent, resilient modeling) is actually ideal

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother ]]>1152falsefullNavigating the Back-to-School Transition: Understanding Your Child's Brain During September Stresshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/navigating-the-back-to-school-transition-understanding-your-child-s-brain-during-september-stress--67469203
Topics discussed in this episode include:

Why children's brains prioritize emotional processing over logical thinking during transitions
How the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex (until age 25) affects children's ability to manage change
Why your child's nervous system registers school as a potential threat—and why this is evolutionary protection
Understanding "restraint collapse" and why children fall apart at home after being good at school
Age-specific adjustment timelines: 3-4 weeks for preschoolers, 2-3 weeks for elementary, 2-6 weeks for teens
Why sleep regulation should begin two weeks before school starts for optimal adjustment
How controlled exposure to school environments can reduce anxiety by familiarizing the brain
The importance of comfort items, which can reduce anxiety by up to 60%
Morning routine strategies and why protein-rich breakfasts sustain attention for 3-4 hours
Better conversation starters than "How was school?" to connect with overstimulated children
Special considerations for children with anxiety, ADHD, and autism spectrum needs
Warning signs that indicate professional support may be needed

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67469203Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:00:17 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekJoin us as we dive into the fascinating neuroscience behind why every child—regardless of temperament or previous experience—needs extra time and support to adjust to returning to school. We explore why even excited children experience elevated...
Topics discussed in this episode include:

Why children's brains prioritize emotional processing over logical thinking during transitions
How the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex (until age 25) affects children's ability to manage change
Why your child's nervous system registers school as a potential threat—and why this is evolutionary protection
Understanding "restraint collapse" and why children fall apart at home after being good at school
Age-specific adjustment timelines: 3-4 weeks for preschoolers, 2-3 weeks for elementary, 2-6 weeks for teens
Why sleep regulation should begin two weeks before school starts for optimal adjustment
How controlled exposure to school environments can reduce anxiety by familiarizing the brain
The importance of comfort items, which can reduce anxiety by up to 60%
Morning routine strategies and why protein-rich breakfasts sustain attention for 3-4 hours
Better conversation starters than "How was school?" to connect with overstimulated children
Special considerations for children with anxiety, ADHD, and autism spectrum needs
Warning signs that indicate professional support may be needed

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>1366falsefullRisky Playhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/risky-play--66602706
Join us for this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the crucial psychological benefits of age-appropriate risk-taking and how parents can manage their own anxiety while fostering resilience in their children. Drawing on groundbreaking research from Dr. Ellen Sandseter on "risky play" and Dr. Peter Gray's work on overprotection, we uncover why our protective instincts might actually be making our children less equipped to handle life's challenges.

Through the host's experience as both a psychologist and mother — including her daughter's recent gymnastics injury — we examine how setbacks can build both physical and psychological resilience. This episode reveals the "overprotection paradox" and how well-meaning parents can inadvertently increase anxiety and decrease problem-solving capabilities in their children. You'll learn to distinguish between manageable challenges that promote growth and genuine hazards that require intervention, while discovering practical strategies to support your child's natural drive toward independence and competence.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

The six categories of risky play and their developmental benefits
How overprotection paradoxically increases anxiety and decreases resilience
The crucial difference between challenges (manageable risks) and hazards (genuine dangers)
Neuroscience research showing how risk-taking builds neural pathways for problem-solving
Personal insights from a gymnastics injury and recovery process
Risk compensation theory and natural behavior adjustment in children
Age-appropriate risk guidelines from toddlers through adolescence
How to manage parental anxiety while supporting child exploration
Developing risk assessment skills through guided conversations
Creating graduated challenge environments at home and in activities
Responding to failures and injuries as learning opportunities rather than disasters
Why junior high is the perfect time for manageable failures
Practical strategies for building confidence and metacognitive skills

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66602706Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:00:16 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWhy taking risks might be the safest thing your child can do — and how to support them through it. Join us for this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the crucial psychological benefits of age-appropriate risk-taking and how parents...
Join us for this episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the crucial psychological benefits of age-appropriate risk-taking and how parents can manage their own anxiety while fostering resilience in their children. Drawing on groundbreaking research from Dr. Ellen Sandseter on "risky play" and Dr. Peter Gray's work on overprotection, we uncover why our protective instincts might actually be making our children less equipped to handle life's challenges.

Through the host's experience as both a psychologist and mother — including her daughter's recent gymnastics injury — we examine how setbacks can build both physical and psychological resilience. This episode reveals the "overprotection paradox" and how well-meaning parents can inadvertently increase anxiety and decrease problem-solving capabilities in their children. You'll learn to distinguish between manageable challenges that promote growth and genuine hazards that require intervention, while discovering practical strategies to support your child's natural drive toward independence and competence.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

The six categories of risky play and their developmental benefits
How overprotection paradoxically increases anxiety and decreases resilience
The crucial difference between challenges (manageable risks) and hazards (genuine dangers)
Neuroscience research showing how risk-taking builds neural pathways for problem-solving
Personal insights from a gymnastics injury and recovery process
Risk compensation theory and natural behavior adjustment in children
Age-appropriate risk guidelines from toddlers through adolescence
How to manage parental anxiety while supporting child exploration
Developing risk assessment skills through guided conversations
Creating graduated challenge environments at home and in activities
Responding to failures and injuries as learning opportunities rather than disasters
Why junior high is the perfect time for manageable failures
Practical strategies for building confidence and metacognitive skills

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>1533falsefullUnderstanding Social Aggression in Girls: Tools for Parentshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/understanding-social-aggression-in-girls-tools-for-parents--66330854Why do girls sometimes use friendship as a weapon — and how can parents help?

Join us for episode 6 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we dive into the complex world of social aggression in girls. Drawing on research from the University of Minnesota and real-world clinical experience, we explore how exclusion, gossip, and conditional friendships leave deep emotional scars — even though they’re harder to see than physical bullying. Through the host’s dual lens as a psychologist and parent, we unpack how social aggression unfolds developmentally, why it peaks in tween and teen years, and how cultural norms around “niceness” and popularity shape girls’ behavior.

This episode introduces practical, age-appropriate strategies to help your child recognize healthy friendships, respond to relational aggression, and build lasting empathy. You'll learn the "screenshot pause" method for navigating online drama, how to spot early warning signs in both victims and aggressors, and when it’s time to step in. Whether your daughter is feeling left out or caught in the middle of friendship drama, this episode offers validation, guidance, and hope for a more connected, compassionate future.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

What social aggression is — and how it differs from physical bullying
Why exclusion, silent treatment, and cyberbullying are so emotionally damaging
How these behaviors emerge around age 6–7 and evolve through adolescence
The impact of post-COVID changes on girls’ social behavior
Why girls aren’t inherently “mean,” and how social norms contribute
Warning signs that your child is being targeted — or engaging in social aggression
How to support your child without overreacting or minimizing their experience
The protective power of maternal support and empathy-building
Tools for developing assertiveness, healthy boundaries, and digital literacy
When to contact schools or seek professional help
How parents remain a powerful influence, even in the teen years

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66330854Fri, 30 May 2025 09:00:14 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWhy do girls sometimes use friendship as a weapon — and how can parents help? Join us for episode 6 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we dive into the complex world of social aggression in girls. Drawing on research from the University of Minnesota...Why do girls sometimes use friendship as a weapon — and how can parents help?

Join us for episode 6 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we dive into the complex world of social aggression in girls. Drawing on research from the University of Minnesota and real-world clinical experience, we explore how exclusion, gossip, and conditional friendships leave deep emotional scars — even though they’re harder to see than physical bullying. Through the host’s dual lens as a psychologist and parent, we unpack how social aggression unfolds developmentally, why it peaks in tween and teen years, and how cultural norms around “niceness” and popularity shape girls’ behavior.

This episode introduces practical, age-appropriate strategies to help your child recognize healthy friendships, respond to relational aggression, and build lasting empathy. You'll learn the "screenshot pause" method for navigating online drama, how to spot early warning signs in both victims and aggressors, and when it’s time to step in. Whether your daughter is feeling left out or caught in the middle of friendship drama, this episode offers validation, guidance, and hope for a more connected, compassionate future.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

What social aggression is — and how it differs from physical bullying
Why exclusion, silent treatment, and cyberbullying are so emotionally damaging
How these behaviors emerge around age 6–7 and evolve through adolescence
The impact of post-COVID changes on girls’ social behavior
Why girls aren’t inherently “mean,” and how social norms contribute
Warning signs that your child is being targeted — or engaging in social aggression
How to support your child without overreacting or minimizing their experience
The protective power of maternal support and empathy-building
Tools for developing assertiveness, healthy boundaries, and digital literacy
When to contact schools or seek professional help
How parents remain a powerful influence, even in the teen years

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca
Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>1799falsefullIdentity Shifts: When Professionals Become Parentshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/identity-shifts-when-professionals-become-parents--66106548
Drawing from their combined experiences as both psychologists and mothers, they unpack the challenges of balancing dual identities and the unexpected mental load that parenthood brings. Learn about the "invisible mental load" that often falls disproportionately to mothers, common emotional struggles like increased anxiety and the loss of self, and practical strategies for navigating these profound transitions.

Through honest conversation, they challenge the "you can have it all" messaging many grew up with and offer realistic approaches to recalibrating expectations in both professional and parenting roles. Discover how taking turns "pausing" careers with partners, conducting regular self-check-ins, and prioritizing self-care can help maintain your sense of self during this significant life transition.

Whether you're planning for parenthood, currently in the trenches of early parenting, or reflecting on your own identity journey, this episode offers compassionate guidance for professionals navigating the complex identity shift that comes with parenthood.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

How the "invisible mental load" creates unexpected stress for new parents
Why clinical knowledge can both help and hinder the parenting journey
How to recalibrate professional expectations during different parenting stages
Why viewing professional and parenting identities as coexisting rather than competing matters
How to implement regular check-ins with yourself and your partner
Why "good enough" parenting and professional work should be embraced
How to maintain your sense of self while juggling multiple identities
Why self-care needs to be scheduled and prioritized from the beginning
How to collaborate with partners on career advancement timing
Why balancing dual identities is a long-term journey, not a temporary challenge

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66106548Fri, 16 May 2025 09:00:13 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWhat happens to our sense of self when we become parents while juggling professional careers? Join us for Episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where host Lindsay Wolf-Owczarek and psychologist Dr. Joti Brar-Josan explore the complex identity shifts...
Drawing from their combined experiences as both psychologists and mothers, they unpack the challenges of balancing dual identities and the unexpected mental load that parenthood brings. Learn about the "invisible mental load" that often falls disproportionately to mothers, common emotional struggles like increased anxiety and the loss of self, and practical strategies for navigating these profound transitions.

Through honest conversation, they challenge the "you can have it all" messaging many grew up with and offer realistic approaches to recalibrating expectations in both professional and parenting roles. Discover how taking turns "pausing" careers with partners, conducting regular self-check-ins, and prioritizing self-care can help maintain your sense of self during this significant life transition.

Whether you're planning for parenthood, currently in the trenches of early parenting, or reflecting on your own identity journey, this episode offers compassionate guidance for professionals navigating the complex identity shift that comes with parenthood.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

How the "invisible mental load" creates unexpected stress for new parents
Why clinical knowledge can both help and hinder the parenting journey
How to recalibrate professional expectations during different parenting stages
Why viewing professional and parenting identities as coexisting rather than competing matters
How to implement regular check-ins with yourself and your partner
Why "good enough" parenting and professional work should be embraced
How to maintain your sense of self while juggling multiple identities
Why self-care needs to be scheduled and prioritized from the beginning
How to collaborate with partners on career advancement timing
Why balancing dual identities is a long-term journey, not a temporary challenge

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>2532falsefullBehind the Green Door: My Journey to being a Child Psychologist and the Wild Year of Motherhoodhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/behind-the-green-door-my-journey-to-being-a-child-psychologist-and-the-wild-year-of-motherhood--65822824
Topics discussed in this episode include:

Lindsay's unexpected path from aspiring professional dancer to child psychologist
How working with victims through the RCMP shaped her professional journey
The moment Lindsay discovered her passion for working with children
Why she named her practice "Edmonton Green Door Clinic" and what it symbolizes
The challenges and rewards of building a collaborative psychology practice
Her daughter's sudden Type 1 diabetes diagnosis and the steep learning curve that followed
Navigating the additional challenge of her daughter's broken arm requiring surgery
Strategies Lindsay uses to stay grounded through personal and professional challenges
The importance of modeling repair after mistakes in parent-child relationships
Why letting go of perfectionism in parenting has been crucial to Lindsay's wellbeing
How consistent self-care practices help maintain resilience during difficult times

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65822824Fri, 02 May 2025 09:00:19 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekJoin us for this special personal episode of Parenting Like a Mother, where Lindsay Wolf-Owczarek takes a break from her usual parenting advice to share her own journey—from aspiring professional dancer to child psychologist and founder of Edmonton...
Topics discussed in this episode include:

Lindsay's unexpected path from aspiring professional dancer to child psychologist
How working with victims through the RCMP shaped her professional journey
The moment Lindsay discovered her passion for working with children
Why she named her practice "Edmonton Green Door Clinic" and what it symbolizes
The challenges and rewards of building a collaborative psychology practice
Her daughter's sudden Type 1 diabetes diagnosis and the steep learning curve that followed
Navigating the additional challenge of her daughter's broken arm requiring surgery
Strategies Lindsay uses to stay grounded through personal and professional challenges
The importance of modeling repair after mistakes in parent-child relationships
Why letting go of perfectionism in parenting has been crucial to Lindsay's wellbeing
How consistent self-care practices help maintain resilience during difficult times

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>1704falsefullSetting Healthy Digital Boundarieshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/setting-healthy-digital-boundaries--65611313
Join us for episode 4 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the complex landscape of children's screen time. Drawing from research by the Journal of American Medical Association and Georgetown University, we unpack how excessive screen time affects child development and the surprising way parental involvement can mitigate negative effects. Through personal experiences as both a professional and parent, we present the "Three Bs" approach — creating clear Boundaries, Building Balance between digital and offline activities, and Being present during your child's screen time.

Learn age-appropriate guidelines for each developmental stage, from toddlers to teens, and discover practical strategies like tech-free zones, balanced activity tokens, and co-viewing techniques. We also discuss warning signs of problematic screen use and special considerations for neurodivergent children. Our goal isn't eliminating technology but helping children develop healthy digital habits that prepare them for a future where technology plays a central role.

Whether you're struggling with gaming addiction or simply wondering about appropriate limits, this episode offers compassionate guidance for raising children in the digital age!

Topics discussed in this episode include:

Why quality and context of screen time matters as much as quantity
How co-viewing and discussing digital content with children reduces negative effects
Why creating tech-free zones can improve sleep and family connection
How to implement a balanced approach between screen time and other activities
Why parental participation in children's digital world creates teachable moments
How to recognize signs that screen time has become problematic
Why understanding the underlying reasons for excessive screen use matters
How to adapt screen time strategies for neurodivergent children
Why teaching digital citizenship prepares children for their future
How consistency in boundaries helps children develop self-regulation
Why demonizing technology isn't helpful, but understanding its proper place is crucial

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65611313Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:00:12 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWhat strategies can parents use to help children develop a healthy relationship with technology in today's digital world? Join us for episode 4 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the complex landscape of children's screen time. Drawing from...
Join us for episode 4 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we explore the complex landscape of children's screen time. Drawing from research by the Journal of American Medical Association and Georgetown University, we unpack how excessive screen time affects child development and the surprising way parental involvement can mitigate negative effects. Through personal experiences as both a professional and parent, we present the "Three Bs" approach — creating clear Boundaries, Building Balance between digital and offline activities, and Being present during your child's screen time.

Learn age-appropriate guidelines for each developmental stage, from toddlers to teens, and discover practical strategies like tech-free zones, balanced activity tokens, and co-viewing techniques. We also discuss warning signs of problematic screen use and special considerations for neurodivergent children. Our goal isn't eliminating technology but helping children develop healthy digital habits that prepare them for a future where technology plays a central role.

Whether you're struggling with gaming addiction or simply wondering about appropriate limits, this episode offers compassionate guidance for raising children in the digital age!

Topics discussed in this episode include:

Why quality and context of screen time matters as much as quantity
How co-viewing and discussing digital content with children reduces negative effects
Why creating tech-free zones can improve sleep and family connection
How to implement a balanced approach between screen time and other activities
Why parental participation in children's digital world creates teachable moments
How to recognize signs that screen time has become problematic
Why understanding the underlying reasons for excessive screen use matters
How to adapt screen time strategies for neurodivergent children
Why teaching digital citizenship prepares children for their future
How consistency in boundaries helps children develop self-regulation
Why demonizing technology isn't helpful, but understanding its proper place is crucial

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother]]>1253falsefullA Guide to Educational Accommodations and Parental Collaboration with Carmen Forthhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-guide-to-educational-accommodations-and-parental-collaboration-with-carmen-forth--65341141
Carmen Forth, a passionate educator dedicated to empowering children with complex learning needs, is with us for this episode. Her journey, inspired by her love for science and personal family experiences, has equipped her with unique insights into the importance of celebrating each child's individuality. We explore how accommodations are essential tools that enhance learning, not hinder it, and the vital role of self-advocacy in fostering independence. Carmen shares strategies for building collaborative partnerships between parents and teachers, ensuring that each child's unique abilities are nurtured and supported.

Whether you're seeking guidance on mental health resources or ways to navigate the accommodation process, this episode offers a compassionate roadmap for elevating your child's educational journey!

Topics discussed in this episode include:
- Why educational accommodations are crucial for empowering students and nurturing their potential.
- Addressing misconceptions about learning accommodations.
- Why collaboration between parents and teachers is essential for supporting unique learners.
- How everyone uses accommodations—we just usually don’t realize it.
- Why teaching children to advocate for themselves can lead to greater independence.
- How teachers can benefit from parent-school partnerships for student support.
- Why positive advocacy strategies are crucial for parents navigating educational challenges.
- How effective communication can set children up for success in school environments.
- Why understanding a child's learning differences can build confidence rather than shame.
- How honest conversations with children about their learning needs can empower them.
- Why seeking diagnosis can offer valuable strategies for supporting children's learning journeys.

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_amother
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65341141Fri, 04 Apr 2025 09:00:12 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWhat role do community and collaboration play in navigating the challenges faced by children with unique learning needs? Carmen Forth, a passionate educator dedicated to empowering children with complex learning needs, is with us for this episode....
Carmen Forth, a passionate educator dedicated to empowering children with complex learning needs, is with us for this episode. Her journey, inspired by her love for science and personal family experiences, has equipped her with unique insights into the importance of celebrating each child's individuality. We explore how accommodations are essential tools that enhance learning, not hinder it, and the vital role of self-advocacy in fostering independence. Carmen shares strategies for building collaborative partnerships between parents and teachers, ensuring that each child's unique abilities are nurtured and supported.

Whether you're seeking guidance on mental health resources or ways to navigate the accommodation process, this episode offers a compassionate roadmap for elevating your child's educational journey!

Topics discussed in this episode include:
- Why educational accommodations are crucial for empowering students and nurturing their potential.
- Addressing misconceptions about learning accommodations.
- Why collaboration between parents and teachers is essential for supporting unique learners.
- How everyone uses accommodations—we just usually don’t realize it.
- Why teaching children to advocate for themselves can lead to greater independence.
- How teachers can benefit from parent-school partnerships for student support.
- Why positive advocacy strategies are crucial for parents navigating educational challenges.
- How effective communication can set children up for success in school environments.
- Why understanding a child's learning differences can build confidence rather than shame.
- How honest conversations with children about their learning needs can empower them.
- Why seeking diagnosis can offer valuable strategies for supporting children's learning journeys.

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_amother
]]>1149falsefullHarnessing Brain Power to Ease Your Children’s Anxietyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/harnessing-brain-power-to-ease-your-children-s-anxiety--64999907
Today we’re examining childhood anxiety through the lens of brain science. Join me as we explore the role of the amygdala, our brain's vigilant security guard, and how it sometimes overreacts and triggers anxiety in children. From bedtime fears to school stress, I share stories and scientific insights to unravel these complex responses, and uncover the importance of creating positive experiences to rewire anxious brains. I’ll also provide some strategies for parents and caregivers to support their children. Let’s navigate the intricacies of childhood anxiety together!

Topics discussed in this episode include:
- How childhood anxiety is rooted in brain science, focusing on the amygdala's role.
- How understanding childhood anxiety's evolutionary backdrop helps contextualize modern stress responses.
- Why the amygdala acts as a security guard, triggering anxiety over perceived threats.
- Why understanding "if it fires together, it wires together" is key in addressing anxiety.
- How anxiety presents differently across developmental stages from toddlers to teenagers.
- How fostering positive experiences helps counteract the impact of anxiety on children.
- Strategies that can support parents in managing their children's anxiety.
- The “name it to tame it” strategy, which settles the amygdala.
- Phrases that should be avoided, as they are counterproductive.
- “Breath to believe,” and what to remember when teaching this to your child.
- How you can use gradual exposure to relieve your children’s anxiety.
- Why sharing personal stories can help build a supportive community for managing anxiety.

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_amother
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64999907Fri, 21 Mar 2025 09:00:13 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWhat practical brain-based techniques can parents use to ease their children's worries and build resilience? Today we’re examining childhood anxiety through the lens of brain science. Join me as we explore the role of the amygdala, our brain's...
Today we’re examining childhood anxiety through the lens of brain science. Join me as we explore the role of the amygdala, our brain's vigilant security guard, and how it sometimes overreacts and triggers anxiety in children. From bedtime fears to school stress, I share stories and scientific insights to unravel these complex responses, and uncover the importance of creating positive experiences to rewire anxious brains. I’ll also provide some strategies for parents and caregivers to support their children. Let’s navigate the intricacies of childhood anxiety together!

Topics discussed in this episode include:
- How childhood anxiety is rooted in brain science, focusing on the amygdala's role.
- How understanding childhood anxiety's evolutionary backdrop helps contextualize modern stress responses.
- Why the amygdala acts as a security guard, triggering anxiety over perceived threats.
- Why understanding "if it fires together, it wires together" is key in addressing anxiety.
- How anxiety presents differently across developmental stages from toddlers to teenagers.
- How fostering positive experiences helps counteract the impact of anxiety on children.
- Strategies that can support parents in managing their children's anxiety.
- The “name it to tame it” strategy, which settles the amygdala.
- Phrases that should be avoided, as they are counterproductive.
- “Breath to believe,” and what to remember when teaching this to your child.
- How you can use gradual exposure to relieve your children’s anxiety.
- Why sharing personal stories can help build a supportive community for managing anxiety.

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_amother
]]>817falsefullLet’s Begin Our New Parenting Journey Togetherhttps://www.greendooryeg.ca/podcastepisodes
Welcome to the first episode! Today, I start our journey into the overwhelming world of modern parenting. I'm Lindsay Wolf-Owczarek, a mom, wife, and registered psychologist, here to unravel the endless streams of parenting advice and the anxiety it can create. We explore the concept of "good enough” parenting in this episode, emphasizing that perfection isn't necessary—small failures can actually foster resilience in our kids. I also tackle the discipline debate, advocating for a balanced approach that blends clear boundaries with emotional warmth, aligning with the authoritative parenting style. Together, let's support each other through the ups and downs of parenting with compassion and science-backed insights. I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with you!

Topics discussed in this episode include:

How modern parenting feels overwhelming due to information overload and decision fatigue.
Research that shows parental anxiety is at an all-time high.
Why curated social media portrayals increase parental anxiety and guilt.
How embracing "good enough” parenting helps build resilience in children.
Why small parenting failures are beneficial for children's coping skills.
How authoritative parenting blends clear boundaries with emotional warmth.
Why consistent, loving parenting is more valuable than striving for perfection.
How to create decision-making frameworks based on family values and principles.
Why building a strong support network reduces parental stress.
How sharing parenting challenges and victories fosters community and learning.
How this podcast aims to support parents with science-backed insights and community.

Find more resources and work with us at https://www.greendooryeg.ca/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64746240Fri, 07 Mar 2025 11:29:10 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekAre you ready to join a supportive community that celebrates the diverse ways families learn and love? Welcome to the first episode! Today, I start our journey into the overwhelming world of modern parenting. I'm Lindsay Wolf-Owczarek, a mom, wife,...
Welcome to the first episode! Today, I start our journey into the overwhelming world of modern parenting. I'm Lindsay Wolf-Owczarek, a mom, wife, and registered psychologist, here to unravel the endless streams of parenting advice and the anxiety it can create. We explore the concept of "good enough” parenting in this episode, emphasizing that perfection isn't necessary—small failures can actually foster resilience in our kids. I also tackle the discipline debate, advocating for a balanced approach that blends clear boundaries with emotional warmth, aligning with the authoritative parenting style. Together, let's support each other through the ups and downs of parenting with compassion and science-backed insights. I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with you!

Topics discussed in this episode include:

How modern parenting feels overwhelming due to information overload and decision fatigue.
Research that shows parental anxiety is at an all-time high.
Why curated social media portrayals increase parental anxiety and guilt.
How embracing "good enough” parenting helps build resilience in children.
Why small parenting failures are beneficial for children's coping skills.
How authoritative parenting blends clear boundaries with emotional warmth.
Why consistent, loving parenting is more valuable than striving for perfection.
How to create decision-making frameworks based on family values and principles.
Why building a strong support network reduces parental stress.
How sharing parenting challenges and victories fosters community and learning.
How this podcast aims to support parents with science-backed insights and community.

Find more resources and work with us at https://www.greendooryeg.ca/]]>545falsefullTrailerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trailer--64414239greendooryeg.ca. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64414239Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:18:07 +0000Lindsay Wolf-OwczarekWelcome to Parenting Like a M*ther from https://greendooryeg.ca/. greendooryeg.ca. ]]>56falsetrailer