Globally Thriving Families

Send us Fan MailHidden Skills for School Readiness in Globally Mobile Families (with Adam Griffin, Pediatric OT)Host Clare O’Byrne interviews Adam Griffin, a pediatric occupational therapist in Dubai, CEO and medical director of Hakkini Mental Health Clinic. With children returning to school, they discuss school readiness as more than academics, emphasizing Adam’s guiding idea, “kids do well if they can,” and focusing on identifying barriers to learning rather than box-ticking skills. They cover foundational factors such as safety and emotional security, sensory processing, motor confidence, socialization, independence, self-care, and the developmental value of play for older children, including shared play and reducing screen-time competition. They address parent anxiety, understanding a child’s needs (including neurodivergence), advocating collaboratively with schools, and the added challenges of international transitions, highlighting the importance of stable family culture and supportive community connections. Adam explains Hakkini’s integrated, relationship-based multidisciplinary approach and how parents can reach him at @adamtheot.00:00 Welcome to the Podcast02:02 Meet Adam The OT04:36 School Readiness Reframed08:37 Foundational Skills Pyramid13:00 Why Play Still Matters14:50 Screens vs Real Play22:00 Micro Reps Build Skills24:52 Calming Academic Anxiety30:07 Transitions in Expat Life31:18 Building Roots and Community34:15 School Fit and Stability35:25 Neurodivergent Transition Support36:41 Parent Advocacy Mindset40:09 Curating Supportive Coaches42:21 Redefining Success Metrics44:15 Dads and Daily Presence49:16 Inside Hakkini Clinic Model53:14 Integrated School Partnerships58:16 Why MDT Beats Mixed Advice01:00:43 Closing and How to Reach OutAdam's Summer Quest Challenge Activities: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EsYE2hYvVpvrXfptUtPsg72EGaNQBrI-/view?usp=drive_link Connect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailMoving Countries with Kids: The Mental Load, Dual Emotions, and Getting Through the Messy MiddleHost Clare O’Byrne welcomes listeners back to the Globally Thriving Families podcast after a few months off, sharing reflections from her recent move from the UAE to Canada. She describes how the mental load begins long before packing, with uncertainty, research, planning, and “project management” demands while closing down one life and starting another, all while considering children’s adjustment. After arrival, she notes there is “no autopilot,” as rebuilding systems like housing, schools, healthcare, banking, and transportation requires constant executive function and can lead to exhaustion and overwhelm. Claire emphasizes the duality of feelings—excitement and grief, gratitude and fatigue—and the inevitability of the uncomfortable “messy middle.” She recommends cultivating small “glimmers” to support regulation during prolonged stress and reminds listeners there’s no set timeline for feeling settled.00:00 Welcome to the Podcast01:01 Host Update and Big Move02:46 The Mental Load Before Packing06:01 No Autopilot After Arrival09:05 Holding Mixed Emotions10:09 The Messy Middle Phase11:40 Finding Glimmers for Relief13:20 Final Takeaways and GoodbyeConnect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailManaging Holiday Stress and Overstimulation for International FamiliesIn this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, discusses the mental load, pressure, and overstimulation that the holiday season can bring, especially for internationally parenting families. Clare offers insights on how to handle the chaos, prioritize self-care, and create low-pressure, memorable moments that foster connection and joy. She also introduces actionable micro habits to help families thrive during the holiday season.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families01:00 Holiday Season Challenges for International Parents02:06 Managing Mental Load and Social Expectations03:45 Sensory Overstimulation and Pressure06:50 Creating Core Memories and Micro Moments08:50 Practical Tips for a Balanced Holiday Season11:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement12:21 Connect and Learn MoreResources mentioned in the episode: Thriving Through the Winter Holidays and the Heavy Work Suggestions: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lDcIxpX-0ip7JAqkI8vMW_gygLvnpuGu/view?usp=sharing  Connect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailNavigating sibling conflict: when doing less is more. In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, addresses the common parenting challenge of sibling conflict. Clare provides insights into why sibling bickering is hard for parents to tolerate and how it impacts our emotional regulation. She offers practical strategies for managing sibling rivalry and conflict by distinguishing between different types of conflicts, emphasizing the importance of allowing children space to develop essential social skills. Clare also discusses how parents can stay calm and use grounding techniques to support their children's emotional development. The episode includes advice on how to co-regulate with children, the significance of post-conflict repair and reconnection, and offers resources for further support.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast01:03 The Reality of Sibling Relationships02:16 Understanding the Root Causes of Sibling Conflicts04:21 Defining Sibling Rivalry and Conflict06:10 The Importance of Conflict in Child Development08:20 Parental Strategies for Managing Sibling Conflicts12:28 Repairing and Reconnecting After Conflicts15:33 Conclusion and Further SupportResources mentioned in the episode:Guide to Sibling Dynamics: Rivalry, Conflict, Aggression or Abuse. https://www.unh.edu/saara/sites/default/files/media/2025-10/classification-of-sibling-dynamics-handout.pdfConnect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailHow your body, your past and your current reality collide in tough parenting moments.In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, delves into the challenges of 'staying calm' as a parent, particularly in high-stress moments triggered by a child's big emotions. Clare explains the neurobiological factors at play, including the activation of the amygdala, stress hormones, and mirror neurons, which make staying calm difficult despite knowing effective strategies. She also explores how past childhood experiences and the unique stressors of parenting in an international context can affect emotional regulation. Clare emphasizes the importance of awareness, self-compassion, and co-regulation—being present and connected with your child, rather than solely focusing on staying calm—as crucial steps in managing these challenging situations. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for parents seeking to support their children's emotional well-being and navigate their own reactions.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families01:02 Understanding Parental Stress and Child Emotions02:54 The Neurobiology of Stress Responses06:02 Impact of Past Experiences on Parenting08:58 Challenges of International Parenting15:21 The Importance of Co-Regulation18:49 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailThriving in Chaos: Micro Habits for Parents and CaregiversIn this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a  parent coach and occupational therapist, explores the concept of thriving amidst the chaos of daily life, especially for parents and caregivers raising children internationally. She delves into the dynamic nature of thriving, emphasizing that it's not about perfection but about feeling alive and learning. Clare discusses the importance of understanding the brain-body connection, particularly through the lens of our eight senses, including proprioception, vestibular, and interoception. She offers practical micro habits to help individuals feel more grounded and connected, despite the hectic nature of life. This episode is a guide to building resilience and nurturing oneself through small, manageable actions.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families01:02 The Myth of Perfect Timing for Thriving02:14 Defining Thriving and Its Challenges10:59 Understanding the Brain-Body Connection18:15 Practical Tips for Sensory Regulation24:21 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsReferences mentioned in the episode: A Socially Embedded Model of Thriving at Work. Gretchen Spreitzer et al, Oct 2005, Organization Science, Vol 16. Connect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailA flexible lens for parents that considers the child, the caregiver, the context, and core values to guide your parenting. In this episode of Globally Thriving Families, host Clare O'Byrne emphasizes the importance of moving beyond popular parenting styles by understanding the unique needs of each child, the parent's background, the context of upbringing, and core family values. She introduces a simplified framework using the Four Cs—Child, Caregiver, Context, and Core Values—to guide parents in their daily interactions. Clare also explores foundational studies on parenting approaches and how to navigate the nuances of raising children, particularly in globally mobile and neurodivergent families.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families01:06 Podcast Schedule 01:46 Understanding Popular Parenting Styles03:02 Beyond Parenting Styles: The Nuances04:12 Historical Perspectives on Parenting Approaches05:51 Modern Parenting Styles and Their Implications08:06 The Need for Nuanced Parenting14:41 The Four Cs: A New Parenting Framework17:11 Implementing the Four Cs in Your Parenting18:24 Conclusion and next stepsResources mentioned in this episode: The Conscious Parent. Dr. Shefali Tsabary.The Gentle Parenting Book. Sarah Ockwell-Smith.Brain-Body Parenting. Dr. Mona Delahooke.Connect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailHow to support our kids (and ourselves) to navigate international moves with Mika Izekor.In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, Clare talks with Mika Izekor, a cultural intelligence consultant and adult third culture kid. Clare and Mika dive deep into the emotional impacts of big transitions, strategies for fostering resilience, and the importance of maintaining connections to one's cultural roots. Mika shares her personal journey and professional insights, offering practical advice for parents to support their children through relocations. The discussion touches on the value of compassion, authenticity, and the power of shared experiences in helping kids adapt to new environments.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast01:07 Meet Mika Izekor: Cultural Intelligence Consultant02:25 Mika's Journey: From Makeup to Coaching04:35 Understanding Cultural Intelligence08:06 The Emotional Impact of Relocation on Families12:56 Navigating Relocation: Practical and Emotional Challenges21:07 The Role of Parents in Supporting Children Through Transitions29:50 Parental Stress and Child's Reevaluation30:16 Navigating New School and Cultural Differences31:20 Overinflating Positives of Relocation32:58 Addressing Children's Fears and Concerns38:28 Balancing Parental Uncertainty and Support42:00 Building Resilience in Children45:46 Practical Strategies for Supporting Children50:04 Understanding Cultural Impact on Parenting56:08 Conclusion and Workshop InformationResources mentioned in this episode: Third Culture Kids: The Experience of Growing Up Among Worlds. David C. Pollock & Ruth E. Van Reken.Connect with Mika:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mika-holborow Website: www.inelementcoaching.com Instagram: in.element.coaching Connect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailLetting Go of Perfection: Embracing Good Enough ParentingIn this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne addresses the pressure parents, especially those raising children internationally, feel to create perfect experiences for their kids. She unpacks the sources of this pressure, including guilt, fear of missing out, and social media comparisons. Clare introduces the concept of 'good enough parenting,' backed by scientific research from experts like Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. She explains the four S's (safe, seen, soothed, secure) that children need to develop a secure attachment, emphasizing that perfection is not required. Clare encourages parents to reflect on their own experiences and to focus on showing up for their children in everyday moments.00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families01:11 The Pressure of Perfect Parenting03:48 Understanding the Source of Parenting Pressure06:51 The Science of 'Good Enough' Parenting11:50 Practical Tips for Showing Up14:01 Reflecting on Your Parenting Journey15:27 Conclusion and Next StepsResources mentioned in this episode:The Power of Showing Up: how parental pressure shapes who our kids become and how their brains gets wired. Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne BrysonConnect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Send us Fan MailNavigating Summer Breaks as an International Family: Strategies for a Thriving ExperienceIn this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, explores strategies for managing the unique challenges of summer breaks for internationally mobile families. Clare recaps the previous discussion on the difficulties of living out of a suitcase during holidays and delves into practical tips including using visual supports for trip planning, creating daily anchor routines, understanding sensory preferences, handling external parenting advice, and the power of storytelling. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast01:01 Recap of Previous Episode: Challenges of Holiday Travels03:40 Strategies for Managing Executive Function Overload04:48 Establishing Anchor Routines for Stability05:38 Understanding Sensory Preferences for Better Parenting08:51 Maintaining Autonomy While Staying with Others11:15 Exploring Identity and Belonging12:51 Recap and Final ThoughtsConnect with Clare: [email protected] the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.comConnect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thrivingBook a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting