• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:00:56) - How Perfectionism Affects Children
• (00:02:49) - Wonders of the World
• (00:08:40) - Paul Feist on Praise for Children
• (00:13:40) - How to Encourage a Child to Do Things
• (00:17:44) - I Can Do Hard Things For My Child
• (00:22:10) - The Importance of Independence for Kids
• (00:25:51) - How to Talk About Your Mistakes (with Your Child!)
• (00:27:35) - Drawing for Chris Finch
• (00:29:58) - Parenting Matters

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of responding to challenging behaviors—from tantrums to those small but persistent habits that test every parent’s patience. Learn more about how ignoring certain behaviors can create confusion for children and why our reactions play a powerful role in shaping what they learn. We discuss being present during difficult moments, setting loving but firm limits, and helping children understand boundaries.

We also talk about how kids observe adult reactions, why they test limits for reassurance, and how parents and caregivers can redirect behavior in ways that build confidence and emotional security. Finally, we discuss the role of socializing children—teaching them when certain language or behaviors are appropriate and how to navigate different environments. Explore our strategies to help you respond with clarity, connection, and intention—even in the most frustrating moments.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• What message does ignoring a child’s behavior actually send?
• How do children learn from the way adults react to their actions?
• Why can setting limits be one of the clearest ways to show love and care?
• What might children feel when their tantrums are ignored?
• Why do children test boundaries, and what are they really looking for in those moments?
• When should parents address annoying behaviors instead of ignoring them?
• How can redirecting behavior be more effective than simply tuning it out?
• What does it really mean to socialize children and teach them appropriate language?
• Why is it important to acknowledge every feeling—even difficult ones?
• How do clear boundaries help children feel safer and more secure?

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  
• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show
  
  

Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:01:12) - Don't Ignore People's Behavior
• (00:08:30) - Don't Ignore Child Behavior
• (00:12:00) - The Parenting of Children
• (00:13:29) - Setting Limits for Abusive Behavior
• (00:17:30) - Banging on the Floor With a Child
• (00:20:14) - Potty Talk
• (00:24:58) - Using Words in Front of Kids
• (00:28:01) - How to Talk to a Child About Words
• (00:32:13) - Why Not to Ignore a Tantrum
• (00:37:37) - Parenting Matters: Alternatives to Eggshells

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:01:03) - 3 Questions for Parents of Pre-Schoolers
• (00:07:55) - Don't Ask Your Child to Listen to You
• (00:13:04) - How to Train a Child's Respect
• (00:16:48) - When Does My Child Refuse To Put On His Shoes?
• (00:20:46) - Choosing Your Battles
• (00:26:17) - Reasons for No-Reaction Decisions
• (00:30:39) - The T tantrum
• (00:32:06) - Parenting Matters

Covered in this episode:

• Bedtime has been a total circus lately! One will be going to brush his teeth and then the younger one will decide to do a nudy run and then the older who was originally on task, will follow. They are starting to figure out they can team up against us!  

• My younger sibling weaponizes being the youngest! She screams, gets away with things and I am often at a loss of how to discipline.

• You never get Rosie in trouble, she’s your favorite-if I did that I would have been in so much trouble-why doesn’t she have a consequence?

This episode offers thoughtful insights and actionable tools for parents navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of raising siblings.

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  
• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show
  
  

Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters: Real Talk From Kids to Teens
• (00:01:12) - Sibling Questions
• (00:01:46) - How To Have Different Bedtimes For Your Child
• (00:06:16) - How to Deal with an Overwhelmment by Kids
• (00:10:31) - The Power of Remarks
• (00:12:29) - Bedtime strategies
• (00:14:23) - How to Discipline the Younger Sibling (
• (00:20:06) - You're Worth Your Time
• (00:22:24) - Sibling Question: Why Doesn't My Daughter Get In Trouble?
• (00:26:47) - How to Talk to Your Child About Bad Behavior
• (00:28:02) - How to Build Up a Troublesome Child
• (00:33:28) - Parenting Matters

Rebecca explores the beautiful (and sometimes jarring) contrast between Thanksgiving gratitude and the consumer rush of Black Friday and the holiday season. She reflects on how to nurture a spirit of thankfulness in young children, shares her family’s long-loved gratitude traditions, and offers gentle ways to shift the holiday focus from buying to truly being together.

If you’re looking for a heart-forward, calmer holiday season and a thoughtful gift guide, this episode will leave you inspired, grounded, and ready to create magic that lasts far beyond Christmas morning.

Rebecca also breaks down her early childhood teacher approved approach to gift giving — including the play-based curriculum framework she uses to choose toys that last, spark creativity, and discourage materialism. From blocks and dramatic play to arts, outdoor toys, sensory materials, books, music, and experiences, she highlights meaningful gift ideas that grow with children rather than overwhelm them.

Check out our 'ECM Approved' holiday gift guide here.

Full transcript here. 

 Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  
• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show
  
  

Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Episode 10: Sibling Rivalry — Rethinking Fairness at Home

In this episode, Rebecca and Belann unpack the roots of sibling rivalry and explore why striving for perfect fairness can sometimes make things worse. Learn how to help your kids navigate feelings of unfairness, celebrate their differences, and build stronger, more understanding relationships with each other.

They answer the questions:

• What is the role of the concept of fairness in sibling rivalry and how does it impact children? 

• Why might striving for fairness (in the sense of equality) actually exacerbate conflict between siblings? 

• How can parents help children understand and accept differences between siblings, instead of consistently treating everything as “fair”?

• How can parents support children in navigating feelings of unfairness—rather than simply trying to make everything equal?

To view the equity/equality image Rebeca mentions, please visit our site: https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  
• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show
  
  

Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:01:03) - How to Prevent sibling conflict
• (00:04:09) - Setting the Tone for a Family
• (00:07:49) - Parents Get Involved in Children's Fights
• (00:08:17) - Always Want Everything to Be Fair
• (00:13:15) - The Right to a Deficit
• (00:13:51) - Fighting in the Family
• (00:18:36) - The Problem-Solving Approach to Children
• (00:21:58) - How To Bridge The Gap Between My Younger Child and My Older Son
• (00:27:11) - How To Have A Good Night's Sleep
• (00:27:51) - Parenting Matters

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.

Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:01:01) - How to Help Your Child Transition to a Sister
• (00:07:17) - The Secret to More Love For Your Child
• (00:09:30) - The Divide and Conquer With My Daughter
• (00:13:18) - Going back to school for 3 year old
• (00:15:04) - Never Hit Your Baby
• (00:18:33) - Other ideas for nursing your child while reading a story
• (00:23:32) - How to Stop Hitting the Baby!
• (00:28:29) - The guilt of hugging a baby
• (00:29:35) - The Greatest Gifts a Sister Can Offer a Child
• (00:35:07) - Parenting Matters

In this episode of Parenting Matters, the hosts discuss the various transitions children face as they start school, including moving from home care to preschool, changing classrooms, and beginning kindergarten. They provide practical tips for parents to help their children navigate these changes, emphasizing the importance of preparation, emotional support, and fostering independence. The conversation highlights the significance of acknowledging children's feelings while also encouraging them to face their fears and build confidence in new environments.

Takeaways

• Every child transitions differently to school.
• Creating an experience book can help children adjust.
• Parents should model calmness to reassure children.
• Acknowledging a child's feelings is crucial.
• Bravery is not the absence of fear, but overcoming it.
• Building a routine can ease morning chaos.
• Playdates can help children make new friends.
• Gradually adjusting bedtime routines is important.
• Children need time to decompress after school.
• Trusting in a child's ability to adapt is key.

Book recommendations: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/04/books/preschool-books.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare   Other books we love: The Kissing Hand and Lena’s Shoes are Nervous

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  
• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show
  
  
• Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters: Real Talk From Kids to Teens
• (00:01:03) - Parenting Matters: Starting School
• (00:01:41) - How to Handle Your Child's Fear About School
• (00:08:41) - How to Prepare Your Child for School
• (00:13:22) - How to help a child with a new classroom transition
• (00:19:00) - How to Prepare a Child for a New School
• (00:21:21) - How to Encourage New Friends in Kindergarten
• (00:24:27) - Bedtime and Morning Routine
• (00:32:27) - Kindergarten Transition Advice
• (00:38:52) - Day in Review with Parent
• (00:40:19) - How to Prepare for a Child's First Year of School
• (00:44:36) - Podcast

More About Girl Power Science and Konika Wong:

Konika co-founded GPS (Girl Power Science) with her daughter to empower girls to navigate growing up with confidence. She is an author, body literacy specialist, and mom on a mission to reframe pubertal changes as superpowers. Based in San Francisco, she has been a puberty educator for 23 years. Her popular children’s books, One in a Million – A First Book About Periods and How to Tame a Tickle Monster – A First Book About Body Safety, are designed for kids ages 4 and up. Konika is passionate about starting these conversations early and breaking cycles of shame by celebrating growth.

Definition of Body Literacy:

Body literacy is the ability to understand and respond to your body's signals—starting with basic needs like thirst, hunger, tiredness, and bathroom cues, and growing into more advanced awareness around things like screen time, relationships, and intuitive eating.

As a body literacy specialist, Konika teaches classes that combine social emotional learning and science on a variety of topics including body safety, friendship skills, body image, and puberty.

Questions Answered in This Podcast:

When should I start conversations about puberty? My son has seen me in the bathroom when I was on my period and asked if I was hurt and I didn’t know how to respond-he is 3 yrs?

I heard that using correct anatomical names for penis, vagina, vulva etc can protect children against abuse but my husband is really uncomfortable with these terms-any advice?

In my family periods were a curse for women, there was so much talk about how awful pms was-how do I paint a more positive view for my daughter? 

How do we respond to How did the baby get inside your tummy in a developmentally appropriate way. I don’t want to show I’m uncomfortable with the topic but don’t want to give the detailed sex ed talk to my preschooler either.

Takeaways

• It's never too early to start these conversations.
• The earlier we start, the easier it is for kids to understand.
• Kids can sense our comfort level with these topics.
• Using correct anatomical names empowers children against abuse.
• Creating a positive narrative around menstruation is...

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to Open Conversations About Puberty
• (00:02:54) - Starting Early: The Importance of Body Literacy
• (00:05:58) - Navigating Questions: How to Respond to Kids
• (00:08:59) - Creating a Positive Narrative Around Menstruation
• (00:11:57) - Understanding and Normalizing Periods
• (00:14:44) - Empowering Children with Body Knowledge
• (00:17:48) - Addressing Body Boundaries and Safety
• (00:20:47) - The Role of Parents in Body Education
• (00:23:50) - Flipping the Script on Negative Narratives
• (00:26:45) - Conclusion: Embracing Change and Growth

Takeaways

• Mental health skills can be learned and practiced.
• Social exclusion can start as early as third grade.
• Parents should validate their child's feelings of exclusion.
• It's important to teach children self-advocacy skills.
• Having one good friend can significantly impact a child's well-being.
• Parents should underreact to their child's social mistakes.
• Social dynamics in middle school can be challenging for both boys and girls.

Early intervention can prevent significant social challenges later on.

Children need tools to navigate social situations effectively.

Communication is key to understanding a child's social experiences.

For more info on Dr. Nina Kaiser and PracticeSF:

Practice San Francisco website: https://www.practicesanfrancisco.com

Other Mothers weekly newsletter on Substack:  https://othermothers.substack.com

Instagram: @practice.sf and @drninakaiser

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  

• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the sho...

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to Parenting Matters and Dr. Nina Kaiser
• (00:02:44) - Understanding Social Exclusion in Middle School
• (00:05:58) - The Importance of Early Intervention in Social Skills
• (00:08:59) - Navigating Birthday Party Exclusions
• (00:11:48) - Building Resilience Through Social Challenges
• (00:14:45) - The Role of Parents in Social Dynamics
• (00:17:54) - Helping Children Understand Exclusion
• (00:20:48) - The Impact of Social Media on Friendships
• (00:23:48) - When to Seek Professional Help for Social Issues
• (00:26:35) - The Importance of One Good Friend
• (00:29:51) - Supporting Children Through Injuries and Social Changes
• (00:32:37) - Encouraging Self-Advocacy in Children
• (00:35:29) - Conclusion and Resources for Families

Middle School/HS Edition

With special guest host, Rebecca’s 15 year old son, Joey! Learn how to create balance with screens, IRL (In Real Life Activities) and how to use summer to level up (or discover) your passions and interests!

Links to other companies/podcasts mentioned in Ep 5:
Let Grow Project When Parents Step Back, Kids Step UP
Screen Sense IRL Summer Packet-Screen time alternatives, contracts, and positive creative uses of tech 

Pixel Parenting: What Parents need to now about video game research on Spotify or Apple

Pixel Parenting: Brains, Screens, and Connection with Rebecca Walsh on

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Sumer Plans for Teens
• (00:01:12) - Are My Kids Ready for Summer?
• (00:04:58) - Balancing Downtime and Activities
• (00:09:03) - Navigating Camp Choices
• (00:12:49) - Finding Activities with Technology
• (00:13:48) - Navigating Screen Time and Gaming
• (00:16:09) - Creative Uses of Technology
• (00:19:36) - Engaging Alternatives to Screens
• (00:21:20) - Creating a 'Bucket List'
• (00:22:37) - Encouraging Reading in Teens
• (00:22:39) - Finding Volunteer Opportunities and Camps

You can make learning enjoyable, provide structure during Summer breaks, and empower your children to take charge of their experiences. Rebecca discusses tips for navigating transitions to Summer camps and balancing freedom with responsibility, along with strategies for engaging children in meaningful activities.

Chapters

• (00:01:40) - Balancing Learning and Fun for Kindergartener
• (00:08:01) - Transitioning Between Summer Camps
• (00:13:55) - Creating Structure in Unstructured Time
• (00:21:02) - Managing Screen Time and Bedtime
• (00:28:10) - Last Minute Camps and Activities

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Understanding Rejection in Childhood
• (00:17:49) - Navigating Playdates and Social Dynamics
• (00:27:43) - Birthday Party Etiquette and Social Skills

Parenting experts, Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto, explore the importance of fostering independence in children and adolescents, emphasizing the need for parents to gradually increase their expectations and responsibilities. They discuss how building life skills, encouraging problem-solving, and allowing children to navigate challenges contribute to their self-esteem and mental health. They highlight the significance of modeling resilience and the ability to cope with discomfort, ultimately preparing children for adulthood.

 Takeaways

• Building independence in children starts with small responsibilities.
• Changing expectations as children grow is crucial for their self-esteem.
• Life skills like laundry can foster a sense of capability.
• Encouraging children to solve their own problems boosts their confidence.
• Parents should model problem-solving behaviors for their children.
• Experiencing discomfort is essential for children's growth.
• Over-scheduling can hinder children's ability to cope with challenges.
• Allowing children to navigate social situations builds resilience.
• It's important to involve children in household tasks to lighten parental burdens.
• Parents should not give up on fostering independence, even when it's challenging.

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

• Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.
  
  
• Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show
  
  

Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:01:06) - Fostering Independence in Our Children
• (00:07:11) - How to Raise a Child's Self-Esteem
• (00:13:15) - How to Raise an Adult
• (00:20:08) - How to Raise a Child's Confidence
• (00:23:29) - How to Talk to Your Child About Advancing Through Adolescence
• (00:29:43) - On the Importance of Independence for Kids
• (00:30:21) - Ideas for Increasing Children's Independence
• (00:31:56) - Parenting Matters

Description:

Whether you're just trying to get dinner made in peace, or looking for a little more much-needed time for yourself, you won’t want to miss these tools to help your toddler learn to play on their own!

Summary:

In this conversation, Rebecca and Belann discuss the importance of fostering independence in children through play. They emphasize the significance of allowing children to play independently, the emotional resilience it builds, and practical strategies for parents to encourage this behavior. The conversation also addresses the challenges parents face, including guilt and the need for patience, while providing insights on how to handle situations when strategies don't work as intended.

Takeaways:

• Fostering independence in children is crucial for their development.
• Independent play helps children develop emotional resilience.
• Parents often struggle with guilt when children express boredom.
• Repetition is key in teaching children new skills.
• Floor time is an effective strategy for encouraging autonomy.
• It's important for parents to model their own interests and values.
• Children need undivided attention to feel secure and independent.
• Expect challenges when implementing new strategies with children.
• Don't give up when things don't work immediately; persistence is essential.
• Understanding the child's feelings is important, but don't overdo it.

Chapters:

00:00

Fostering Independence in Children

11:38

Understanding the Importance of Independent Play

19:17

Practical Strategies for Encouraging Autonomy

28:21

Handling Challenges When Strategies Don't Work

Check out Early Childhood Matters

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:01:03) - Questions of the Day: Foster Independence in Parents
• (00:02:45) - The Value of Independent Play for Kids
• (00:06:26) - How to wean a child at 18 months
• (00:10:28) - The Guilt of Child's Happiness
• (00:13:22) - Guilt About Child's Boredom
• (00:16:57) - Rebecca Walsh on the Need for Floor Time
• (00:18:53) - On Mom's undivided Time With the Child
• (00:24:32) - The Importance of Independent Play
• (00:25:16) - Read to Kids
• (00:29:02) - Read to Your Child
• (00:32:03) - How to Manipulate a Child's Feelings
• (00:33:15) - Parenting Matters: Fostering Independence

Whether you’re in the thick of sleepless nights or navigating screen time battles, Parenting Matters is here to support you with practical advice and honest conversation.

Listen, share, and join the community - because your parenting matters.

For more info visit earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this episode:

Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen.

Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show

Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters
• (00:00:50) - Parenting Matters: The Very First Podcast
• (00:07:11) - Early Childhood Matters: A Joy of Parenting
• (00:14:07) - Inspiring Scientists: Early Childhood Inspiration
• (00:15:27) - The Joy of Parenting Adolescents
• (00:17:00) - Parenting Matters: From Mothers to Kids