The Child Psych Podcast

How do we raise children who not only feel a deep sense of belonging, but actively create it for others? In this powerful conversation, we explore what it truly means to raise inclusive, compassionate, and socially aware children. Grounded in developmental science and real-life parenting, this episode unpacks how belonging begins in the earliest relationships—through secure attachment, emotional safety, and being truly seen and heard at home. From there, we look at how children develop empathy, identity, and the courage to speak up against unfairness.We discuss why children are naturally curious—not judgmental—and how bias is learned through environment, messaging, and silence. You’ll learn why avoiding conversations about race and difference can leave children vulnerable to harmful narratives, and how open, honest dialogue builds both critical thinking and emotional safety. This episode also highlights the importance of modeling over telling—because how we respond to exclusion, injustice, and everyday moments teaches children far more than words alone. Ultimately, raising anti-racist children isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence, practice, and the willingness to lean into discomfort as we grow alongside themDr. Gaiathry Jeyarajan is a clinical psychologist, educator, and advocate dedicated to helping children develop a strong sense of identity, belonging, and social responsibility. Through her work, she supports families and professionals in navigating conversations around race, equity, and emotional development in ways that are both developmentally appropriate and deeply impactful. She is also the author of Ella’s Choice, a children’s book that empowers young readers to recognize fairness, embrace differences, and find their voice in standing up for others. Dr. Jeyarajan’s work bridges research and real-world parenting, offering practical tools for raising compassionate, courageous children in an increasingly complex worldClick here to find out more about " I Love You More Than Rice and Curry" : https://a.co/d/0bBWYpxK Dr Gaiathry's Instagram is also fantastic: https://www.instagram.com/lifeofashrink/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with education leader and co-author Mike Goldstein to unpack a fresh, real-world perspective on ADHD—based on his book I’ll Do It Later: Surviving School (and Renewing the Love) with Your ADHD Son. Drawing on detailed case studies of boys navigating school, motivation, and daily life, Mike challenges the idea that ADHD can be solved with simple strategies or quick fixes. Instead, he highlights a deeper truth: many children with ADHD genuinely want to succeed but struggle with task initiation, follow-through, and sustaining attention—especially outside structured environments like school.Together, we explore why traditional approaches often fall short, how modern factors like technology and shrinking attention spans are influencing ADHD, and what actually helps. Mike shares practical insights for parents and educators, including how to better understand executive functioning challenges, reduce frustration, and support kids in building motivation and independence over time.This conversation moves beyond labels and quick solutions, offering a compassionate, realistic look at what it’s like to live with ADHD—and how we can better support children who are trying, even when it doesn’t look like it.                                                                           What you’ll learn:*Why ADHD is often misunderstood as a motivation problem rather than an execution challenge*How executive functioning impacts homework, routines, and follow-through*Why many well-intended strategies don’t stick—and what to do instead*The role of environment, relationships, and coaching in supporting ADHD*How to shift from frustration to understanding in your parenting approachTo find out more about Mike, click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re airing a re-run today of one of our most popular podcast episodes with Dr. Laura Markham.Most parents think that if our child would just "behave," we could maintain our composure as parents. The truth is that managing our own emotions and actions is what allows us to feel peaceful as parents. Ultimately we can’t control our children or the hand life deals them—but we can always control our own actions. Parenting isn’t about what our child does, but about how we respond."In this podcast we interview one of our FAVOURITE parenting experts Dr. Laura Markham, Clinical Psychologist, best-selling author of the book "Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids" and "Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings" and founder of AHA!Parenting where we talk about how to keep our cool as parents! Want more of Dr. Markham?! Use code ICPSAVE30 to TAKE 30% OFF her courses: Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings: https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/product/peaceful-parent-happy-siblings-how-to-stop-the-fighting-raise-friends-for-life/ How to Raise an Emotionally Healthy Child: https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/product/how-to-raise-an-emotionally-intelligent-child/Interested in more from the Institute? The Parenting Handbook: Your Guide to Raising Resilient Children is the ultimate guide to nurturing emotional regulation, resiliency, connection, and well-being in children. Find out more here Our  parenting membership comes with over 90 Parenting & Mental Health Courses and more!. Click here Our professional membership offers affordable, accessible training all in one spot for mental health professionals! Find out more  hereWe have amazing free parenting content on:YoutubeInstagramFacebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Childhood anxiety is more common than many parents realize, and it can show up in ways that are confusing or overwhelming for both children and the adults who care for them. In this episode, we explore how worries take shape in a child’s mind and what families can do to help children build confidence, resilience, and bravery in the face of fear.Inspired by the ideas behind Shrink Your Worries, this conversation focuses on practical ways to help children understand their anxious thoughts, calm their bodies, and gradually face the situations that feel scary. Rather than trying to eliminate worry completely, the goal is to help children learn that they are capable of moving through fear with the right tools and support.We discuss why worries can feel so big for children, how avoidance can unintentionally strengthen anxiety, and why small steps toward bravery can make a powerful difference over time. Parents will also learn how to respond to anxious moments with calm, connection, and encouragement so children feel supported rather than overwhelmed.This episode is especially helpful for parents, educators, and professionals who want to better understand childhood anxiety and learn practical strategies that empower children to face their worries with courage.To find out more about Poppy, click here , more here too on Poppy's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poppyoneillbooks/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this sneak peak from our upcoming summit, we are joined by renowned clinician, researcher, and author Dr. Robert Melillo for an in-depth conversation on understanding and supporting children with neurodevelopmental challenges.Dr. Melillo, a leading expert in functional neurology and creator of the Brain Balance Program, shares insights from decades of research and clinical work with children experiencing difficulties such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, OCD, and other learning and behavioral challenges. Drawing from his best-selling book Disconnected Kids, he explains how subtle imbalances in brain development can affect behavior, learning, attention, and emotional regulation.Throughout the episode, Dr. Melillo breaks down the concept of functional disconnection syndrome, describing how differences in communication between brain regions — particularly between the hemispheres — may contribute to many of the struggles children experience. He also discusses how the brain’s remarkable ability to change through neuroplasticity opens the door to meaningful intervention and growth.Listeners will hear practical, research-informed strategies that can be used at home, in schools, or in clinical settings to support developing brains. From movement-based therapies and sensory stimulation to nutrition and cognitive exercises, this conversation explores holistic approaches designed to strengthen brain networks and support long-term development.👀 Something Big Is Coming for Parents…We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust us, you’re going to want this in your back pocket. More details soon!The 2026 ICP Parenting Summit is next month!Join us March 16–19 for 35+ expert masterclasses and four interactive half-day workshops, featuring leading voices like Ross Greene, Laura Markham, Robert Melillo, Lawrence Cohen, Kim John Payne, and Jon Fogel. We’ll be diving into the topics parents need most: screens, discipline, anxiety, emotional regulation, neurodiversity, resilience, play, and more.The summit is completely free, and VIP packages include lifetime access, toolkits, certificates, and a digital copy of The Parenting Handbook.Click here to save your seat!• how to repair and reconnect after the storm has passed• ways to build emotional skills so these explosions happen less oftenTammy and Tania share compassionate, practical strategies that help parents lead with steadiness instead of shame or punishment. You’ll walk away understanding how to hold boundaries while still protecting your connection — even in the hardest moments.If you’ve ever felt crushed, angry, or unsure what to do after hearing those words, this episode will help you see them differently and respond in a way that strengthens your relationship rather than strains it.A must-listen for parents raising emotionally healthy, resilient kids.In this episode, you’ll learn:• The science behind functional disconnection syndrome and how it relates to neurodevelopmental disorders• How hemispheric brain imbalances may influence behavior, learning, and motor skills• Non-medical interventions that can support brain development, including diet, movement, sensory input, and targeted cognitive activities• How neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganize and strengthen over time• Practical ways parents, educators, and clinicians can implement these approaches to help children thriveThis episode is a must-listen for parents, therapists, educators, and healthcare professionals seeking a deeper understanding of the developing brain — and practical tools to better support children facing learning, behavioral, and developmental challenges.LINK TO HIS BEST-SELLING BOOK--> https://a.co/d/0jdB23nD Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.