Robot Unicorn

In this solo episode, Jess shares her reflections on a recent conversation she had. The conversation was about whether or not children should hear the word “no” and how parents who follow “this new wave of gentle parenting” are no longer the leaders in their homes.In the episode, Jess shares her thoughts on this view and tackles a common misconception about gentle parenting - that it's too permissive and doesn't allow for setting boundaries. She explains the crucial differences between permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative parenting styles, emphasizing that effective discipline combines warmth with firm boundaries.Jess shares her expert knowledge and advice on: Why it's important and loving to say "no" to children How to be a calm leader for kids during challenging moments How setting boundaries helps kids learn to navigate disappointment How setting boundaries teaches kids to question authority appropriatelyWith relatable examples and research-backed information, this episode provides valuable guidance for parents seeking to strike the right balance between empathy and structure.Jess mentions an episode with her friend Josh, and you can listen to that episode here.If you want to learn more about the different parenting styles Jess talks about in the episode, check out this blog post.  You’ll also find the research Jess refers to referenced at the end of the blog.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.Learn more about the Solving Bedtime Battles course here.Credits:Editing by The Pod CabinArtwork by Wallflower StudioProduction by Nurtured First Learn more about The Anger Course here!

In this solo episode, Jess answers a listener's question. She explores how to become curious about and respond to children’s challenging behaviours like hitting. She breaks down four key reasons why children may hit and provides practical strategies for addressing each root cause.In the episode, Jess covers: How to get curious about why your child is hitting (or engaging in other challenging behaviours) Proactive ways to meet children's needs before hitting occurs How to respond to the big feelings that come after you’ve set a boundary around hitting Recognizing that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to hittingPacked with real-life examples and actionable tips, this episode gives parents powerful tools to move beyond basic consequences and truly support their child's growth and development. It is a must-listen for any parent struggling with hitting or other challenging behaviours.In the episode, Jess mentions her Parenting Little Kids course. You can learn more about the course here, and use the code ROBOTUNICORN for 10% off any Nurtured First parenting course or printable toolkit! [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/]We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.Learn more about the Solving Bedtime Battles course here.Credits:Editing by The Pod CabinArtwork by Wallflower StudioProduction by Nurtured First Learn more about The Anger Course here!

In this discussion, Josh, a seasoned landscaper and father, reveals his journey from skepticism to embracing gentle parenting for his highly sensitive son. He challenges traditional discipline methods, sharing insights into emotional regulation and the power of empathy. Listeners will find practical strategies for managing big emotions and bedtime battles, as well as the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Josh's transformation underscores how understanding individual emotional needs can enrich parent-child relationships.

In this important episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into the root cause of challenging behaviours in both children and adults: separation. Jess explains how our core need for closeness drives many of our reactions, from clingy children to angry adults.Jess shares some eye-opening insights on: Why behaviours like clinging, whining, and crying happen Why kids are so angry all the time Why common parenting strategies make behaviour worse How separation emotions manifest as frantic pursuit, anger, and eventually apathy Why "attention-seeking" behaviours are actually attempts to reconnect The importance of allowing children (and ourselves) to feel sadness and shed tears Real-life examples of helping children through separation strugglesListeners will gain a new perspective on behaviours they may have labelled as "defiance" or "acting out" and learn practical strategies for rebuilding closeness and connection.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.Do you have a question you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email to podcast@robotunicorn.net and let us know. We’d love to hear from you!Learn more about the Solving Bedtime Battles course here.Credits:Editing by The Pod CabinArtwork by Wallflower StudioProduction by Nurtured First Learn more about The Anger Course here!

In this insightful episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Tanya Cotler joins Jess and Scott to explore the complexities of intergenerational trauma and cycle-breaking in parenting. Dr. Cotler shares her expertise on how childhood experiences shape our parenting, the importance of curiosity and compassion in understanding our triggers, and practical ways to build self-awareness and cope with parenting challenges.Listeners will gain valuable insights on: How our bodies hold onto past traumas and how they can resurface in parenting The concept of "repair mapping" to reflect on difficult parenting moments Finding a balance between productivity and mindful pauses as a parent Reframing children's challenging behaviours as opportunities for growthThis deep and honest conversation offers both professional wisdom and personal examples to help parents navigate their own healing journeys while raising emotionally healthy children. It is a must-listen for anyone looking to break generational cycles and create more connected relationships with their kids.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.Learn more about the Solving Bedtime Battles course here.Credits:Editing by The Pod CabinArtwork by Wallflower StudioProduction by Nurtured First Learn more about The Anger Course here!

Jess, who feels overwhelmed by visual chaos, contrasts with Scott, who embraces a more relaxed approach to clutter shaped by his upbringing. They dive into how messiness affects parenting, with Jess sharing tips on setting boundaries and managing chaos. The discussion reveals the emotional impact of household disorder and emphasizes the importance of communication between partners. They offer practical strategies for parents to balance cleanliness with creativity, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences with clutter.

In this controversial episode, Jess and Scott dive into the heated debate around sending kids to daycare. They explore the "mommy wars" between stay-at-home and working parents - unpacking the guilt, judgement, and insecurities on both sides.Jess offers a nuanced perspective, explaining how quality childcare providers can be an important part of a family’s "village” and how a strong parent-child attachment can be built whether a child is in childcare or at home.Listeners will gain insights on: How to preserve attachment even when using childcare. The importance of finding caregivers who truly connect with your child. Ways to stay connected and present during the time you do have together.This balanced discussion aims to ease parents' guilt and encourage more compassion, reminding us we're all just trying to do our best for our kids.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.Learn more about the Solving Bedtime Battles course here.Credits:Editing by The Pod CabinArtwork by Wallflower StudioProduction by Nurtured First Learn more about The Anger Course here!

Dive into the world of strong-willed children and discover why their behavior often reflects deep sensitivities and a need for control. Learn how empathy, connection, and understanding can transform defiance into cooperation. Explore practical strategies for managing stubbornness, especially during bedtime routines, and the significance of maintaining consistent yet flexible boundaries. This fresh perspective sheds light on fostering healthy relationships with children, emphasizing proactive parenting over strict discipline.

In this episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into the challenges of infant and toddler sleep and parenting through sleep deprivation. Jess opens up about her struggles as a new mom trying to follow rigid sleep training rules and how she eventually found a more attuned, connection-based approach.In the episode, Jess and Scott discuss: The pitfalls of strictly following sleep training methods without considering your child's unique needs. How postpartum anxiety can fuel obsession over sleep schedules. Mindset shifts that can help parents cope better with nighttime wakings. Why attunement and trusting your parental instincts is so important.Listeners will gain valuable insights on finding a balance between sleep strategies and responding to their child's needs, as well as practical tips for staying calm during those long nights. This raw and honest conversation is a must-listen for any parent struggling with sleep issues.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.Learn more about the Solving Bedtime Battles course here.Credits:Editing by The Pod CabinArtwork by Wallflower StudioProduction by Nurtured First Learn more about The Anger Course here!

Scott and Jess share their journey from high school sweethearts to parents, highlighting how their communication evolved. They discuss the challenge of being defensive and the importance of listening to each other. Anticipating needs and finding the right timing for tough conversations are key themes. The duo emphasizes validation but adds the necessity of curiosity to build trust. Through personal anecdotes, they provide relatable strategies for navigating the complexities of communication in both parenting and romance.