Reflective Parenting by Curious Neuron
Cindy Hovington, Ph.D.
Parenting shouldn’t be defined by stress, guilt, and self-doubt. Yet for 94% of parents, that’s what our days feel like. As a neuroscientist and mom of three, I know firsthand how easy it is to end the day overwhelmed, wishing you’d been calmer, more present, or more patient with your child. That’s why I created The Reflective Parenting Podcast—a place where we pause, reflect, and discover a new way forward.Join me every Monday as we explore science-backed skills that replace guilt with confidence and stress with calm so that you, and your child, can thrive. Some weeks, I’ll share my own reflections as a parent who’s still learning, just like you. Other weeks, I’ll bring in experts from psychology, neuroscience, and beyond to dive into the research and uncover practical ways we can make parenting feel lighter, less overwhelming, and more connected.Parents don’t need more advice or another education-heavy podcast. What they truly need is a space to pause, reflect, and grow. Reflective parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about noticing what drives our reactions and choosing to show up with intention. This podcast is about building resilience, trust, and connection, and joining a movement to reimagine what parenting can feel like—for us, and for our kids.Subscribe today not to miss next week's episode! Join the private group on Facebook:www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast/Record your story or question:https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcastJoin the Reflective Parenting Program today!Start our science-backed course, join our weekly calls or get 1:1 support with Cindy below:https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/Follow us on Instagram @curious_neuron or Facebook @curiousneuron
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 10, 2023 • 18min
You are yelling at your child because you are dysregulated...here is how to change this
Send us a textToday, I want you to change your guilt around yelling to compassion for yourself for being dysregulated. Sometimes, we power through our days, weeks, months, and years without addressing our needs. Our brain and nervous system have needs too. If we don't address them, we can't nurture them. What needs does your nervous system have? What causes you to feel "off"? What makes you feel warm and connected inside? As a challenge this week, I would like you to start using the terms regualted or dysreguated. Listen to this episode to learn how to do this. If you want to yell less, recognize what triggers you and learn how to cope with your emotions so that you can model this for your children, join the FREE Wondergrade Emotionally Aware Parent challenge by filling in the form below. You will get a 28-page workbook and the zoom link to join our weekly support group (Monday nights at 8pm ET) where you can chat about events that triggered you and get some advice from me and my business partner Kristi (a nurse). See you there!https://forms.gle/JA4imniLK2fLxh12ASupport the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Apr 3, 2023 • 27min
How to become an emotionally aware parent
Send us a textHello friend! In today's solo episode, I discuss what it means to be an emotionally aware parent. We are having the Emotionally Aware Parent Challenge over at Wondergrade (I am the co-founder of this company). You can sign up with the link below:https://forms.gle/cmASL48RhMsWKW1L6Many parents tell me they easily snap at their kids or often feel their emotions go from 0-100. Working on our emotional awareness helps us recognize aspects of our environment that lead to strong emotions (both positive or negative/uncomforable). I walk you through 2 questions you can ask yourself this week and 4 skills you can work on to become an emotionally aware parent. Here are the resources I mention in today's episode:Podcast episode about our inner voice:https://www.curiousneuron.com/archive/2021/6/21/ep-31-how-parents-can-manage-their-negative-inner-voice-with-ethan-krossPodcast episode about mindfulness and self-compassion:https://www.curiousneuron.com/archive/ep-79-how-can-parents-work-on-self-compassion-and-mindfulness-with-dr-simn-guendelmanPodcast episode: Why Am I yelling at my kids?https://www.curiousneuron.com/archive/ep-104-ask-yourself-why-am-i-yelling-at-my-kidsResearch Publication: The Structure of Emotional Experience and Its Relation to Trait Emotional Awareness: A Theoretical Review:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ryan-Smith-13/publication/321325117_The_Structure_of_Emotional_Experience_and_Its_Relation_to_Trait_Emotional_Awareness_A_Theoretical_Review/links/6234a98ad545b7729402656c/The-Structure-of-Emotional-Experience-and-Its-Relation-to-Trait-Emotional-Awareness-A-Theoretical-Review.pdfSupport the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Mar 27, 2023 • 46min
Why we should alleviate stress around breastfeeding and support all moms
Send us a textIn today’s episode, we are joined by Kishanda Vyboh, MSc and seasoned breastfeeding support parent. We discuss ALL things beautiful and challenging about breastfeeding. We speak about the pressure parents are put under to feed their babies whether it should be by breast milk or formula. This is a judgment-free zone!5:16 - What is a breastfeeding support parent?7:27 - Is there other programs like Nourri-Source out there?8:30 - What is the best way to feed your child and why breastfeeding education is necessary12:30 - Do you have to follow all the rules that the pre-natal classes give you?14:56 - Why did Kishanda make her own FREE pre-natal workshop and who can access it?17:30 - Why are there mood changes during the breast-feeding weaning period21:42 - Why does the World Health Organization suggest breastfeeding exclusively until 6 months, and then continuing until 2 years? Why is Canada not meeting these milestones?25:49 - Should I breastfeed my baby every time they cry?28:03 - If I continue breastfeeding past 2 years, will I ruin my child?30:04 - What should I do if I don’t want my tongue-tied child to have surgery?33:40 - What are some common misconceptions Kishanda has seen throughout her years volunteering?37:30 - What topics are covered in Kishanda’s free course?Resources:Join Kishanda on Instagram: @kishanda_jesseNourri-source: https://nourri-source.org/en/Access the free workshop here: https://linktr.ee/kishandajesse?fbclid=PAAaa0hfIrCKX4gNsta4JHbSHpubhuVxUAXr4GMvJcZQaZCXjWUIycRvzvkWkLa leche league: https://www.lllc.ca/Study from Canadian Journal of Nursing ResearchFind an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in QuebecSupport the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Mar 20, 2023 • 31min
What you should know about screen time in kids younger than 2
Send us a textIn today’s episode, we are joined by Tracie, a speech-language pathologist.What a study found with regard to screen time and a child's cognitive abilities (link below) What is Tracie’s take on Cocomelon and how the characters speak?Why is screen time not recommended before the age of 18 months?What can parents do if their child is already getting screen time under 2?How does language actually develop?You can follow Tracie on Instagram @tracieb.slp Sources to help you make an informed decision for your family: Screen media exposure in the first 2 years of life and preschool cognitive development: a longitudinal study (here)Screen Time and Executive Function in Toddlerhood: A Longitudinal Study (here)Screen time and the development of emotion understanding from age 4 to age 8: A community study (here)Mobile Media Device Use is Associated with Expressive Language Delay in 18-Month-Old Children (here)Theory of Mind and Neurodevelopmental Disorders of Childhood (here)Support the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Mar 13, 2023 • 48min
Chelsea Conaboy & Dr. Jodi Pawluski: How our brain changes when we become parents
Send us a textIn today’s episode, we are joined by Chelsea Conaboy & Dr. Jodi Pawluski. We discuss all things parent brain - if you’re not sure what that is, this episode is for you.Why is it important to talk about the postpartum period and the brain?Is “mommy brain” negative?Does parenting keep you young?Does a father or non-birthing parent’s brain change when their child is born?Is parental leave adequate around the world?What is the “perfect mother myth”Do we really need the village to raise our children?Is it normal to be stressed and depressed as a new parent?What kind of support exists in the US and Canada for mothers and fathers?What is “mom rage”?Is it normal to have intrusive thoughts about how your child will get hurt?What is the definition of the postpartum period?#1 tips for new parents from Chelsea and JodiResources:Chelsea’s book: Mother BrainJodi’s book (en Français): Le Mommy Brain Boot camp for new dads in the USAPostpartum support internationalAfter the Storm: Postnatal Depression and the Utter Weirdness of New Motherhood - Emma Jane UnsworthSupport the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Mar 6, 2023 • 50min
What play looks like when you are traveling around the world with 4 kids
Send us a textIn today’s episode, we are joined by Alanna Gallo, a former educator who sold all her stuff and travels with her 4 kids!3:30 - What did play look like when your children had a home base, compared to when you left to travel?8:00 - If you come back to living in one home would you re-create it the same way?10:23 - What is an open-ended toy? What are the most beneficial toys for independent play? What is a close-ended toy?16:08 - What is a truly educational toy?20:35 - Alanna and Cindy share what they think about the current schooling system30:13 - Why did Alanna start her business? Let’s normalize learning from our mistakes and changing our parenting approach.36:23 - How can parents keep their children occupied while they do daily tasks?43:11 - If you have to take time for yourself, and you feel guilty, try this!Follow Alanna @playlearnthrive on Instagram, Twitter and TikTokFor more information visit her website https://playlearnthrive.com/Support the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Feb 28, 2023 • 28min
Can grandparents ruin how you are parenting your child?
Send us a textHi friends! I received this question from a listener so I thought I would answer it in today's episode. This parent asked, "If my husband and I have been working hard to validate our 13-month-old feelings but our parents do not, will this be harmful to our child's development and emotions?" It is important to validate our child's feelings, however, if certain adults do not validate their emotions, it is not necessarily harmful. I discuss:what validating emotions looked like when we were growing up and what it look like todayhow to have this conversation with grandparentswhether grandparents can undo the workwhat are some red flags with grandparents that can be harmful to your child the role of emotions in mental healthhow to monitor your child when they come back from their grandparent's house Don't forget to review the podcast if you are enjoying it! (and if you are not, feel free to email me to let me know why) Support the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Feb 20, 2023 • 15min
Ask yourself: Why am I yelling at my kids?
Send us a textWe all yell because...we are human. We have moments when we lose our cool and our kids can also have these moments. However, in today's episode, I would like to walk you through a process I did to control my own yelling. If you are yelling more than you would like at your child, listen to today's episode for a few minutes. It will help you start the work. Are you yelling out of frustration? To control? Because of unmet needs? Because you feel triggered?Remember, we are all trying our best to parent our kids. Please don't be hard on yourself if you are struggling. Take moments to connect with yourself and remind yourself that you matter. Take time to connect with your child as well. I know you can do this, and I am honoured that you are listening to this podcast so that I can guide you. I hope you have a lovely week! Support the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Feb 13, 2023 • 50min
Dr. Abigail Gewirtz: Tips to help your worried or anxious child
Send us a textIn today’s episode we are joined by Dr. Abigail Gewirtz child psychologist and author of When the World Feels Like a Scary Place.3:22 - Are being worried and being anxious the same thing? How do you know it’s a problem to bring up with your child’s doctor?6:26 - If I’m an anxious person, how can I teach my child to manage anxiety?9:36 - Should I hide my emotions from my child?13:05 - What is a parenting journal and why is it helpful?15:31 - If you and your partner have different temperaments, how do you deal with each other?17:10 - What’s the difference between a reaction and a response to your child?21:30 - Tips for getting through tough moments (i.e bath time)25:05 - What are cognitive distortions and do I have them? Can I get rid of them?29:54 - How do you navigate your children’s different temperaments?33:04 - How do you deal with your child being scared of common things (i.e the dark)?40:15 - Why can’t I tell my scared child that they’re going to the dentist once we’re already in the car going to the dentist?42:50 - What is re-appraisal and how is it useful to teach your child to deal with failure and big emotions?To learn more about Dr. Abigail’s work visit her website.Support the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
Feb 6, 2023 • 50min
Melinda Wenner Moyer: Raising kind humans
Send us a textIn today’s episode, we are joined by Melinda Wenner Moyer, award-winning science journalist and author of How to raise kids who aren’t assholes.Here’s what we talked about:5:19 - What inspired the book9:31 - Why is your main message “communication is key?”12:32 - How can we raise a kind human?15:48 - How can we foster our child’s emotions if we weren’t raised that way?21:25 - Should all kids be bullied to become resilient?27:16 - What are parenting styles and are they really important?31:36 - What is discipline really?34:14 - How do you teach your kids compassion and empathy: connecting the dots38:40 - If I get called into the principal’s office because my child is a bully, what can I do ?44:18 - How could you talk to your child about racism46:05 - Melinda’s takeawaysWatch this episode on our YouTube Channel:https://youtu.be/YcQMK99i5CQYou can join Melinda on Instagram or Twitter.She releases 2 newsletters a week on Substack.Support the showRecord your question, or share a parenting insight in a 1 min audio we will share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Become a Reflective Parent using our evidence-based program: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube
