Wondering how to stop meltdowns before they hijack your whole day?

In this episode, I break down the real causes of temper tantrums - and how to prevent them by setting clear expectations with your child. You’ll learn exactly how to handle disappointment when your child’s big dreams crash into reality, and how to approach parenting without power struggles in a way that’s practical, compassionate, and grounded in real-life experience.

• Why unmet expectations are one of the most common causes of temper tantrum - and how to catch them early
• The 3-step method for how to stop meltdowns using simple conversations before the conflict
• What to do when your child’s plans are totally unrealistic - and still avoid disappointment
• How to frame hard moments as learning opportunities and practice parenting without power struggles
• A surprising way to reduce the causes of temper tantrum by listening differently

Whether you're facing birthday party drama or a meltdown in Target, you’ll walk away knowing how to handle disappointment with more ease - and how to practice parenting without power struggles in the moments that matter most.

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Ever wonder how to strike the right balance between pushing your child to succeed and respecting autonomy in children?

Today’s episode tackles just that - because knowing whether to step in or take a step back can feel like a balancing act.

On this episode, I chat with therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Kristin Mervich about the tricky dilemma high-achieving parents face: when to keep pushing your child to succeed, when to trust autonomy in children, and how guiding a child sometimes means knowing when to back off.

We dig into the effects of parental pressure on a child to succeed - for better or worse - and share a clear framework to help you make thoughtful choices that empower both you and your child.

• How to honor autonomy in children without dropping the ball on motivation by pushing your child to succeed - and when that’s okay.
• What the effects of parental pressure on a child to succeed really look like - mental health, confidence, and that inner spark. Tune in to hear Kristin’s real-life examples.
• Why guiding a child starts with understanding the “why” behind their resistance - and how that insight changes everything.
• A simple 4-question formula to decide: Should you push? Pause? Or pivot? It’s like having a parenting GPS.

If you’ve ever asked: “Am I overdoing it by pushing my kid? Or am I selling them short?” - this episode is for you.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 10: Is Anxiety Good for You? 3 Steps for Building Confidence in Kids When They’re Trying New Things with Ivy Ruths, PhD

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CONNECT WITH KRISTIN MERVICH, LCSW:

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In the wake of the heartbreaking tragedy at Camp Mystic this weekend, many parents are struggling to find the right words to comfort and guide their children.

I created this short, unedited episode to help you navigate those difficult conversations with your children, including the script I used with my 6-year-old at home. This is a raw version of what would typically be a full Educated Parent podcast episode that I recorded quickly to meet the moment, because I know many of you are searching for guidance right now.

Whether your child was directly affected or simply heard about the news, it's important to offer age-appropriate support, validate their emotions, and create a sense of safety. My heart is with everyone in Houston as we navigate this together.

LET'S CONNECT:

Thriving Child Center

PCIT Experts

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Love having expert tips you can actually use? Join our newsletter and get a beautifully designed PDF of each episode’s top 3 takeaways - delivered straight to your inbox every week.

Are you a provider? Subscribe here for professional insights and parenting resources!