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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen! 

In this episode, we talk about Nora Ephron’s “plastic and glass balls” theory - the idea that in life, we’re constantly juggling responsibilities, but some are made of glass and others of plastic. Drop a plastic ball, and it bounces. Drop a glass one, and it shatters.

Through the lens of parenting, we explore what this means for moms and dads who are trying to balance work, home, school, and self-care. Which balls are truly glass and how do you recognize them before it’s too late?

We share real-life stories from our classrooms and kitchens, helping parents identify what’s worth holding onto and what can safely bounce. From letting go of guilt over forgotten permission slips to protecting those precious moments of connection with your kids, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that not everything needs to be perfect ... just protected.

Key Takeaways:

• How to recognize your “glass balls” in parenting
• Why letting some “plastic” responsibilities drop can actually make you stronger
• How to model balance and resilience for your kids
• Simple mindset shifts that help parents focus on what really matters

Join us for this honest and encouraging conversation about balance, priorities, and giving yourself permission to let a few things bounce.

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen!

In this episode, we explore how teaching kids the power of kindness and service shapes who they become. Acts of kindness - whether big or small; not only brighten someone else’s day but also strengthen a child’s sense of empathy, confidence, and resilience.

We’ll talk about how serving others helps kids see beyond themselves, builds gratitude, and gives them real-world problem-solving skills. From simple family traditions of helping neighbors to school and community projects, you’ll hear practical ways to weave kindness and service into everyday life.

By the end, you’ll walk away inspired to encourage your child to make a positive impact because when kids learn that their small actions matter, they grow into compassionate, capable adults ready to face challenges with both strength and heart.

See you at the table!

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen!

In this episode, we reframe parent-teacher conferences as more than just a quick check-in about grades. These meetings are a powerful opportunity to build a real connection with your child’s teacher and become partners working toward the same goal: your child’s success and well-being.

We’ll share how to approach conferences with the mindset of collaboration, what kinds of questions open the door to meaningful conversations, and why listening is just as important as sharing. You’ll also hear practical tips for following up at home so the partnership continues long after the meeting ends.

By the end, you’ll see conferences not as an obligation on the school calendar, but as a chance to strengthen the team around your child because when parents and teachers work together, kids thrive.

See you at the table! 

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1. Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen!

In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest challenges parents face: stepping back instead of stepping in. As moms and teachers, we know how tempting it can be to clear every obstacle from our child’s path but true growth happens when kids learn to navigate bumps in the road themselves.

We’ll explore how preparing the child for the road, rather than clearing the road for the child, builds grit, confidence, and problem-solving skills. You’ll hear stories and strategies about:

• When to let kids struggle a little (and why that’s okay).
• How to provide guidance without taking over.
• The role of natural consequences in shaping resilience.
• Practical ways to balance support and independence.

By the end, you’ll walk away with tools to help your child face challenges head-on, bounce back from setbacks, and trust their own ability to handle what life brings their way.

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen!

In this episode, we  explore what it really means for kids to develop agency - the ability to take ownership of their choices, actions, and learning. As moms and teachers, we have seen firsthand that when children are given the tools to make decisions, reflect on outcomes, and learn from mistakes, they grow into resilient, confident problem-solvers.

You’ll hear why fostering agency isn’t about giving kids free rein, but about guiding them with structure, boundaries, and love so they feel safe enough to take responsibility. We’ll talk about:

• How agency builds independence and self-motivation.
• Ways to let kids experience natural consequences without “rescuing” them too quickly.
• Practical strategies for encouraging ownership at home and in school (from homework to household chores).
• Why celebrating effort and growth matters more than perfection.

By the end of the conversation, you’ll walk away with realistic tools to help your child step into the driver’s seat of their own learning and life. Because when kids believe they have the power to make choices and shape their future, they grow stronger, more capable, and ready to take on the world.

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen!

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the tricky balance between being gentle and being firm as a parent. Is it possible to be both? (Spoiler alert: yes, and it might be the key to raising confident, respectful kids!)

We share real-life stories and practical tools that help parents move away from the old “either/or” mindset. You'll hear us talk about how being too lenient can lead to chaos and how being too strict can shut kids down. So what’s the alternative? A calm, clear, and connected approach that blends love with boundaries.

You’ll walk away with:

• Simple phrases you can use when your child pushes limits
• Tips for staying grounded (even when your patience is running low)
• Why connection doesn’t mean giving in and firmness doesn’t mean being harsh

Join us as we explore what it looks like to parent from a place of love and leadership. Because when kids feel safe and seen, they’re more likely to listen and thrive.

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen! 

Ever find yourself thinking, “This shouldn’t be happening” or “My child should know better by now”? Yep, us too. But as Mel Robbins says "arguing with reality never works."

In this episode of Chalkboard to Kitchen Table, we’re talking about the power of acceptance in parenting. As moms and teachers, we’ve learned that the moment we stop fighting what is and start meeting our kids where they are that is where real change begins.

Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up. It means seeing clearly so you can respond with calm, clarity, and love.

Tune in for honest talk, real-life stories, and practical ways to stop the power struggles and start connecting.

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen! 

As moms and teachers, we've had tough but important conversations with kids about friendship drama, bullying, and even when they might be the ones causing harm - online or in person.

In this episode of Chalkboard to Kitchen Table, we’re getting real about how to help your child navigate conflict, stand up for themselves, make things right if they’ve hurt someone, and stay safe online.

We’re not here to judge but we’re here to help. These are the tools we use with our own kids and students every day.

Join us for honest talk and practical tips to raise kind, confident, and resilient kids.

Welcome to the table! 

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Welcome to Chalkboard to Kitchen Table with Trish and Eileen! 

As moms and teachers, we’ve seen firsthand how simple daily routines can set kids up for success - both at home and in the classroom.

In our latest episode of Chalkboard to Kitchen Table, we’re sharing easy, doable habits to help your child focus, thrive, and feel confident at school like starting the day with a calm morning, building in brain breaks, and creating a consistent after-school routine.

These aren’t Pinterest-perfect idea! Just real-life tips that work (even on hectic days).

 Listen in for practical ways to support your child’s learning journey...one small step at a time. You’ve got this, and we’re right here with you!

Welcome to the Table!