The 6 Worst Parenting Tips We’re Never Taking Again

Jan 12, 2026

In this lively discussion, Justin and Kylie tackle six popular yet harmful parenting tips. They reveal how controlled crying damages attachment and why timeouts erode trust. The duo emphasizes that responsiveness is essential, debunking the myth that it spoils kids. Ignoring tantrums? Not the answer! Empathy is key to helping little ones regulate their emotions. Plus, they challenge the outdated notion of 'seen and not heard,' advocating for children's voices. Co-regulation is the way forward for calming kids, proving parenting doesn't have to rely on hacks!

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INSIGHT

Controlled Crying Harms Attachment

Controlled crying misunderstands attachment and can teach babies they don't matter.
Kylie and Justin warn against using it, especially under six months when research shows harm.

ADVICE

Ditch Timeouts For Connection

Avoid using timeouts as they isolate and prioritize adult control over learning.
Justin recommends replacing timeouts with connection, problem solving, and repair.

INSIGHT

Responsiveness Builds Security

Responsiveness is not a finite resource and doesn't 'spoil' children.
Kylie argues attention builds security and connection, not manipulation.

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Ever been halfway through a parenting reel thinking *“Oh wow, this is gold”… only to realise it’s actually terrible advice dressed up with pretty music and a pastel background? We’ve been there too. In today’s episode, Justin and Kylie unpack six pieces of popular parenting advice they’re choosing to ignore forever—and why you should too. From controlled crying to timeouts, “spoiling” kids with love, and the classic “just ignore the tantrum” strategy, we’re calling out the myths that sound helpful but harm connection. This episode is your permission slip to parent with heart, not hacks.

KEY POINTS:

Controlled crying is not independence training — It misunderstands attachment and ignores babies’ real needs.
Timeouts don’t teach, they isolate — Punishment in disguise erodes trust and connection.
Responsiveness isn’t spoiling — Kids thrive when we tune in, not tune out.
Ignoring tantrums doesn’t make them go away — Empathy teaches emotional regulation.
“Seen and not heard” is still hanging around (and still harmful) — Kids need space to be curious, push back respectfully, and develop their voice.
Self-soothing is a myth for little ones — Kids learn to calm down with us, not alone.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“Abandoning children in their most vulnerable moments teaches them nothing—except that our love is conditional.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Daniel Siegel
Attachment research by Dr. Allan Schore

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

Challenge bad advice — When you hear advice that feels off, trust your gut and check the research.
Choose connection over correction — When your child is distressed, meet them with empathy instead of isolation.
Be responsive, not reactive — Show up consistently so your child learns to regulate through co-regulation.
Make space for their voice — Let your kids respectfully question, push back, and express themselves.
Ditch the naughty chair — Find real discipline strategies that teach, not punish.

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