When your child has an explosive meltdown over seemingly nothing, or completely shuts down during conflict, what's really going on?

In our upcoming episode, I sit down with Robyn Gobbel, a trauma-informed parenting expert and author of "Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors," who brings a fascinating perspective on understanding challenging child behaviors through the lens of neuroscience.

Robyn introduces us to her unique framework of the "Owl, Watchdog, and Possum" - representing different states of our nervous system. She explains how these states influence our children's behaviors and why traditional discipline methods often fall short.

Through real-world examples and scientific insights, she helps parents understand that what we often label as "bad behavior" is actually their child's nervous system trying to find safety.

One of the most compelling parts of our conversation explores how parent communities play a crucial role in this journey. Robyn shares how being part of a supportive community helps parents develop their own sense of safety and regulation, which in turn helps them better support their children.

She also addresses why some children have such big reactions to small triggers, and offers practical strategies that work for kids of all ages.

Whether you're dealing with aggressive outbursts, emotional shutdowns, or just trying to better understand your child's behavior, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical tools for creating more connection and understanding in your relationship with your child.

Join us today for this enlightening conversation that might just transform how you view your child's challenging behaviors.

Are you tired of feeling like you've lost control of your home, where one child's moods dictate everyone's day? When I faced this same challenge with my three kids, I discovered a research-backed framework that transformed our daily meltdowns into moments of connection - and now I teach these exact strategies to parents in my Raising a Resilient Child Online course.

Registration is now open for a limited time. Join me for 8 weeks of bite-sized video lessons, live weekly coaching calls, and a supportive community, all designed to help you bring peace back to your home for just $47/month (with a 7-day risk-free trial). Click below to learn more.

To learn more about Robyn Gobbel

https://robyngobbel.com/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.

https://www.delightinparenting.com

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

Does your child struggle to tell you how they feel? Do meltdowns and big emotions leave you both feeling lost?

When art therapist Leah Guzman saw kids fighting to express their feelings with words, she discovered something amazing: simple art activities helped them share what was in their hearts. After 21 years of helping children through art, she's ready to share her secrets with parents.

In this episode, you'll discover:

* The surprising way drawing feelings can stop meltdowns faster than talking

* A special art project that helps worried kids feel calm (even if you're not artistic!)

* The 5-minute creative activity that brings parents and kids closer together

Listen in now to learn how a few colored markers and some simple art supplies can transform your relationship with your child. You don't need any art skills - just an open heart and willingness to try something new with your kid.

P.S. Leah shares exactly what to say when your child says "I'm not good at art" - her gentle response will surprise you.

If you connected with Leah's ideas about helping kids express their feelings, you'll want to join me for my upcoming free workshop: "Beyond Power Struggles: Help Your Child Move from Meltdowns to Cooperation."

Like art therapy, I'll show you practical ways to help your child share what's really going on inside. You'll learn exactly what to say during meltdowns, how to stay calm when your child is falling apart, and simple strategies to prevent aggressive outbursts before they start.

Join parents just like you who want to move beyond power struggles to real connection. Save your spot for Monday, January 21st, at 10am Central Time - and yes, I'll send you the replay if you can't make it live.

To learn more about Leah Guzman

https://leahguzman.com/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.

https://www.delightinparenting.com

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

If you're parenting a child who seems to push back on every boundary, questions authority constantly, and exhausts you with their intense emotions - you may have what parenting expert Jennifer Kolari calls a "gladiator child." These spirited children are often highly sensitive, care deeply about justice and fairness, and test limits relentlessly.

Your gladiator likely follows rules perfectly at school but melts down at home. They may resist bedtime fiercely, argue about everything, and leave you feeling drained and questioning your parenting. While this can feel overwhelming, these challenging traits often signal a future leader in the making.

Kolari suggests approaching these children with what she calls "loving detachment" - staying calm and firm while acknowledging their feelings. For example, when your child demands cookies before dinner, start by connecting: "I understand you really want cookies right now. They're delicious and it's hard to wait." Then hold the boundary with confidence: "I love you enough to say no to cookies before dinner. You can have big feelings about that, and the answer will stay the same."

The key is expecting the protest without getting pulled into a power struggle. Make your request, then give them space rather than standing over them demanding compliance. As Kolari notes, these children need structure but rebel against controlling approaches.

The good news? Many of these intense young children grow into self-aware, morally-grounded teenagers who know their own minds. Their early challenges with authority and strong sense of justice often become assets as they mature.

For now, focus on maintaining connection before correction. Your gladiator child needs to know you can handle their big emotions while still holding loving boundaries. Remember - their intense feelings and questioning nature may feel overwhelming today, but these same traits, when matured, can help them become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow.

Want to learn more? Listen to the full conversation with Jennifer Kolari on the Podcast, where she shares practical strategies for parenting strong-willed children.

To learn more about Jennifer Kolari:

https://www.connectedparenting.com/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.

https://www.delightinparenting.com

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

Join us for the STOP the Aggression free Speaker Series live from January 8th-14th, 2025 to learn more about parenting a gladiator child. Click here to get your free ticket.

In our latest podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Emily Murray from Hand in Hand Parenting. Emily brings her expertise on how parents can build intentional family cultures and create the joyful, connected homes we all envision.

🌱 In This Episode, We Explore:

The Family Garden AnalogyEmily introduces the concept of your family culture as a garden. With intentional care, nourishment, and “tending the soil,” families can thrive despite the daily challenges of parenting.

Breaking Generational CyclesDiscover how our parenting habits—shaped by how we were parented—can unconsciously influence how we show up. Emily shares how to recognize and interrupt these cycles to align with the parent you want to be.

The Power of Listening PartnershipsLearn how to lighten your emotional load with Hand in Hand’s signature tool, Listening Partnerships. These simple, mutual listening exchanges with another adult can help you offload stress and refocus on your parenting goals.

Practical Tools for Positive ShiftsFrom fridge lists to playful parenting techniques, Emily shares small, actionable steps to bring more connection, playfulness, and intention to your family life.

💡 Key Takeaways for Parents:

➡️ Parenting is a Practice: Progress, not perfection, is the goal. Parenting is a lifelong relationship that grows as your children grow.

➡️ Tend to Your Own “Backpack”: Offloading stress through listening and community support makes it easier to show up for your kids.

➡️ Focus on Small Shifts: Big changes come from focusing on one small area at a time—whether it’s sibling relationships, bedtime, or mealtime struggles.

🎧 Listen now to explore how to align your daily parenting with your long-term vision for your family!

Want to learn how to become a playful parent? Join me for a 2-hour Brand NEW Virtual Live The Playful Parenting Workshop today Thursday, December 5th at 12pm Central Time.

After today's workshop, you'll be able to:

* Stay calm during holiday meltdowns and turn them around with play

* Create joyful moments during busy holiday preparations

* Connect with your child even when you're tired and overwhelmed

* Feel confident handling big holiday emotions and expectations

* Make everyday tasks like getting dressed or bedtime feel easier through play

If any of the above sounds like you, then you’re in the right place. Click here to learn more about the upcoming Playful Parenting Workshop!

To learn more about Emily Murray and Hand in Hand Parenting:

https://www.handinhandparenting.org/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.

https://www.delightinparenting.com/

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

In this week’s podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Larry Cohen, author of Playful Parenting and founder of Playful Parenting International. We dive into how play can be a powerful tool to help children and parents navigate anxiety, build resilience, and deepen connection. Whether it’s playful role reversals, roughhousing, or simply engaging with your child on their level, Dr. Cohen shares strategies to ease worry and foster joy in your parenting journey.

🌱 In This Episode, We Explore:

The Connection Between Play and Anxiety Relief

Dr. Cohen explains how play strengthens family bonds, creates a sense of safety, and helps children (and parents) release pent-up stress. Learn why playful interactions are key to reducing tension in anxious households.

Empowering Kids Through Play

Discover how role-playing and silly games can help children face their fears—whether it’s a scary bug or a big test. Dr. Cohen demonstrates how reversing roles allows children to feel powerful and in control of their emotions.

Calming the Nervous System with Active Play

Roughhousing, running, and physical games can soothe the fight-or-flight response in children. Dr. Cohen explains why active, somatic play helps children process anxiety better than words or explanations alone.

💡 Key Takeaways for Parents:

➡️ Let Play Be Timeless: Dedicate moments to play without distractions. Set a timer if needed to create a space where you can fully immerse in the joy and flow of play.

➡️ Validate First, Then Play: When your child is anxious, acknowledge their fears before using play to shift their emotional state. This helps them feel understood and opens the door for playful healing.

➡️ Roughhousing Is Healing: Don’t shy away from pillow fights or wrestling games. These physical activities help release nervous energy and signal to the brain that the danger has passed.

➡️ Balance Safety and Risk: Allow children to determine their own level of risk during play. This builds confidence and resilience as they learn to trust their instincts.

👉 Listen now to discover how playful parenting can transform anxiety into connection and confidence for your family.

Want to learn how to become a playful parent? Join me for a 2-hour Brand NEW Virtual Live The Playful Parenting Workshop coming up on Thursday, December 5th at 12pm Central Time.

You feel too overwhelmed or busy for "play time"

✅You're seeking meaningful ways to connect during the holidays

✅You parent a spirited child and need fresh connection strategies

✅You don't want to buy more "stuff" your child doesn't need

✅You value conscious parenting but struggle with perfectionism, feeling like maybe you're just serious and not a playful person

If any of the above sounds like you, then you’re in the right place. Click here to learn more about the upcoming Playful Parenting Workshop!

To learn more about Dr. Larry Cohen:

https://www.playfulparenting.com/

To subscribe to Dr. Cohen’s newsletter, send an email to: [email protected].

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.

https://www.delightinparenting.com/

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

In my heartfelt conversation with Dr. Shosh Bennett, we explore how showing love and care for your partner creates a foundation of security and emotional well-being for your whole family. We understand that navigating partnership while parenting can feel challenging, and Dr. Bennett shares how small moments of connection with your partner can make a profound difference.

🌱 Together, We Explore:

Creating a Safe Harbor When children witness genuine care between their parents/caregivers, they feel more secure in their world. Dr. Bennett shares how these moments of connection help children feel protected and loved, even when they're not the immediate focus of attention.

Growing Through Example Your children learn about love and relationships by watching you. Dr. Bennett explains how your warm interactions, gentle touches, and kind words with your partner become their blueprint for future relationships. This modeling happens naturally, without pressure or performance.

Finding Balance with Grace Learn how to navigate those moments when both your partner and children need you. Dr. Bennett offers compassionate strategies for maintaining connection with your partner while ensuring your children feel secure and valued.

💡 Gentle Reminders for Parents:

➡️ Small Moments Matter: A warm hug, a loving glance, or a few minutes of focused conversation with your partner can fill your home with security and love.

➡️ Everyone Grows: When children learn that relationships need nurturing, they develop patience, empathy, and understanding of others' needs.

➡️ You're Teaching Love: Your relationship with your partner is one of your child's first teachers about connection, respect, and care.

👉 Join us for this tender exploration of how nurturing your partnership creates a loving foundation for your entire family.

To learn more about Dr. Shosh:

https://drshosh.com/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult. or Trial Delight in Membership for free for 30 Days.

https://www.delightinparenting.com/membership

https://www.delightinparenting.com/

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

In our latest podcast episode, I’m honored to host Dr. Melissa Reilly, a clinical psychologist and mom without a mom, who sheds light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by mothers who are raising children without the love and guidance of a maternal figure. Whether due to loss, distance, or strained relationships, Dr. Reilly’s insights provide understanding and hope for moms navigating this journey.

🌱 In This Episode, We Explore:

The Unique Challenges of Being a Motherless Mother

Dr. Reilly shares how not having a mother to turn to for guidance impacts a mother's confidence and parenting experience. Learn about the common struggles of shame, grief, and identity issues that arise when raising children without maternal support, and why recognizing these feelings is essential.

The Role of Grief and How It Manifests

Discover how grief and longing for maternal support can appear in unexpected ways, from irritability to feelings of emptiness. Dr. Reilly explains how acknowledging these emotions can help mothers process them more effectively.

Creating Your Own Support System

Dr. Reilly emphasizes the importance of building a network of people to support different needs. Learn about the four types of people every mom needs in her community and how to identify them to create a reliable network of support.

Small Self-Care Practices with Big Impact

Dr. Reilly shares practical self-care strategies for moms who don’t have a built-in support system. From guided imagery to mindful affirmations, these practices help moms recharge and model healthy self-care for their children.

💡 Key Takeaways for Moms Without a Mom:

➡️ Recognize and Name Your Emotions: Identifying grief or feelings of shame is the first step to addressing them. Dr. Reilly encourages moms to explore these emotions without judgment.

➡️ Find Your Support Network: You don’t need to rely on just one person for everything. Look for wise advisors, emotional supporters, go-getters, and friends who can be there during late hours when needed.

➡️ Practice Self-Care, No Matter How Small: Small moments of self-care can be powerful. Whether it's a quick guided meditation, journaling, or making a simple choice that reflects your needs, these acts remind you that you matter.

If you’re a mother navigating parenthood without maternal support, this episode offers validation, practical tools, and hope to strengthen your journey and enhance your resilience.

👉 Listen now to learn how to build your own support system, navigate complex emotions, and parent with confidence and care.

Want more support on your healing journey?

If you’re a mom carrying the weight of trauma and feeling ready to find real healing, I wanted to remind you about Dr. Reilly’s Empowered Emotional Healing Workshop, co-hosted by Emilie Berkman, Dr. Melissa Reilly and Savannah Miller, happening soon from November 12-14. This workshop is all about giving moms like you the tools to release trauma, cultivate inner peace, and reconnect with ourselves—all in a supportive, understanding space. Click below to learn more.

To learn more about Dr. Melissa Reilly:

https://www.momswithoutamom.com/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult. or Trial Delight in Membership for free for 30 Days.

https://www.delightinparenting.com/membership

https://www.delightinparenting.com/

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

In our latest podcast episode, I’m excited to welcome peaceful parenting coach and nutrition and health coach, Michelle Henning, who shares her powerful journey of resilience, transformation, and the path to becoming a peaceful parent. Michelle opens up about her childhood struggles with anger and rebellion and how a foundation of unconditional love helped her find peace.

🌱 In This Episode, We Explore:

The Power of Connection and AcceptanceMichelle describes how feeling fully accepted allowed her to work through her challenges. Hear how you can use this approach to help your child feel seen, valued, and understood—even during their most difficult moments.

Separating the Child from the StruggleLearn how to distinguish your child’s essence from their challenging behaviors. Michelle shares that while children may act out, it doesn’t define who they are. It’s a reminder to look for the struggle behind the outburst and build their sense of self-worth.

Normalizing EmotionsMichelle emphasizes the importance of letting children experience their feelings. She shares how parents can help children feel safe in their emotions without judgment or shame, creating a more peaceful environment that nurtures resilience.

Building Unshakable Security through LoveMichelle reminds parents that showing children they’re deeply loved, just as they are, lays the groundwork for emotional stability. This love and acceptance encourage children to grow confidently, knowing they have a safe space to return to.

💡 Key Takeaways for Parents:

➡️ Empathy Over Control: Remember, your child’s struggles are not personal failures. Your calm presence and understanding can help them navigate through challenging feelings.

➡️ Words of Affirmation: Simple affirmations like “You are good just as you are” or “I love you unconditionally” can become touchpoints for your child’s self-confidence.

➡️ Stay Present During Big Emotions: Michelle reminds us that simply being there, even without fixing the issue, can help children process and release their emotions, setting them up for greater resilience.

If you’re navigating turbulent behaviors with your child, this episode offers hope, actionable tips, and inspiring stories that can make all the difference in your parenting journey.

👉 Listen now to find connection, understanding, and encouragement.

To learn more about Michelle Henning:

https://www.growhappykids.com/

Connect with Dajana Yoakley

Delight in Parenting

Step #1 — Get the 3 Steps to Reset Your Nervous System FREE Guide or book a FREE 20 minute consult.

https://www.delightinparenting.com

https://www.delightinparenting.com/book-online

Step #2 — Learn More about my signature online course: “Raising a Resilient Child”. https://www.delightinparenting.com/course

Step #3 — Connect With The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/delightinparentingfree

Step #4- Follow me on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/delightinparenting/

https://www.facebook.com/delightinparentingcoaching/

https://www.youtube.com/@DelightinParenting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/delightinparenting/

https://www.pinterest.com/delightinparenting/

https://medium.com/@delightinparenting

In our latest podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Jamie Lynn Tatera, an expert in self-compassion for children, parents, and families. We dive deep into what it takes to nurture self-compassion in our kids and ourselves—so that it becomes second nature. Jamie shares her best insights from teaching parent-child self-compassion courses, working directly with children, and creating her new, play-based self-compassion activity books.

🔍 In This Episode, Discover:

Modeling Self-Compassion as a Parent:Jamie emphasizes the importance of starting self-compassion practices with ourselves so we can effectively model it for our children. By sharing our own struggles openly and showing our self-compassion practices in everyday moments, we set a powerful example for kids to follow. 🌟

The Feelings Habit Animal Quiz:Learn about Jamie’s Feelings Habit Animal Quiz, a tool to help identify your child’s unique way of managing emotions. Each child approaches their emotions differently, so discovering if they are more like a deer (who feels shame), a chameleon (who hides emotions), or one of Jamie’s other “animals” can help tailor self-compassion practices for your child. 🦒

Incorporating Self-Compassion Through Play:Jamie shares how to use play, including her own adorable “resilience habit animals,” to bring compassion to life in a way that feels safe and engaging for kids. This helps them internalize key self-compassion skills like mindfulness, kindness, and recognizing common human