

Peace and Parenting: How to Parent without Punishments
Michelle Kenney, M. Ed
Are you sick of parenting with the ideas of yelling and shame and looking for something that feels better, is different, but still has a sense of boundaries and limits?Welcome to Peace and Parenting! Michelle is a former teacher, counselor, certified parenting coach, mom of two teens, recovering yeller, and perfectionist who parents without using punishments altogether. And guess what? It works! On this show, you’ll learn the how behind having kids who are entirely UNPUNISHED but who are also successful, kind, loving, and know how to follow directions. Twice a week, Michelle shares her insights and expertise on connective parenting through solo episodes and interviews with experts and other struggling parents. If you have exhausted all other options and don't know what to do next, this could be the parenting strategy you've been searching for.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 17, 2025 • 14min
Electronics and Kids – Finding the Balance Without the Drama
Are electronics truly the enemy of modern parenting, or can they coexist peacefully in our lives? With electronics being an undeniable part of our daily lives, today I explore how we can embrace them without sacrificing the connection with our children.In this episode, I tackle the polarizing debate of kids and electronics. While some believe in strictly limiting access, others might inadvertently allow free rein. But is there a middle ground? I advocate for a balanced approach that recognizes the necessity of electronics while maintaining firm boundaries and continuous dialogue about safe and responsible usage. Join me as I share some insights and strategies to help you manage the digital terrain of parenting without losing sight of the essential element of connection.In This Episode👉 Navigating electronics in a balanced way👉 Impact of electronics on teen social life👉 Building trust against digital world threats👉 Electronics as a parenting tool, not a crutch👉 Importance of connection over strict rules=========📱 Interested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technology🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Apr 15, 2025 • 18min
Case Study: Teaching Kids to Resolve Conflict Themselves
Discover how to navigate the chaos of sibling rivalry without playing referee. The conversation dives into the importance of early intervention and nurturing empathy to help kids manage their own conflicts. Learn why avoiding blame can transform tense moments and how individual attention fosters deeper connections. Plus, some practical tools to empower your children in resolving disputes on their own. Get ready to embrace more peace and understanding in your household!

Apr 10, 2025 • 10min
Stop Doing This and Your Kids Will Actually Get Along
Tired of sibling squabbles? Discover how to transform family dynamics by replacing punishments with connection. The discussion highlights the impact of childhood experiences on current parenting, emphasizing empathy over punitive measures. Learn practical tips for fostering cooperation and trust among siblings. Uncover how connected kids can effectively navigate conflicts and build stronger relationships. Embrace the power of understanding to create a more harmonious home.

Apr 8, 2025 • 21min
Case Study: Finding Alternatives to Yelling
Do you ever feel like your kids only listen when you raise your voice? You're not alone. Many parents struggle with feeling unheard and resorting to yelling, often rooted in feeling disrespected. Today, we're diving into this common challenge with a real parent, Michela, and exploring practical strategies for finding calmer, more effective ways to communicate.This episode isn't about blaming ourselves or our cultural backgrounds. It's about understanding why we get loud and how to shift towards connection and cooperation. We'll discuss the power of staying calm, setting limits with empathy, and using connection to guide our children's behavior. Join us to discover practical tips and a fresh perspective on navigating those challenging parenting moments.In This Episode👉 Identifying the root of yelling👉 Using connection to gain cooperation👉 Setting limits with empathy and kindness👉 Understanding the normalcy of tantrums👉 Offering empathy to your children========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Apr 3, 2025 • 11min
Are You Over-Functioning and Holding Your Child Back?
Are parents doing too much for their kids? What if saying "no" to doing something for your child could actually empower them to thrive independently? Today, we dive into the art of stepping back as a parent and explore the practice of avoiding over-functioning.Today, I delve into the nuanced subject of over-functioning in our parenting journeys. I share my own experience with my daughter Esme, who is learning to navigate the complex world of adulthood. As I recount our recent encounter over her request for help obtaining her driver's license, I reflect on the importance of fostering independence while providing a supportive environment.When we find ourselves taking on tasks that our children could handle independently, it's natural to wonder about the subtle messages we might be conveying. Could our well-intentioned actions inadvertently hinder their growth? This discussion invites us to gently reflect on the potential long-term effects of over-functioning, with the heartfelt hope of nurturing children who emerge as self-sufficient and confident individuals, ready to face life's challenges with resilience.In This Episode👉 Defining over-functioning in parenting roles👉 Encouraging autonomy with empathy and support👉 Unpacking the impact on self-esteem👉 Maria Montessori's lesson on child independence👉 Strategies for nurturing self-reliant kids========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Apr 1, 2025 • 16min
Case Study: I Don’t Know What to Say During Sibling Arguments
Tune in for a deep dive into sibling rivalry! Discover how parents can support their kids through conflicts without stepping in as referees. Lindsey shares her struggles and insights on navigating the chaos of sibling squabbles. Emphasis is placed on trusting parental intuition and using empathy to transform moments of tension into valuable teaching opportunities. Learn about the importance of emotional validation and teaching conflict resolution skills to foster stronger sibling relationships.

Mar 27, 2025 • 12min
Co-Regulation Strategies for Emotional Outbursts
Learning to navigate emotional storms can transform parenting. Discover how co-regulation supports children's emotional growth and resilience. Instead of power struggles, focus on creating a calm space for expression. By modeling self-regulation, parents can teach children to manage their big feelings. Experience how empathy can turn tantrums into connections, fostering stronger relationships. These practical strategies promise a peaceful home without reliance on punishments.

Mar 25, 2025 • 24min
Case Study: Why "Leave Me Alone" Really Means "Help Me"
Ever feel lost in how to respond when your child gets aggressive during tantrums? You're not alone, and it's definitely a tough spot to be in. This week, we're tackling the challenge of aggressive tantrums and how to navigate them with connection, not punishment. Afra joins me today, struggling when her 6-year-old gets physical with her during tantrums. Together, we'll explore why connection is key, even when it feels counterintuitive, and how to keep everyone safe during those intense moments.We dive into understanding the root of aggressive tantrums and why they happen, especially when kids say they want to be left alone. We also discuss how our own experiences can shape our reactions and explore healthier ways to respond. I’ll provide strategies for maintaining safety for both you and your child during these episodes. We'll also cover the importance of modeling self-regulation and the long-term benefits it has for our children.If you're ready to shift your perspective on tantrums and build a stronger connection with your child, this episode offers some compassionate guidance and practical tools. You’re doing great, and there is a better way!In This EpisodeHow to stay present through the tantrumPrioritizing safety for everyoneHow to model self-regulation calmlyDon’t expect immediate apologiesWhy you need to be consistent with your limits========Links Mentioned:🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mar 20, 2025 • 16min
Transform Your Parenting by Ditching the Lectures
Are you tired of feeling like you're always lecturing your kids, but it just doesn't seem to make a difference? Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of reasoning and explaining, only to see the same behaviors repeat? I get it, because I’ve been there too. This week, I’m diving into why those well-intentioned lectures often fall flat and how they can even be perceived as punishment by our children. But don't worry, because I’ll also share some effective strategies for guiding our children towards better behavior, fostering genuine connection and self-correction without relying on lectures.If you're ready to transform your approach to discipline and cultivate a more peaceful and connected relationship with your children, this episode is a must-listen. Trust me, you've got this, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.In This EpisodeRecognizing why lectures may feel like punishmentAvoiding shaming your childWhy we should let kids express themselves fullyFocus on problem-solving togetherHolding space for your child’s feelingsSee mistakes as opportunities to learn========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mar 18, 2025 • 19min
Case Study: How to End Middle-of-the-Night Wake-Ups
Tired of sleepless nights? This engaging discussion dives into the struggles of helping young children sleep independently. It reveals how emotional connection can ease bedtime battles and highlights the importance of setting empathetic limits. Discover effective strategies to tackle nighttime awakenings linked to separation anxiety and create a supportive nighttime routine. Learn why tantrums might even improve sleep and embrace the idea that both your child's emotional needs and your own rest can coexist harmoniously.