Why Understanding Your Child's Brain is Crucial for Parenting

EP:114 On this episode of Thrive Like a Parent Podcast, I went to this incredible Pink concert the other night, and it just made me reflect on how much I used to neglect myself back in my previous relationship. I was always putting my partner first, trying so hard to make everything "work" that I completely lost touch with the things that lit me up inside.   And I see that happening with so many parents these days - we get so caught up in the grind, in keeping up appearances, that we forget to take care of ourselves. And even worse, I see parents just zoning their kids out with screens, even at special events like concerts. Those shared experiences and memories are so precious, and I worry we're robbing our kids of that. My dad took me to so many amazing shows growing up, and I'll cherish those times forever. I just wish I had been brave enough to chase my own dream of being a dancer. So this episode is a bit of a rant, but it's coming from a place of deep passion. I want all of you to go do the thing that sets your soul on fire! And make sure you're really present and engaged with your kids, not just using screens as a crutch. I know it's not easy, but it's so worth it. We can't pour from an empty cup, you know? So let's talk about why self-care, following your passions, and being present with your kids are so crucial. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this one.    #newepisode #thrivelikeaparentpodcast #ThriveLikeAParent #parenting #podcast

EP:113 On this week’s episode of “Thrive Like a Parent,” I dive into how yoga and movement help spark my creativity and provide clarity in my life. For me, working out isn’t just about fitness, it’s a way to connect with myself. I share some personal experiences, including the challenges I’ve faced as a mom of two preemies, running businesses, and going through a tough beginning of divorce before losing Jonathan. These experiences have deepened my empathy for others. I also reflect on the importance of asking for help. You are not alone. Allow those who love to be there for you and support you.. This episode is a reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles, and it’s okay to lean on others for support. xoxo Dr. B #thrivelikeaparentpodcast #thrivelikeaparent #podcast #newepisode #dealingwithgrief #healingjourney #trauma #traumahealing #traumasurvivor #widow #widowlife #griefawareness #sensoryregulation #sensorylearning #emotionalregulation #nervoussystemregulation #momlife #selfregulation #burnout

EP:112 On this week’s episode of Thrive Like a Parent, I’m thrilled to be joined by one of our wonderful coaches, Dr. Maria Gonzalez. We’ll be exploring a topic that so many of you have been asking about—having a partner who travels.   It can be challenging to stay grounded and regulated when your partner is frequently away, and it’s easy for resentment to build up, making communication and communication tough. We’ll talk about the courage it takes to take ownership of your feelings, to recognize what your body and nervous system need, and to clearly communicate those needs to your partner.   No matter what your dynamic is, all relationships have their ups and downs, and it’s completely okay to feel everything that comes up—without guilt. Remember, you’re not alone. XOXO, Dr. B and Dr. Maria   #podcast #thrivelikeaparent #thrivelikeaparentpodcast #relationship #partner #newepisode

EP:111 My children should not grow up without their father. I should not have to raise my children without their father. No family should lose a loved one due to mental health. But here I am, and so many others. This world is spinning out of control, and our brains can't keep up. There's so much pressure to do more, be more, and it's crushing so many. I support parents day in and day out. If you're struggling, please don't wait. If you're lonely, please don't wait. Never hesitate to reach out if you are finding yourself in this situation, there are hotlines that you can call. You can go to the hospital and as a friend and as a supporter, and anyone who is supporting someone who is in this state, it is okay to get yourself support. It is okay to take care of yourself, and it is also okay to do what you can to support them, but also release that outcome, which is, again, a really hard one to hear. I hope you can share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

EP:110 On this episode of Thrive Like a Parent Podcast, I discuss what it's like to come out of a prolonged "fight or flight" mode, sharing my personal experiences of exhaustion and the emotional lows that follow. It feels like coming down from a marathon—completely draining but necessary for healing.It is so important to rest and take care of yourself , even when it feels unproductive. This is a reminder that healing takes time, and it's crucial to be patient and gentle and kind to yourself during this recalibration of the nervous system.

EP:109 Is it possible for movement to release emotions? YES. YES. YES. It's a vital and one of the most crucial pieces to mental health, sensory regulation, emotional regulation and your nervous system regulation. The ability to utilize movement for regulation is like a triangle.   I believe that we all need movement. We all need someone to talk to, which is another edge of the triangle.   Then regulation is the third. And having that triangle of all those different pieces truly builds you into a individual who can have the ability to regulate their nervous system. Are you always going to be regulated? No, but the ability to learn how to throttle between the gas and the brake, and being able to understand what is required of you or necessary. That is, that's the secret sauce. That's the juice. That is the magic pill.

What does it mean to truly regulate internally? ✅ It means you understand your brain and body. ✅ You understand what your body physically needs, what it dislikes, what it likes. ✅ You know what self care will really support you. ✅ You understand if you’re an introvert versus an extrovert. I want you to check in with yourself to see if you are externally emotionally regulating yourself or are you internally emotionally regulating yourself… AND what are the steps you can take to shift that? Deep dive into WHY.. 👉 Why do I feel this way? 👉 What do I need? 👉 What do I want relationships in my life to look like? 👉 Is this something that I can give to myself? 👉 Does this feel scary? 👉 Am I capable of giving this to myself? Go down that rabbit hole and explore all those different things. Because what’s waiting for you on the other side is freedom. Freedom from resentment and anger. Freedom from holding permission in everyone else’s hands for your happiness and your mental health. Freedom from needing to feel worthy from others, and most importantly, regulating through someone else and other things externally. Internal vs external regulation unpacked on this week’s episode of Thrive Like a Parent Podcast. XOXO, Dr. B #thrive #thrivelikeaparent #thrivelikeaparentpodcast #newepisode #internalregulation #emotionalhealth #emotionalregulation #sensoryoverload #overstimulatedmind #copingskills #podcast #podcastshow #podcastepisode #sensoryregulation #sensoryintegration #sensory #emotionalwellbeing #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters

EP:107 On this week’s episode of Thrive Like a Parent Podcast we are going to talk about the importance of setting boundaries and enforcing natural consequences for children without resorting to anger or resentment.    We must set consistent, firm boundaries and natural consequences, such as chores or writing lines, to teach our children respect and responsibility.    You get to decide what behaviors are and aren't acceptable in your home, and enforce boundaries for unacceptable behaviors. You must claim the driver's seat in your home.    I encourage you to parent the child in front of you, not the child you fear they will become. Don’t let fear hold you back.    If you hold boundaries, if you give them natural consequences, what they are going to do is actually build a stronger relationship, trusting dynamic with you, a greater bond of respect with you. And I guarantee you, they will be happier humans, because you've made a very structured life, and they know what's expected of them. And we're going to continue down that path.   We are their teacher, and it is okay to teach. You got this.    XOXO, Dr. B   #thrivelikeaparentpodcast #podcast #newepisode #parenting #adulthood #sensoryregulation

In this week's Thrive Like a Parent podcast, I dive deep into the importance of setting boundaries with kids with caution against doing it in a mean or angry way.   I share my views on ADHD, and argue that the diagnostic system is too focused on labeling people with "disorders" rather than embracing the diversity of human experiences. I also emphasize the need for better education about how the brain functions, as many ADHD symptoms are common experiences that people may think are "normal."   I also discuss the concept of being a "sensory seeker" and how it relates to ADHD-like symptoms, encouraging everyone to embrace their power and brilliance while learning to manage their intense experiences.   Check out this episode to learn more about this thought-provoking perspective!   #thrivelikeaparent #throvelikeaparentpodcast #newepisode #consciousparenting #gentleparenting #neurosensory #neurosensoryparenting #sensoryregulation #emotionalregulation #selfregulation #parenting #parenthood #podcastformoms #toppodcast

New episode on Thrive Like a Parent Podcast. Trust me you don’t want to miss this one. XOXO, Dr. B #thrivelikeaparent #throvelikeaparentpodcast #newepisode #consciousparenting #gentleparenting #neurosensory #neurosensoryparenting #sensoryregulation #emotionalregulation #selfregulation #parenting #parenthood #podcastformoms #toppodcast