The Child Psych Podcast

Ever wonder why your child holds it together all day at school, only to completely fall apart the moment they get home? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, registered psychologists Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson explore why children often save their biggest emotions for the people they feel safest with. From after-school meltdowns to emotional outbursts over seemingly small things, Tammy and Tania unpack what may be happening beneath the surface and why these behaviours aren't necessarily signs of defiance or poor parenting. In this episode, you'll discover: - Why children fall apart with their parents: How emotional safety, attachment, and the effort of holding it together throughout the day can contribute to meltdowns at home. - The hidden cost of being good all day: Why following rules, managing friendships, and meeting expectations can leave children emotionally exhausted. - Why small things trigger big reactions: Understanding how accumulated stress and unmet needs can overwhelm a child's…

Are we protecting our children—or unintentionally making them more anxious and less confident? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Lenore Skenazy, founder of the Free-Range Kids movement and co-founder of Let Grow, to explore how overprotective parenting may be contributing to childhood anxiety, declining independence, and a lack of resilience in today's children. Lenore challenges us to rethink modern parenting and the culture of fear surrounding childhood. We discuss why giving children age-appropriate freedom, opportunities for healthy risk-taking, and space to solve problems independently is essential for building confidence, emotional resilience, and problem-solving skills. Together, we explore the connection between parental anxiety and childhood anxiety, why children need more independent play and unsupervised experiences, and how parents can move away from helicopter parenting without compromising their children's safety. You'll discover how small changes in parenting can…

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Lythcott-Haims, New York Times bestselling author of How to Raise an Adult, to explore how well-intentioned parenting can sometimes get in the way of the very skills children need to become capable, confident adults. Julie unpacks the rise of the “checklisted childhood,” where success can become defined by grades, activities, achievements, and getting into the “right” school, and explains how this pressure can undermine independence, self-efficacy, and a child’s ability to discover who they really are. We talk about why parents often overhelp out of love and fear, how to know when support becomes overparenting, and why struggle, failure, responsibility, and everyday life skills are so important for healthy development. We also explore how parents can step back without becoming disconnected, support anxious or struggling children without rescuing them, and shift from managing a child’s life to becoming a trusted guide. Julie offers a powerful reminder that the goal of…

Are we raising our children, or are Big Tech, big business, and algorithms quietly doing it for us? In this thought-provoking episode of The Child Psych Podcast, psychologist Tania Johnson sits down with Dr. Susan Linn, psychologist, author, and one of the world's leading voices on creative play and the commercialization of childhood. Drawing from her groundbreaking book Who's Raising the Kids?, Susan explores how technology companies, advertisers, toy manufacturers, and even schools have become powerful influences in children's lives—often shaping their values, relationships, attention, and development in ways parents never intended. Together, Tania and Susan unpack what it means to parent in a world where children's attention has become one of the world's most valuable commodities. They discuss why the conversation isn't about blaming parents or banning technology, but about reclaiming childhood through connection, imaginative play, boredom, and real-world experiences. Susan also shares practical, hopeful…

"Most parents know that play is important. But what if it's not the game that matters most—it's how you show up while you're playing? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, child psychologists Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson pull back the curtain on what therapists know about play that every parent can use at home. Drawing from the principles of child-centred play therapy, they explore how simple shifts in the way you play can strengthen attachment, build emotional safety, and help your child feel deeply seen and understood. You'll learn why following your child's lead is more powerful than directing the activity, how presence and attunement create the foundation for emotional regulation, and why children often communicate their inner world through play long before they have the words to explain it. Whether you have five minutes before bedtime or an afternoon at the park, these practical techniques will help you create moments of connection that support your child's emotional development for years to…

Love Over Algorithms: Raising Kids Who Choose Connection Over Screens with Nikki Martyn Screens aren't just competing for our children's attention—they're competing for their relationships. And while many parents focus on limiting screen time, what if the real solution isn't found in stronger rules, but in stronger connections? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, psychologist Tania Johnson sits down with parenting educator and author Nikki Martin to discuss her new book, Love Over Algorithms. Together, they explore how today's digital world is shaping our children, why technology struggles are often relationship struggles, and how parents can create homes where connection is more compelling than the endless pull of the algorithm. Nikki introduces practical, research-informed tools that help families move beyond constant battles over devices. From the Love Loop and the L.O.V.E. Method to the power of the Pause Moment, she shares simple strategies that foster emotional safety, trust, and healthy…

Feeding children can bring up so much pressure. Are they eating enough? Are they getting the right nutrients? Should we limit sugar? What do we do when they refuse everything on their plate? In this episode, Tania is joined by Jennifer Anderson, registered dietitian, founder of Kids Eat in Color, and author of the new book, Feed Them Well: A Guide to Raising Healthy, Confident Eaters for Life. Jennifer takes us deep into the research on how children learn to eat and what happens when parents restrict certain foods, pressure kids to eat, or try to tightly control what and how much they consume. She explores the difference between restrictive feeding practices and helping children learn to listen to their own hunger and fullness cues, and why our best intentions around nutrition can sometimes have unexpected consequences. They also dig into picky eating, sugar, treats, highly processed foods, food rules, body image, and the enormous amount of pressure parents feel to “get feeding right.” How much control…

If every request turns into a battle, mornings feel like a marathon, and you're constantly walking the line between staying calm and completely losing your patience, you're not alone. In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, psychologist Tania Johnson sits down with parenting educator Kirk Martin, founder of CelebrateCalm, to explore why some children seem to push every button—and what parents can do instead of yelling, threatening, or repeating themselves for the tenth time. Kirk shares practical, down-to-earth strategies for parenting strong-willed, highly sensitive, and emotionally intense children. Together, he and Tania discuss why traditional discipline often backfires, how parents can become the calm anchor their children need, and simple ways to reduce daily power struggles while building trust and cooperation. Rather than trying to control children's behaviour, this conversation focuses on understanding what's driving it and responding in ways that help children develop emotional regulation,…

When the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan Shapiro was simply looking for something meaningful to do with his son. What began as an after-school chess club quickly turned into an unexpected journey that challenged everything he thought he knew about intelligence, learning, and what it really means to help a child thrive. In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, psychologist Tania Johnson sits down with Dan, author of Decoding Genius: The Unexpected Lessons of After-School Chess Club, to explore the remarkable lessons hidden within one of the world's oldest games. Driven by his son's growing passion for chess, Dan immersed himself in the fascinating history and science of the game, uncovering stories of blindfold chess masters, child prodigies, remarkable feats of memory, and the surprising reasons cultures around the world have long viewed chess as a powerful tool for developing the mind. But this conversation isn't really about raising chess champions. It's about raising children who can…

Your teenager barely leaves their room. They're gaming for hours, avoiding school, pushing every button, and every conversation ends in an argument. You've tried consequences. You've tried backing off. You've tried talking, therapy, and taking devices away. Yet nothing seems to change. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, psychologist Tania Johnson sits down with family therapist Dr. Scott Sells, author of Parenting Your Out-of-Control Teenager, to discuss what parents can do when they feel like they've lost both their authority and their connection with their teen. Rather than focusing on quick fixes, Dr. Sells explains why so many families become trapped in cycles of conflict and power struggles. Together, they explore how anxiety, gaming, depression, trauma, entitlement, and family dynamics often become intertwined, making it difficult for parents to know where to begin. Most importantly, Dr. Sells offers practical strategies that help parents step out of…

For years, parents have been told to talk to their children about their feelings. But what if talking isn't always what children need most? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, child psychologists Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson challenge one of today's most common parenting messages. While emotional literacy is incredibly important, there are moments when constantly asking children how they feel can unintentionally keep them stuck in their emotions instead of helping them move through them. Tammy and Tania explore the difference between acknowledging feelings and over-focusing on them. They discuss why children need more than conversations—they need co-regulation, play, movement, connection, and opportunities to experience competence. You'll learn when to lean into emotional conversations, when to simply be present, and how to help children build resilience without making every difficult moment the center of attention. If you've ever wondered, "Am I talking about feelings too much?" this episode…

In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, Tammy sits down with Dr. Daniel Amen, physician, double board-certified psychiatrist, founder of Amen Clinics, and author of *Raising Mentally Strong Kids", for a powerful conversation about children’s brain health. Dr. Amen explains why we need to shift the way we talk about “mental health” and begin thinking more deeply about brain health. He shares how children’s brains are shaped by everyday choices — including nutrition, sleep, movement, screens, stress, connection, substances, and the environments they grow up in. Together, Tammy and Dr. Amen explore how parents can teach children to love and care for their brains, rather than simply nagging them about what not to do. They discuss practical ways to support children with ADHD, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and low resilience by looking at the brain and body as deeply connected systems. In this episode, we discuss: ▪️ Why “mental health” is really brain health ▪️ How brain health impacts anxiety, ADHD,…

Why are so many autistic women missed in childhood? And what happens when a parent's journey to understand their child leads to a life-changing discovery about themselves? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we welcome Julie M. Green, author of Motherness: A Memoir of Generational Autism, Parenthood, and Radical Acceptance. Julie shares her powerful story of parenting an autistic child, navigating a late autism diagnosis, and finally making sense of a lifetime of experiences that had never quite fit together. For many women, autism goes undiagnosed for decades. Traits are often misunderstood, hidden through masking, or mistaken for anxiety, perfectionism, sensitivity, or social difficulties. Julie's journey sheds light on the unique presentation of autism in women and girls, while offering hope for those seeking answers later in life. In this conversation, we explore: ▪️ Autism in women and why so many girls are missed ▪️ Late autism diagnosis and its emotional impact ▪️ Parenting an autistic child…

Are well-meaning parenting phrases doing more harm than good? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, child psychologists Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson unpack five common phrases many parents use every day—phrases like "Good job!" and "Be careful!"—and explore how they may unintentionally shape children's confidence, resilience, independence, and self-belief. While these phrases often come from a place of love and protection, research in child development suggests that the words we use matter. The goal isn't to make parents feel guilty—it's to become more intentional about the messages children receive about themselves, their abilities, and the world around them. Tammy and Tania discuss practical alternatives that encourage intrinsic motivation, problem-solving, emotional regulation, confidence, and healthy risk-taking. They explain why small shifts in language can have a powerful impact on children's long-term development and self-esteem. In this episode, you'll learn: ▪️ Why "Good job!" may not be…

Boys are struggling — academically, emotionally, socially, and developmentally. But what do boys actually need to grow into healthy, grounded, responsible young men? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, Tammy sits down with Dr. Alan Hahn doctoral-level educator, founder of Iron Academy, and author of The Iron Academy, to explore the modern crisis facing boys and young men. Together, they discuss why so many boys are struggling in school, mental health, motivation, identity, and purpose — and what parents, educators, and communities can do to help. Dr. Hahn shares why boys need more than lectures or discipline. They need joy, community, accountability, identity, responsibility, and meaningful rites of passage. This conversation explores how we can help boys move from simply consuming to contributing — and why young men need trusted adults who will guide them with both love and high expectations. In this episode, we discuss: ▪️ Why boys are struggling in today’s culture ▪️ How schools may be failing to…

Why does your child fall apart over “nothing”—the wrong socks, a transition, a loud sound, or being asked to leave the house? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, Tammy sits down with pediatric occupational therapist Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco to unpack what may really be happening beneath those big reactions. Kathryn explains how children’s nervous systems are constantly scanning for cues of safety or danger, and why something as small as uncomfortable clothing, a rushed morning, or too much sensory input can become the “last straw.” Together, Tammy and Kathryn explore sensory processing, fight-or-flight responses, co-regulation, and how parents can become a calming cue of safety for their child. This conversation helps parents shift from asking, “Is my child being difficult?” to “What is my child’s nervous system trying to tell me?” You’ll learn how to spot patterns, respond in the moment, and support children who may experience the world as too much, not enough, or simply hard to process. In this…

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of infant loss, grief, and NICU trauma. Some stories change us forever. In this deeply moving episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Emily Souder, LCSW-C, PMH-C, and Mahaley Patel, LMFT, PMH-C, therapists, mothers, and co-authors of Your NICU Story: Reflecting on Your Family's Experience. What begins as a conversation about the NICU quickly becomes something much deeper.Mahaley courageously shares the story of her daughter, Saachi, and the unimaginable journey of becoming a mother while simultaneously facing the possibility of losing her child. She opens up about the hope, fear, heartbreak, and profound grief of leaving the hospital without her baby in her arms, and how that experience forever changed her life, her family, and her work. Together, Emily and Mahaley explore the emotional realities many NICU parents carry long after the monitors are turned off and the hospital stay is over. We discuss trauma, attachment, grief, resilience, and the…

Is gentle parenting creating calmer, more connected families—or are some parents accidentally raising children who struggle with frustration, responsibility, and resilience? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, child psychologists Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson take an honest look at one of the most talked-about parenting approaches today: gentle parenting. While the principles of connection, empathy, and emotional validation are powerful tools for raising emotionally healthy children, problems can arise when gentle parenting is misunderstood or applied without clear boundaries and expectations. Across social media, many parents are receiving conflicting messages about discipline, consequences, emotional regulation, and behavior management. As a result, some families find themselves stuck in cycles of negotiation, power struggles, emotional exhaustion, and increasing child anxiety. In this conversation, Tammy and Tania explore the difference between true gentle parenting and permissive parenting,…

How do you prepare an autistic daughter for puberty, body changes, periods, privacy, and personal safety? In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, psychologist Dr. Natasha Poulopoulos shares practical guidance for navigating some of the most important conversations parents will have with their autistic daughters. We discuss why these conversations should begin earlier than many parents realize and how to approach sensitive topics in a way that feels safe, supportive, and manageable. If you've ever wondered how to help your daughter understand her changing body while building confidence, self-advocacy, and healthy boundaries, this episode offers valuable insights—and a helpful introduction to Dr. Poulopoulos' work supporting autistic girls and their families. Ready to dive deeper? Dr. Poulopoulos' comprehensive workshop, Autistic Girls, Puberty & Sexuality, provides practical tools, strategies, and guidance for supporting autistic girls through these important developmental years. For families raising…

In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Kim Van Dusen, psychologist, parenting expert, and author of Parenting Through Play: Creative Strategies for Building Better Behavior, Deeper Connection, and Positive Communication. Together, we explore the powerful role of play in child development and why play is one of the most effective tools parents can use to strengthen connection, improve behavior, and support emotional regulation. Dr. Kim explains how play-based parenting strategies can help reduce power struggles, increase cooperation, and build stronger parent-child relationships without relying on punishment, yelling, threats, or rewards. We discuss how children communicate through play, why playful parenting often works better than lectures, and how parents can use simple, everyday moments to foster emotional connection and positive behavior. Whether you're parenting a toddler, preschooler, school-aged child, or tween, this conversation offers practical tools to support emotional…

Screens aren't just hard for kids to put down because they enjoy them. As Michaeleen Doucleff explains in Dopamine Kids, screens can become powerful "dopamine magnets," pulling children back again and again, often without leaving them feeling calmer, happier, or more fulfilled afterward. In Part 2 of this important conversation on The Child Psych Podcast, Tammy Schamuhn and Michaeleen Doucleff move from understanding the science of dopamine and screen time to exploring practical solutions parents can use at home. Discover evidence-informed strategies to help children reduce screen dependence without constant power struggles. Learn how to create screen-free spaces that support healthy sleep, improved attention, meaningful family connection, and everyday adventure. Michaeleen shares why simply removing screens is rarely enough and how parents can help children reconnect with activities that naturally support emotional well-being. This episode explores how outdoor play, creativity, movement, boredom,…

In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Tammy Schamuhn sits down with Michaeleen Doucleff, author of Dopamine Kids, to explore what is really happening in children’s brains when they beg for more screen time, melt down when devices are taken away, or seem unable to pull themselves away from video games, social media, YouTube, or ultra-processed foods. Many parents have been taught that dopamine is simply the brain’s “pleasure chemical.” But Doucleff explains that dopamine is more accurately understood as part of the brain’s motivation and seeking system — the internal drive that says: keep going, get more, don’t stop yet. This shift in understanding changes everything. When children become explosive after screen time ends, their brains may not be responding to joy or satisfaction. Instead, they may be caught in a cycle of constant wanting. Screens and ultra-processed foods can act as powerful “dopamine magnets,” pulling children toward repeated stimulation while leaving them feeling more dysregulated,…

Why Anxiety, Meltdowns, Sleep Problems, and Emotional Dysregulation May Have More to Do With Modern Childhood Than We Think Children today are more anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, and emotionally exhausted than ever before. But what if one of the biggest threats to their mental health isn’t something happening online… It’s what’s missing offline? In this incredibly powerful and emotional episode of the Child Psych Podcast, Dr. John La Puma joins us to unpack what he calls The Indoor Epidemic — the silent shift away from sunlight, outdoor play, movement, nature, boredom, independence, and real-world connection that is fundamentally changing childhood. This conversation will likely make you see parenting — and modern life — differently. We explore why children’s nervous systems are struggling, why so many kids seem emotionally dysregulated and chronically stressed, and how today’s indoor, screen-filled lifestyle may be contributing to rising rates of anxiety, attention difficulties, sleep problems, sensory…

In this insightful and practical conversation, we sit down with Katie Kimball, founder of Kids Cook Real Food and author of Kids Cook Real Food: Healthy Kids, Happy Moms, to explore the real story behind picky eating. If mealtimes in your home feel like a constant battle, this episode offers a refreshing and evidence-informed perspective. Katie challenges the common belief that picky eating is simply about stubbornness or defiance, and instead helps parents understand the developmental, sensory, and relational factors that shape how children engage with food. We talk about why pressure, bribing, and “just one more bite” often backfire, and what actually helps children build confidence and curiosity around food. Katie shares simple, practical strategies that support autonomy, reduce stress at the table, and create a more positive mealtime experience for the whole family. This episode is especially helpful for parents who feel stuck, frustrated, or worried about their child’s eating habits, and are looking for…

In this deeply honest and powerful conversation, we sit down with Harry Psaros, author of From Struggle to Strength: A Father’s Journey with Autism, to explore a perspective that is often missing in conversations around autism, the father’s experience. Harry shares his personal journey from denial to acceptance after his son’s autism diagnosis, opening up about the confusion, resistance, and emotional struggle many parents quietly face. Like many fathers, he initially found it difficult to fully embrace the diagnosis, a reality he now speaks openly about to help other families feel less alone. Through vulnerability and reflection, Harry offers insight into what helped him shift his mindset, strengthen his role as a parent, and become a more connected and supportive father. His story is not about perfection or quick fixes, but about growth, resilience, and the power of showing up, even when it is hard. This episode is especially meaningful for parents navigating a new diagnosis, families experiencing…

When your child is melting down, shutting down, or completely overwhelmed… it can feel like nothing works. In this powerful, brain-based conversation, best-selling author Jon Fogel reveals what’s really happening beneath your child’s big emotions—and why those intense feelings so quickly turn into explosive behaviors. But more importantly, he shows you what to do in the moment. Drawing from his work with families and the tools behind his upcoming children’s book Set My Feelings Free, Jon explains why talking often fails when kids are dysregulated—and why play, movement, music, and sensory tools can calm a child’s nervous system in seconds. You’ll walk away with simple, powerful strategies your child can actually use when it matters most—because the best tools aren’t the ones that sound good… they’re the ones that work in real life. What You’ll Learn: ✅ What’s really happening in your child’s brain during meltdowns ✅ Why logic and reasoning don’t work when emotions take over ✅ Fast, play-based tools that help…

Challenging behavior isn’t a motivation problem, it’s a skills and problem-solving problem. In this powerful masterclass, Dr. Ross Greene (clinical psychologist, author, and founder of the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions model) and Tammy Schamuhn (child psychologist and co-founder of the Institute of Child Psychology) unpack a compassionate, research-informed shift that has transformed homes and schools: kids do well if they can. Instead of relying on sticker charts, punishments, power struggles, or “compliance-first” discipline, Dr. Greene helps adults learn to see behavior as communication: a child is showing us they’re having difficulty meeting an expectation, and there’s an unsolved problem underneath that needs our attention. What You’ll Learn: ✅ Why consequences (rewards and punishments) don’t solve the problems that cause challenging behavior ✅ How to shift from “They won’t” to “They can’t yet,” by identifying lagging skills and unmet expectations ✅ The 3-step CPS/Plan B process for collaborative…

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, we sit down with attachment therapist and author Eli Harwood to explore the heart of her new book, How to Deal With Your $%$! So Your Kids Don’t Have To: An Encyclopedia for Ditching Your Emotional Baggage—releasing April 14. At the core of this conversation is a simple but profound truth: your kids can feel what you don’t heal. Together, we unpack how unprocessed anger, experiences of rejection, and lingering shame can quietly shape the way we show up as parents. These patterns often surface in our hardest moments—during conflict, disconnection, or discipline—and can unintentionally be passed on to the very children we’re trying to support. Eli offers practical, no-nonsense guidance to help parents recognize their emotional triggers, work through their own internal experiences, and respond with greater intention and connection. This is not about perfection—it’s about awareness, repair, and doing the kind of work that changes family patterns over time. In this…

How do we raise children who not only feel a deep sense of belonging — but actively create it for others? In this powerful and deeply important episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Gaiathry Jeyarajan — clinical psychologist, educator, advocate, and author of Ella’s Choice — to explore what it truly means to raise inclusive, compassionate, and socially aware children in today’s world. Grounded in developmental science, attachment, and real-life parenting, this conversation unpacks how belonging begins in the earliest relationships — through emotional safety, secure attachment, and children feeling genuinely seen, heard, and valued at home. From there, we explore how children develop empathy, identity, moral courage, and the confidence to speak up when something feels unfair. Dr. Jeyarajan explains why children are naturally curious rather than judgmental, how bias is learned through environment and silence, and why avoiding conversations about race and difference can unintentionally leave…

In this insightful and deeply validating episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Mike Goldstein — education leader and co-author of I’ll Do It Later: Surviving School (and Renewing the Love) with Your ADHD Son. Together, we unpack a refreshing and realistic perspective on ADHD — one that moves beyond blame, labels, and quick-fix parenting strategies. Through powerful real-life stories and case studies of boys navigating school, motivation, homework, and everyday life, Mike challenges one of the biggest misconceptions about ADHD: that children simply “aren’t trying hard enough.” Instead, this conversation reveals a much deeper truth. Many children with ADHD genuinely want to succeed, want to please the adults around them, and want to follow through — but struggle with executive functioning skills like task initiation, organization, sustained attention, planning, and follow-through, especially outside highly structured environments like school. We explore why so many traditional parenting and…

We’re airing a re-run today of one of our most popular podcast episodes with Dr. Laura Markham. Most parents think that if our child would just "behave," we could maintain our composure as parents. The truth is that managing our own emotions and actions is what allows us to feel peaceful as parents. Ultimately we can’t control our children or the hand life deals them—but we can always control our own actions. Parenting isn’t about what our child does, but about how we respond." In this podcast we interview one of our FAVOURITE parenting experts Dr. Laura Markham, Clinical Psychologist, best-selling author of the book "Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids" and "Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings" and founder of AHA!Parenting where we talk about how to keep our cool as parents! Want more of Dr. Markham?! Use code ICPSAVE30 to TAKE 30% OFF her courses: Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings: https://instituteofchildpsychology.com/product/peaceful-parent-happy-siblings-how-to-stop-the-fighting-raise-friends-for-life/ How to…

Childhood anxiety is more common than many parents realize — and it often shows up in ways that leave families feeling confused, overwhelmed, and unsure how to help. In this compassionate and practical episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we explore how worries take shape in a child’s mind, why anxiety can feel so overwhelming in the body, and what parents can do to help children build confidence, resilience, and bravery in the face of fear. Inspired by the ideas behind Shrink Your Worries, this conversation focuses on practical, child-friendly strategies that help children understand anxious thoughts, calm their nervous systems, and slowly face the situations that feel scary instead of avoiding them. Together, we unpack one of the most important truths about anxiety: the goal is not to eliminate fear completely, but to help children learn they are capable of moving through fear with support, courage, and connection. We discuss why anxious thoughts often grow bigger when children avoid difficult situations,…

In this special sneak peek from the upcoming ICP Summit 2026, we are joined by Dr. Robert Melillo — renowned clinician, researcher, author of Disconnected Kids, and creator of the Brain Balance Program. This fascinating and thought-provoking conversation explores a question many parents ask themselves every day: Why is my child struggling so much despite trying so hard? Drawing from decades of research and clinical work, Dr. Melillo explains how subtle imbalances in brain development may contribute to challenges such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, OCD, learning difficulties, emotional dysregulation, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral struggles. Together, we unpack the concept of functional disconnection syndrome — differences in communication between regions of the brain, particularly between the hemispheres — and how these imbalances can impact attention, emotional regulation, learning, coordination, behavior, and social functioning. Most importantly, this episode offers hope. Dr. Melillo explains the…

Today’s episode is a special sneak peek from one of the powerful masterclasses featured in the upcoming ICP Summit 2026 — and if your child has a smartphone, gaming console, or social media account, this is a conversation you cannot afford to miss. In this urgent and eye-opening episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we sit down with Constable Scott Sterling and Constable Stephanie Bosch from the Internet Child Exploitation Unit to talk about what is really happening behind children’s screens today. Together, we unpack the growing realities families are facing online — including sextortion, online grooming, explicit image sharing, gaming-based exploitation, and the emotional devastation many children experience when private images are spread or threats begin. But this conversation is not about panic or fear. It is about prevention, awareness, and giving parents the knowledge they need before a crisis happens. Scott and Stephanie explain how offenders build trust with children through games, social media apps,…

n this deeply emotional and validating episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Rebecca Geshuri — licensed marriage and family therapist, IFS-informed clinician, perinatal mental health specialist, and co-author of When Good Moms Feel Bad. This conversation speaks directly to the mothers carrying invisible guilt, shame, rage, anxiety, exhaustion, and the quiet fear that they are somehow failing their children despite loving them deeply. Rebecca helps us understand a profound truth: the mothers who care the most often struggle the most. Together, we explore how Internal Family Systems (IFS) offers a compassionate and transformative framework for understanding motherhood—not through blame or pathology, but through the lens of nervous systems, emotional overwhelm, and protective “parts” that emerge during stress. Rebecca explains the difference between our “Good Mom” parts and “Bad Mom” parts, why maternal rage is often rooted in unmet needs and overload, and how shame keeps so many mothers suffering…

In this episode, we sit down with Elle Wilks, confidence advocate and co-founder of Fearless Girls Club, to explore a pattern many parents notice but don’t always understand: why girls’ confidence so often drops around age 10. This is the age when many girls shift from carefree self-expression to self-consciousness. Peer approval, appearance, performance, and social comparison begin to carry more weight. What once felt easy — speaking up, trying new things, being silly, taking risks — can suddenly feel loaded with fear of getting it wrong. Elle shares what is happening developmentally, socially, and emotionally during this stage, and how subtle messages about being “good,” “nice,” and “liked” can slowly disconnect girls from their authentic voice. We talk about the growing influence of friendships, perfectionism, school pressure, and the early impact of social media culture — even before many girls are officially online. Drawing from her work with girls and families through Fearless Girls Club, an…

In this episode, Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson tackle one of the most painful moments in parenting: when your child looks at you and says, “I hate you.” Those words can sting, shock, and even shake your confidence as a parent. But Tammy and Tania explain why this moment is far less about hatred — and far more about big feelings, overwhelmed nervous systems, and developing brains that don’t yet have the skills to say what they truly mean. You’ll learn what’s actually happening beneath those words, why kids often say this to the people they feel safest with, and how your response in that moment can either escalate the situation or help your child return to regulation. In this conversation, we cover: • why “I hate you” is often a sign of emotional overload, not disrespect • how brain development limits kids’ ability to express complex feelings • what not to say in the moment • how to stay calm when you feel hurt or triggered 👀 Something Big Is Coming for Parents… We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust…

In this powerful and reassuring episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Devon Kuntzman — parenting educator, early childhood specialist, and author of Transforming Toddlerhood. If you’ve ever felt exhausted by tantrums, constant power struggles, hitting, biting, screaming, or endless “no’s,” this conversation will completely shift how you see toddler behavior. Devon helps parents understand one of the most important truths about early childhood: toddlers are not trying to manipulate, embarrass, or control us. Their behavior is communication rooted in an immature nervous system, developing brain, overwhelming emotions, and an intense need for connection and safety. Together, we unpack why traditional discipline approaches like punishment, threats, shame, and time-outs often backfire during the toddler years—and what children are actually learning when fear and control are used. Devon explains what’s happening inside a toddler’s brain during meltdowns, why emotional regulation and impulse control…

In this deeply heartfelt episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Princess Noor of Jordan — author, mother, and passionate advocate for emotionally healthy childhoods. Together, we explore something many parents overlook: how stories can become powerful emotional tools for children struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, big feelings, and self-expression. Drawing from her beautiful children’s books Sometimes, Pandy’s Book of Thanks, and Whisper’s Journey, Princess Noor shares how storytelling can help children feel safe enough to name emotions, process difficult experiences, and build deeper self-worth, compassion, and emotional resilience. This conversation is filled with gentle wisdom for parents raising sensitive children in an overwhelming world. We talk about mindfulness, gratitude, emotional awareness, and the quiet moments of connection that often matter most. Princess Noor also shares how motherhood shaped her writing, how her Jordanian heritage influences the messages within her stories, and…

In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, we’re joined by Alyssa Blask Campbell—educator, emotional-development expert, and author of the bestselling book Tiny Humans, Big Emotions. Alyssa invites us into the heart of her groundbreaking framework, the Collaborative Emotion Processing (CEP) method—a research-based approach designed to help parents and educators respond to children’s emotions with intention rather than reactivity. Through this rich conversation, Alyssa explains what it truly means to process emotions collaboratively, starting with the adult’s ability to regulate their own nervous system. She shares how the CEP method reframes emotional moments not as crises to fix, but as opportunities for connection and co-regulation. Together, we explore how this framework helps both parents and teachers move beyond behaviour management and into deeper relational understanding—where curiosity, empathy, and attunement replace power struggles and frustration. Alyssa’s insights offer a refreshing reminder…

Whining can feel like nails on a chalkboard, especially when everyone is tired, stretched thin, or heading into (or out of) the holiday season. In this episode, Tania and Tammy unpack why kids whine, what’s happening beneath the behaviour, and how parents can respond in ways that reduce escalation and build connection. With their signature blend of warmth, humour, and clinical insight, they explore the real reasons kids slip into that grating tone, how stress and dysregulation fuel it, and why some children are more prone to whining than others. You’ll walk away with simple, compassionate strategies you can use right away to support emotional regulation, set clear boundaries, and guide your child back to calm. If whining has ever pushed your buttons (we’ve all been there!), this episode is for you. 👀 Something Big Is Coming for Parents… We’re launching The Parent Coach — and trust us, you’re going to want this in your back pocket. More details soon! The 2026 ICP Parenting Summit is coming! Join us March…

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the digital world our children grow up in, creating opportunities for learning and connection—but also ushering in complex new challenges for safety, attention, identity, and mental health. In this timely episode, we sit down with Dr. Scott Kollins, Chief Medical Officer at Aura and a nationally recognized expert in ADHD, digital health, and youth mental wellness. Together, we explore how AI-driven platforms represent a significant evolution from earlier forms of digital media. Dr. Kollins explains how algorithmic personalization, generative content, and immersive engagement tools influence children’s attention patterns, behavior, and even neurological development. He highlights emerging concerns surrounding AI-generated characters and influencers designed to mimic friendship and connection—raising important considerations for social development, empathy, and identity formation in childhood. The conversation also delves into the growing difficulty children face in…

If you’re feeling unsure about how to manage screen time, social media, and digital life in your home, you’re not alone. Many parents are trying to balance technology with raising children who are emotionally grounded, connected, and responsible in an increasingly digital world. In this insightful episode, Tania Johnson sits down with Jessica Joelle Alexander to explore what Denmark — often ranked among the happiest countries in the world — can teach us about raising healthy, resilient kids in a screen-filled age. Together, they discuss how Danish families approach technology with balance, trust, and strong community values. Instead of focusing only on restriction, they emphasize digital citizenship — helping children develop the skills to navigate online spaces with empathy, responsibility, and critical thinking. Jessica shares practical ways parents can support their children’s digital lives, including the use of Digital Citizen Cards, a tool designed to guide thoughtful, values-based conversations about…

The holidays can be magical… and messy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or carrying the pressure to make everything “perfect,” you’re not alone. For many parents, this season brings a mix of joy, stress, and emotional overload. In this episode, Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson, registered psychologists and co-founders of the Institute of Child Psychology, talk honestly about the emotional roller coaster families often experience during the holidays. From financial pressure and overstimulation to complex family dynamics, grief, and the weight of expectations, they explore why this time of year can feel so intense — for both parents and children. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how stress impacts emotional regulation, behavior, and connection during busy seasons. Together, they share practical, compassionate strategies to help you manage holiday stress, set realistic expectations, support sensitive children, and create meaningful moments of connection that matter more than perfection. What…

If your teen is struggling with anxiety, low mood, sleep issues, or constant screen use, you’re not alone. Many parents are noticing that something feels different in this generation — more stress, more disconnection, and more challenges with both mental and physical health. In this powerful episode, Tania Johnson sits down with the inspiring young authors of Teen Health Revolution: Unlocking Lifestyle Secrets for the Mind, Body, and Soul — all under 18 — to explore how small, daily habits can have a powerful impact on teen mental health and overall well-being. Together, they discuss the connection between gut health and mental health, along with the roles of nutrition, sleep, stress, and screen time in shaping how teens feel day to day. You’ll hear how lifestyle choices — from movement and mindfulness to gratitude and time in nature — can support emotional regulation, resilience, and long-term health. This conversation offers a refreshing and hopeful perspective: teens are not just struggling — they are…

If your child struggles with downtime, melts down when there’s “nothing to do,” or seems unable to handle boredom the way other kids can, you’re not alone. For many neurodivergent children, boredom doesn’t feel calm or creative — it can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, and even distressing. In this insightful episode, Tania Johnson sits down with Bea Moise to explore why boredom impacts autistic and ADHD brains differently — and what children actually need in those moments. Together, they unpack how novelty, structure, and movement support emotional regulation, attention, and focus. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how sensory differences and executive functioning challenges can make unstructured time especially difficult for neurodivergent kids. Bea shares compassionate, practical strategies to help parents support their child without escalating frustration — offering ways to balance stimulation with rest, encourage creativity without chaos, and create environments where different kinds of brains can…

Some children feel everything — the moods in a room, the pain of others, even the tension adults think they’re hiding. For parents, this can feel both beautiful and overwhelming, especially when your child struggles with big emotions, anxiety, or emotional overload. In this heartfelt episode, Tania Johnson sits down with Dr. Judith Orloff, psychiatrist and author of The Empath’s Survival Guide, to explore what it means to raise and support a highly sensitive or empathic child. Together, they unpack how empathy and intuition show up in children, how to tell the difference between emotional sensitivity and anxiety, and why highly sensitive kids are more prone to overwhelm, fatigue, and emotional contagion. Dr. Orloff shares practical grounding and protection strategies that help children stay open-hearted while also learning how to regulate their emotions and create healthy boundaries. What You’ll Learn: • Signs your child may be highly sensitive or empathic • The difference between emotional sensitivity and…

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is my child ready to stay home alone?” you’re not alone. This decision can bring up a mix of worry, uncertainty, and pressure to get it just right. In this episode, Tammy Schamuhn and Tania Johnson unpack one of the most common parenting questions: when is a child truly ready to stay home alone? Together, they explore the developmental skills children need before taking this step — including emotional regulation, problem-solving, impulse control, and knowing what to do in an emergency. Because readiness isn’t just about age — it’s about confidence, safety, and the ability to handle unexpected situations. They also walk through age guidelines, legal considerations, and important red flags that may signal a child is not quite ready. Most importantly, they share practical, step-by-step ways families can gradually build independence and confidence over time. What You’ll Learn: • What age kids can stay home alone (and why age isn’t the only factor) • The key developmental skills children…

Talking to kids about sex doesn’t have to be awkward — it can be one of the most empowering, protective, and connecting conversations you have as a parent. In this episode, Tammy sits down with Amy Lang to explore how we can raise children and teens who are informed, confident, and safe as they navigate their growing bodies, relationships, and identities. Together, they unpack the how and when of these essential conversations — from the toddler years through the teen years — and share practical, age-appropriate language parents can start using right away. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why knowledge builds safety and confidence — and how preparing kids for healthy relationships is more effective than trying to prevent behavior • What to teach at each age and stage — including body boundaries for preschoolers, consent for school-aged children, and porn literacy for tweens and teens • How to start (and keep) the conversation going — using real terms like vulva, penis, and clitoris to normalize bodies and…

If you’ve ever worried that you’ve missed a critical window to support your autistic child, you’re not alone. Many parents are told that early intervention must happen before a certain age — leaving them feeling anxious, pressured, or even discouraged. In this powerful episode, Tania Johnson sits down with Jonathan Alderson to challenge two of the most persistent myths in autism: the “five-year window” and the idea that rituals or repetitive behaviors are something to eliminate. Together, they unpack the belief that meaningful progress in autistic development must happen before age five, offering a more hopeful, research-informed perspective that supports growth, learning, and connection across the lifespan. They also explore how so-called “rigid rituals” often serve an important purpose — helping autistic children feel safe, regulated, and able to make sense of their world. Rather than viewing these behaviors as problems, this conversation invites parents and educators to understand them as meaningful…