Welcome back, connected parents! In this heartfelt episode of Connected Parenting, we’re diving into one of the most emotionally challenging moments many parents face; the shift that happens when your child starts to pull away and step into the world of adolescence. I take a close look at this transition, especially between mothers and daughters, when the once chatty, affectionate little girl becomes more withdrawn, independent, and focused on her peers. For many parents, this change feels like a form of grief—there’s a sadness, a sense of being left behind, and a deep questioning of where they now fit in their child’s life.Full of empathy and grounded in practical advice, this episode offers strategies to stay close, even as the relationship begins to change. Whether you're in the thick of it or seeing the early signs, today's episode will help you navigate this season of change with compassion and clarity.Remember just because it feels different doesn’t mean you’re losing your child. You’re simply being invited to show up for them in a new way.Jennifer's Takeaways:Understanding the Transition to Teenagehood (00:00)Biological and Cultural Context of Adolescence (02:21)Emotional Impact on Parents and Teenagers (06:23)Navigating Social Interactions and Connections (07:20)Effective Communication and Connection Techniques (15:40)Managing Expectations and Emotional Resilience (15:56)Meet Jennifer KolariJennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).
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17:14
Why They Can’t Hurry Up (Time Blindness in Kids and What to Do About It) | CP207
In this episode of Connected Parenting, we’re tackling one of the most frustrating challenges for parents: time blindness. You know the scene; your child is moving at a snail’s pace, one leg in their pants, completely unaware of the ticking clock while you’re shouting, “Let’s go!”Time blindness is a very real neurological issue for many kids and teens, especially those who are highly sensitive, neurodivergent, or struggle with executive functioning. They don’t mean to frustrate you—they’re just wired differently when it comes to sensing and managing time.If mornings, transitions, and deadlines feel like constant battles, this episode will help you understand the root cause—and guide you toward more peaceful, productive days.Jennifer's Takeaways:Understanding Time Blindness in Children (00:00)The Role of the Frontal Lobe in Time Management (02:39)Consequences of Time Blindness (08:53)Strategies for Managing Time Blindness (11:38)Practical Tips for Improving Time Management (17:29)Seeking Professional Help (20:09)Meet Jennifer KolariJennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).
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21:37
Great At School & Horrible At Home | CP206
In today’s episode of the Connected Parenting Podcast, we’re diving into a scenario that leaves so many parents scratching their heads — the child who’s perfect at school but melts down at home.You know the story: your child is polite, focused, and adored by teachers, but the second they walk through your front door, it’s like a switch flips. Suddenly, you're dealing with tantrums, defiance, or emotional outbursts and you're left wondering, why am I getting the worst while everyone else gets the best?If you’ve ever felt like your child gives their best to the world and their worst to you—this conversation will offer clarity, comfort, and actionable tools so you can navigate this tricky dynamic with confidence and connection.Jennifer's Takeaways:Kids Who Excel at School but Misbehave at Home (00:00)Understanding the Behavior of "Gladiator Kids" (02:31)Sensitivity and Emotional Regulation in Children (04:14)Anxiety and Reactive Behavior in Children (06:58)Strategies for Managing Behavior at Home (10:04)Connecting Before Correcting and Bonding with Children (14:46)The Role of Consistency and Predictability in Parenting (17:17)Resources and Support for Parents (17:50)The Importance of Understanding Neuro Spicy Kids (18:23)Meet Jennifer KolariJennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).
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18:44
Spring Fever | CP205
Seasonal transitions; particularly spring can deeply affect highly sensitive or as I like to call them "neuro-spicy" kids.While spring brings feelings of renewal and excitement for many, the change in routine, environment, and even the weather can be incredibly dysregulating for children with big feelings. These transitions can create emotional turbulence, behavioral flare-ups, and increased anxiety if not handled with care.Whether it’s adjusting to daylight saving time, the end of the school year, or just shifting from winter into warmer days, this episode will help you support your child through it all with empathy, structure, and the CALM Connected Parenting method of connection.Tune in now for practical tips and support in helping things run as smoothly as possible.Jennifer's Takeaways:Spring Transitions and Highly Sensitive Kids (00:00)The Impact of State Changes on the Brain (02:08)Seasonal Changes and Behavioral Issues (04:10)Strategies for Managing Spring Transitions (06:44)Addressing Sleep and Clothing Issues (10:02)Maintaining a Positive Outlook (12:15)Meet Jennifer KolariJennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).
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13:39
Parenting Kids with Panic Attacks | CP204
Panic attacks—these intense moments can come on suddenly and feel terrifying, whether you’re experiencing one or witnessing your child go through it.In this week's episode I’ll help you understand the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack, what’s happening in the brain during these episodes, and most importantly, how to respond in a calm, supportive, and effective way. You’ll learn practical strategies to help your child feel safe, grounded, and empowered when panic takes over, and how to support their overall emotional well-being going forward.Whether you're navigating this now or preparing for the future, this episode is full of essential tools and compassionate insight to help your family through.Jennifer's Takeaways:Understanding Panic Attacks (00:00)Differences Between Panic and Anxiety Attacks (02:11)The Impact of Panic Attacks on Parents and Children (03:22)Strategies for Managing Panic Attacks (07:33)Practical Techniques for Calming Down (13:39)Long-Term Management and Therapy (21:59)Meet Jennifer KolariJennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).
Connected Parenting shares techniques that therapists use to help parents soothe their child as well as enhance the parent-child bond and is based on the understanding that correcting and guiding behavior works best when it is preceded by and linked to empathy. At the heart of this parenting model is the CALM Technique which helps parents accurately attune to children’s affect and experience. These empathic interactions release reward chemicals in the brain that stimulate positive emotions and increase order and balance in the nervous system. Reward chemicals, including natural opiates, endorphins, and a powerful hormone called oxytocin, reduce and inhibit stress hormones and bathe the brain in positive emotions that ripple through every cell in the body. The benefits of empathy and compassion have a strong base in science that cannot be underestimated. Simply put, it is brain food, the emotional nutrition all of us need, perhaps our children most of all.
Although many parenting techniques stress the importance of empathy, Connected Parenting will show you how to use it skillfully to repair frayed bonds, deescalate tantrums, contain and correct difficult behaviors and help your child to become more confident and emotionally resilient. We use a collaborative and supportive coaching model and provide inspirational, easy-to-understand techniques grounded in neuroscience and attachment. In the end, your child will be more compliant, more relaxed, and – most importantly – happier. Connected Parenting will bring out the best in you and your child.
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