Letting Go of Perfection: Embracing Good Enough Parenting

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne addresses the pressure parents, especially those raising children internationally, feel to create perfect experiences for their kids. She unpacks the sources of this pressure, including guilt, fear of missing out, and social media comparisons. Clare introduces the concept of 'good enough parenting,' backed by scientific research from experts like Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. She explains the four S's (safe, seen, soothed, secure) that children need to develop a secure attachment, emphasizing that perfection is not required. Clare encourages parents to reflect on their own experiences and to focus on showing up for their children in everyday moments.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:11 The Pressure of Perfect Parenting
03:48 Understanding the Source of Parenting Pressure
06:51 The Science of 'Good Enough' Parenting
11:50 Practical Tips for Showing Up
14:01 Reflecting on Your Parenting Journey
15:27 Conclusion and Next Steps

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The Power of Showing Up: how parental pressure shapes who our kids become and how their brains gets wired. Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Navigating Summer Breaks as an International Family: Strategies for a Thriving Experience

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, explores strategies for managing the unique challenges of summer breaks for internationally mobile families. Clare recaps the previous discussion on the difficulties of living out of a suitcase during holidays and delves into practical tips including using visual supports for trip planning, creating daily anchor routines, understanding sensory preferences, handling external parenting advice, and the power of storytelling. 

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast
01:01 Recap of Previous Episode: Challenges of Holiday Travels
03:40 Strategies for Managing Executive Function Overload
04:48 Establishing Anchor Routines for Stability
05:38 Understanding Sensory Preferences for Better Parenting
08:51 Maintaining Autonomy While Staying with Others
11:15 Exploring Identity and Belonging
12:51 Recap and Final Thoughts

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Insights into the Challenges of Summer Travel for Globally Mobile Families

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne discusses the challenges international parents face during summer travel. Clare addresses executive function overload, regulatory and routine issues, sensory overload, loss of autonomy, and the impact of cultural and generational differences. She offers insights and acknowledges the complexities of traveling with children, and prepares listeners for upcoming strategies to better manage these challenges. Clare also invites listeners to connect with her on Instagram or her website, and to consider parent coaching through a free consultation call.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:03 Summer Short Series: Parenting on the Go
01:47 Challenges of Traveling with Kids
02:49 Executive Function Overload
04:30 Regulation, Routine, and Sensory Overload
05:56 Loss of Autonomy and Cultural Dynamics
07:18 Identity and Emotional Tension
08:20 Conclusion and Next Steps

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Embracing Boredom: Strategies for International Parents

In this episode of Globally Thriving Families, host Clare O'Byrne discusses the challenges and benefits of boredom for children, especially during school holidays. She explores why boredom is beneficial for developing executive function skills and offers practical strategies for parents to help their children manage boredom without constantly needing to provide entertainment. Clare emphasizes the importance of starting with safe activities, brainstorming creative ideas, and ensuring that children's sensory needs are met. The episode aims to provide insights and support for parents navigating the complexities of raising children internationally.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:02 Summer Shorts: Addressing 'I'm Bored'
02:36 The Benefits of Boredom
03:48 Challenges of Boredom for Different Kids
05:30 Practical Tips to Scaffold Boredom
06:17 Creative Ideas to Combat Boredom
08:58 Ensuring Regulation Before Activities
10:08 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
11:05 Stay Connected and Further Support

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Building Executive Function Skills During Travel: Insights for International Parenting

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, discusses how travel can help develop children's executive function skills, including emotional regulation. As part of the summer shorts series, Clare provides practical tips for managing travel-related stress and supporting children's wellbeing during school holidays. She emphasizes the importance of co-regulation, naming emotions, incorporating movement breaks, offering choices, and expecting some level of dysregulation. Clare also invites listeners to connect with her on social media and consider parent coaching.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:03 Summer Shorts Series Overview
01:34 Travel and Emotional Regulation
04:38 Supporting Executive Function Skills
04:51 Practical Tips for Co-Regulation
05:51 Name It to Tame It: Managing Big Feelings
06:39 Movement and Sensory Breaks
07:24 Empowering Kids with Choices
08:01 Expecting and Managing Dysregulation
08:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

Resources mentioned in this episode: The Whole - Brain Child by Dr Daniel J. Siegal and Dr Tina Payne Bryson. 

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Managing Sensory Regulation During International Travel

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, dives into practical strategies for international travel with children. Clare addresses the various sensory needs individuals face during travel and offers concrete advice on managing these challenges. From preparing sensory systems with 'heavy work' activities to handling emotional prep with social stories, Clare provides a comprehensive guide. She also shares personal experiences and reassurances for parents, emphasizing the importance of self-care and co-regulation during stressful travel situations.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:09 Preparing for Travel with Sensory Supports
02:44 Understanding Sensory Systems
06:22 Pre-Trip Sensory Preparation
11:52 Travel Day Strategies
17:41 Managing Meltdowns and Co-Regulation
23:18 Arrival and Resetting
24:59 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
25:26 Outro and Contact Information

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Downloadable activities for kids: @keepusbuzymum (Instagram)

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Navigating the Uncertainty of International Family Transitions

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, addresses the challenges faced by international families during periods of potential transitions. She delves into the emotional impact of living in limbo, how uncertainty affects both parents and children, and the concept of uncertainty tolerance from a neuroscience perspective. Clare offers practical tips for managing stress, staying grounded, and supporting children's emotional well-being during such times. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, maintaining routines, and fostering resilience in kids. Tune in for valuable insights and strategies to navigate these uncertain periods with confidence.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:09 Understanding the Uncertainty of International Living
02:53 The Emotional Impact of Uncertainty
07:35 Children and Uncertainty
09:48 Strategies for Managing Uncertainty
14:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

The Uncertainty Effect: How to Survive and Thrive Through the Unexpected, Michelle D. Lazarus, PhD

Third Culture Kids: The Experience of Growing Up Among Worlds, David C. Pollock and Ruth E. Van Reken

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

 Insights from a Globally Mobile Parent with Raffiah.

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne interviews Raffiah, a parent who has moved internationally nine times over the past 20 years. They discuss the challenges and strategies of raising children in different countries, maintaining cultural roots, and coping with repeated transitions. Raffiah shares her personal experiences, including her initial struggle with loss of independence, her journey in creating a supportive and creative environment for her children, and how she engaged them in the moving process. The episode also delves into the importance of investing in self-development amidst family responsibilities and offers practical advice for parents navigating international relocations.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast
01:07 Meet Raffiah: A Globally Mobile Parent
04:02 Challenges of Moving and Raising Kids Abroad
06:15 Finding Community and Coping with Loneliness
08:40 Creative Solutions for Parenting on the Move
12:27 Impact on Career and Personal Growth
17:29 Supporting Children Through Transitions
19:05 Involving Children in the Moving Process
20:29 Maintaining Cultural Heritage Abroad
24:05 Preparing Children for a Move
26:01 Managing Emotions and Friendships During Moves
29:06 Personal Reflections and Advice for Parents
36:10 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Raffiah on Instagram: @keepusbuzymum 

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting 

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne delves into the challenges and strategies surrounding children's online content consumption. Clare emphasizes the importance of staying curious and connected with your child, discussing key areas such as content quality, safety, privacy, and emotional wellbeing. She offers practical tips on how parents can monitor and engage with their children's digital habits without resorting to fear or restriction. The episode also highlights the value of critical thinking skills and the benefits and drawbacks of screen time. Clare encourages open conversations and provides resources like commonsensemedia.org to help parents navigate the digital landscape. Additionally, Clare offers free 20-minute consultations for personalized support.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families

01:05 Understanding Screen Time Content

03:24 Evaluating Online Safety and Privacy

03:55 Emotional Wellbeing and Online Habits

05:10 Collaborative Parenting Strategies

09:40 Critical Thinking and Online Value

12:44 Balancing Online and Offline Experiences

14:15 Conclusion and Support Resources

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Parental Guides: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/parents-ultimate-guide-to-parental-controls

Book a 20 minute free consultation with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, explores the multifaceted topic of screen time in parenting. Clare discusses the evolution of guidelines from health organizations, the implications of screen use on children's physical and emotional well-being, and provides practical strategies for managing screen habits within the family. She emphasizes the nuanced nature of screen use, especially for families living internationally or with neurodivergent children, and shares her own experiences and research insights. Clare also offers recommendations for setting boundaries, developing a family media plan, and reflecting on parental screen use to establish healthier habits. Lastly, she highlights the importance of unstructured play for children's development and advises parents not to be too hard on themselves as they navigate this complex issue.

00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families
01:04 The Screen Time Dilemma
01:34 Evaluating Family Screen Habits
02:06 Personal Experiences and Challenges
03:03 Screen Time in Different Contexts
04:38 Physical Use vs. Content Consumption
05:15 Guidelines and Recommendations
06:47 Reported Effects of Screen Time
11:28 Neurodiversity and Screen Use
13:25 Emotional Regulation and Screen Time
16:42 Setting Boundaries and Family Media Plans
20:22 Parental Screen Habits and Their Impact
23:55 Summary and Final Thoughts

Resources mentioned in today's episode:

Children & Screens ; https://www.childrenandscreens.org/

Book - How To Raise A Healthy Gamer, Dr Alok Kanojia: https://www.healthygamer.gg/how-to-raise-a-healthy-gamer

 Book- The Phone Fix, Dr Faye Begeti: https://www.drfayebegeti.com/thephonefix

Family Media Plan: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/fmp/Pages/MediaPlan.aspx

Technoference: https://www.childrenandscreens.org/learn-explore/research/technical-interference-screens-and-the-parent-child-relationship/

Connect with Clare: [email protected]

Website: https://www.globallythriving.com

Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving

Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting