Listener Note: This episode explores a specific, often traditional perspective on parenting that may trigger feelings of "mom guilt." Please listen with care and take only what serves you.

In this episode of Dam Parenting, we dive into the deep—and sometimes polarizing—waters of attachment theory with licensed clinical social worker and author Erica Komisar. With over 30 years of experience, Erica discusses the core thesis of her book, Being There, focusing on the emotional and physical presence of a mother during a child’s first three years. We take a warm, honest, and direct look at the science of early childhood development, while acknowledging the immense societal and professional pressures modern mothers face—especially as internationals in the Netherlands. This is a conversation about the "why" behind attachment, the challenges of finding balance, and the importance of self-compassion as we navigate our unique parenting journeys. Whether you're seeking affirmation or a new perspective, we're holding space for it all.

In honor of LGBTQ+ Families Day, Dam Parenting welcomes Jillian to take a warm, honest, and direct look at what it’s really like to raise a child in the Netherlands when your family doesn’t fit the "traditional" mold. Jillian shares her journey of moving here as part of a same-sex couple, the research that led them to the Netherlands, and the unexpected gaps in support they encountered upon arrival.

We dive into the importance of representation and the vital role of organizations like Meer dan Gewenst in helping families find their footing. From navigating legal hurdles to building a community that feels like home, Jillian offers invaluable advice for LGBTQ+ families considering a move or already adjusting to Dutch life. Whether you are part of the community, an ally, or an international parent interested in the diverse fabric of our "village," this episode is a celebration of resilience, love, and the power of finding where you belong.

Resources Mentioned:

• Meer dan Gewenst is the name of the community organisation Jillian mentioned.

  The webinar Jillian spoke about details can be found below in the link. The next webinar is expected July 11th.

  Online space with an abundance of resources

Why do small children have such massive reactions to seemingly tiny problems? In this kickoff to our new monthly series, child psychologist Dr. Faye Poole from Kerr Psychology⁠ takes a warm, honest, and direct look at the neuroscience of "big emotions." We dive into the physical reality of the developing brain, exploring how the amygdala and prefrontal cortex play tug-of-war during a meltdown.

Faye explains the crucial difference between a tantrum and a true meltdown and offers practical, "in-the-moment" strategies like co-regulation and the "Name It to Tame It" technique. We discuss everyday triggers—from shoe-struggles to food refusal—and why your calm presence is the most powerful tool you have. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your child’s intensity, this episode provides the clarity and scripts you need to move from control to connection. It’s not about stopping the emotion; it’s about helping them navigate it.

Grief doesn’t follow a government calendar, and the "24-week rule" for pregnancy loss leave is finally being challenged. In this powerful episode, Eva joins Fidessa to discuss the movement for national grievance leave for all parents experiencing pregnancy loss. We share an incredible update: thanks to this petition, cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht have already stepped up to accept these terms, proving that local action can force a national conversation.

We take a warm, honest, and direct look at the gap in workplace protections for those experiencing loss in the first or second trimester. This conversation isn't just about policy; it’s about the human right to heal without the pressure of a "business as usual" return to work. Tune in to hear how this grassroots movement is successfully reshaping the Dutch workplace and why your voice is still needed to turn these city-wide victories into a nationwide reality for every parent.

Do you worry that your child is falling behind or that you aren't providing "enough" language exposure? You aren't alone. In this first episode of our monthly series with Mimi from Growing Up Multilingual, we take a warm, honest, and direct look at the invisible stress and self-doubt that many international parents carry.

We dive into why your emotional well-being is actually a primary driver of your child's language development, backed by research showing that maternal mental health predicts the richness of a child's home environment. Mimi and Eva discuss how to shift from a mindset of "doing more" to one of self-awareness and intentionality. We explore how to redefine success, let go of comparison, and focus on connection over perfection. If you're a tired parent juggling cultures and languages, take a breath and tune in. You aren't behind, and you are doing more than enough.

Subscribe, rate, and share this episode with fellow multilingual families. MiMi will be joining us every month to dive even deeper into these powerful, real-life conversations.

Links to topics discussed

-A study published in the Journal of Child Language found that maternal mental health predicts the richness of a child's home language environment and even their expressive language skills - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33818326/

Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) affects over 3% of pregnancies in the Netherlands, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood complications of pregnancy. In this vital episode of Dam Parenting, Eva sits down with Jessica Sinay from Stichting ZEHG to take a warm, honest, and direct look at the reality of HG. Moving beyond the "morning sickness" myth, we discuss the relentless physical toll, the risk of dehydration, and the mental health challenges—including PTSD—that often follow.

Jessica shares her personal journey and provides essential information on Dutch treatment options, from common medications to the work of leading experts like Professor Rebecca Painter. We explore how international parents can access HG coaches, find private support communities for partners, and navigate the Dutch healthcare system with confidence. Whether you are currently battling HG or supporting someone who is, this episode is a roadmap for finding the compassionate care and medical recognition every family deserves.

Resources & Support:

• HG Coaches & Mental Health Support

• • Private Dutch HG Facebook communities for women, partners, and families

  A private Facebook community ⁠ (>4,400 members)

  ⁠Dutch HG group for partners of women with HG ⁠

  ⁠ Dutch HG group for family, friends etc⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

• A network of trained dietitian's in cooperation with ⁠Novita in Utrecht⁠

• • Partner stories and recovery support articles on the ⁠official website⁠
  • 
    

⁠You can make a donation to Stichting ZEHG here and support better care for women with HG.

Listen now and help raise awareness about this life-altering pregnancy condition.

#HyperemesisGravidarum #PregnancySupport #StichtingZEHG #HGAwareness #MaternalHealth #PregnancyPodcast #DutchHealthcare

What happens when the "new baby" check-ins stop, but you still feel like you’re finding your footing? In this season premiere of Dam Parenting, Eva reunites with early guest Harriet for an honest, 14-month postpartum check-in. We move past the newborn haze to take a warm and direct look at the long-term emotional recovery and identity shifts that happen well after the first year.

Together, they reflect on the gap between expectation and reality, the unexpected joys of toddlerhood, and the parts of maternal Matrescence that no one prepares you for. This isn't just a catch-up; it’s a raw window into the ongoing journey of becoming a mother in the Netherlands. Whether you are currently navigating the 12-month mark or looking back from further down the road, this episode is a reminder to pause, relate, and breathe. The transformation is still happening, and you’re doing better than you think.

You can find Harriet on Instagram here

It’s finally here. To kick off Season 2 of Dam Parenting, Eva returns for a warm, honest, and direct solo episode to mark Maternal Mental Health Month. This month is the very foundation of this podcast—born from the need to support mothers navigating the unique emotional hurdles of raising children in a foreign country. After a successful first season exploring the "shadow topics" of parenthood, we are stepping back into the conversation to ensure no parent in the Netherlands feels they have to struggle in silence.

In this season opener, Eva reflects on the journey so far and sets the stage for the raw, real topics coming your way. This is an invitation to our international community: your voice matters. We want to hear what you’re facing, from the joys to the invisible burdens. Join us as we continue to build a village of support, breaking down stigmas one honest conversation at a time.

I have some news: Dam Parenting isn't going anywhere! In this quick 2025 update, Eva takes a warm, honest, and direct moment to share why the podcast is continuing and what the future looks like for our international community in the Netherlands. While we are taking a brief, intentional pause to coordinate fresh guest voices and new episodes, the mission remains the same: creating a space for real conversations about the "beautiful chaos" of pregnancy, postpartum, and modern parenthood abroad.

This platform is built with you in mind, and your input is what keeps it relevant. Whether you have a specific topic you’re struggling with, a guest recommendation, or a personal story you feel needs to be heard, we want to hear from you. Check the links in our bio or DM us on Instagram to help shape our upcoming season. Thank you for being part of this village—we’re just getting started.

We made it! With over 100 episodes now in the books, Eva and Maren take a warm, honest, and direct look back at the highlights of 2024. From deep dives into relationship dynamics and neuroscience to the raw vulnerability of birth stories and matrescence, it has been a transformative year for the Dam Parenting community. In this special season finale, we revisit the moments that resonated most and reflect on the growth we’ve shared as international parents in the Netherlands.

But this isn't just a look back—we also have some major news and updates about what’s in store for 2025. Whether you’ve been with us since Episode 1 or just joined the village, tune in for a heartfelt wrap-up and a sneak peek at our next chapter. Thank you for being part of our journey. Grab a warm drink, enjoy the festive season, and let’s celebrate closing out an incredible year together.