Have you ever felt overwhelmed by parenting challenges or unsure how to navigate tough conversations with your child?

In this episode of Parenting Ed-Ventures, host Lara Courtepatte sits down with Dr. Ashley Miller, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, family therapist, and award-winning educator. Dr. Miller is a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of British Columbia, co-director of family therapy training, and the author of What to Say to Kids When Nothing Seems to Work—a science-backed guide to help parents handle difficult moments with confidence and care.

With over 15 years of experience working with children, teens, and families, Dr. Miller shares invaluable insights on:

• How parents can manage their own stress responses to better support their kids
• The difference between reacting and responding in heated parenting moments
• Practical strategies to strengthen parent-child bonds—even when things feel tense
• Why it’s never too late to grow as a parent and reconnect with your child

If you’ve ever struggled to stay calm, felt stuck in power struggles, or wondered how to repair after a tough moment, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and actionable strategies to help you build a stronger, more connected family.

Listen now to discover how small shifts can make a big impact on your parenting journey.

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Find more of Dr. Ashley Miller’s work:

What to Say to Kids When Nothing Seems to Work – Available here

Follow Dr. Ashley Miller on Instagram

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@parentingedventurespod

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https://tutorteach.ca/

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Intro Music: Good Times by Patrick Patrikios

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Have you ever wondered how nature can enrich your child’s learning experience and complement what they’re taught in the classroom? In this episode of Parenting Ed-Ventures, host Lara Courtepatte sits down with Anne Beauchamp, a passionate educator and Forest and Nature School Practitioner, to explore the powerful connection between outdoor learning and child development.

With over 14 years of experience teaching early elementary in a multi-graded setting, Anne now brings her expertise to the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada, advocating for the importance of play, exploration, and curiosity in learning. As a mother raising her family near Grasslands National Park, she understands firsthand how the natural world can foster resilience, creativity, and a love of learning in children.

In today’s conversation, Anne explains what Forest and Nature School education is all about and why this approach is gaining momentum. She dives into the benefits of outdoor learning, helping parents understand why time spent in nature is so impactful for children. Together, we also break down some of the most common misconceptions about nature-based education, discuss simple ways families can incorporate outdoor learning into daily life, and explore how parents can advocate for more nature-based opportunities in schools and communities.

If you’ve ever felt that your child could benefit from more time outside, or if you’re curious about how to balance structured education with hands-on, experiential learning, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how connecting with nature can transform your child’s learning journey and create lasting positive impacts.

-----Learn more about the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada:https://childnature.ca/-----Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Tutor Teach ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tutorteach.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

-----Intro Music: Good Times by Patrick PatrikiosSting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Do you ever feel like modern parenting has become a balancing act between giving your kids everything they need and stepping back to let them grow? Today, Lara sits down with Dr. Alex Russell, a clinical psychologist and expert in children’s emotional development and parenting. Dr. Russell is the author of Drop the Worry Ball: How to Parent in the Age of Entitlement, a must-read for parents navigating today’s complex world of over-parenting and helicopter tendencies.

With over two decades of experience working with children, teens, and families, Dr. Russell provides powerful insights into the pitfalls of over-parenting and why allowing kids to face challenges is essential for their growth. He introduces the idea of giving children an “apprenticeship in reality”—a way for them to learn resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills by experiencing real-world challenges in a supportive environment.

In this episode, we explore:
✔️ Why parents today feel pressured to step in and “solve” every challenge for their kids
✔️ How over-protection can unintentionally increase anxiety and lower self-esteem
✔️ The benefits of letting children experience frustration and failure in a safe way
✔️ Practical strategies for stepping back while still providing loving guidance

If you’ve ever worried about when to step in—or step back—as a parent, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to raise independent, emotionally strong children.

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Find more of Dr. Alex Russell's Work: https://russellpsychology.com/team/dr-alex-russell/

Buy Drop The Worry Ball on Amazon

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Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram:⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠

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Intro Music:Good Times by Patrick Patrikios

Sting Music:Timelapse by Purple Planet Music

Have you ever wondered how to raise kids who are not just financially responsible, but truly money-smart for life? In this episode of Parenting Ed-Ventures, Lara sits down with Robin Taub, a Chartered Professional Accountant, keynote speaker, and best-selling author of The Wisest Investment: Teaching Your Kids to Be Responsible, Independent, and Money-Smart for Life.

Robin’s expertise spans decades, from working in audit and taxation at Canada’s top accounting firms to navigating the complex world of derivatives marketing at Citibank Canada. As a parent herself, she understands firsthand the challenges of teaching financial literacy in a way that is engaging and age-appropriate.

In this conversation, Robin breaks down the Five Pillars of Money—Earn, Save, Spend, Share, and Invest—providing parents with practical strategies to make money conversations a natural part of everyday life. She shares insights on how to use teachable moments, avoid common financial pitfalls, and adapt lessons as kids grow. We also explore the importance of modeling good financial habits, empowering kids to develop a healthy relationship with money from a young age.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to start financial conversations with your children, this episode is packed with actionable tips, expert advice, and real-world examples to help you set your kids up for a lifetime of financial confidence.

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Find more of Robin’s work:
https://robintaub.com/

Follow Robin on Instagram:
@robin.taub

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Intro Music:Good Times by Patrick Patrikios
Sting Music:Timelapse by Purple Planet Music

Welcome to the second season of the Parenting Ed-Ventures Podcast!

Today, Lara sits down with two extraordinary guests who have helped millions of children and families navigate emotions like grief, separation, and anxiety through the power of storytelling and creativity.

Patrice Karst is the bestselling author of The Invisible String, a beloved children’s book that has comforted families worldwide by reminding them that love connects us all, no matter the distance. Inspired by her own experience as a single mother, Patrice’s simple yet profound message has become a timeless tool for coping with loss, separation anxiety, and big emotions.

Joining Patrice is Dr. Dana Wyss, a licensed marriage and family therapist, board-certified art therapist, and co-author of The Invisible String Workbook. With over 20 years of experience working with children and families, Dana specializes in using creative expression—art, writing, and movement—to help kids process their feelings and build emotional resilience.

In today’s episode, Patrice shares the heartfelt inspiration behind The Invisible String and the incredible impact the book has had on readers across generations. Dana dives into the therapeutic power of creativity and explains how the workbook’s activities help children develop self-esteem, express emotions, and strengthen connections with loved ones.

If you’ve ever struggled to find the right words to comfort a child experiencing loss, separation, or anxiety, this episode will give you valuable insights and practical tools to foster emotional well-being in your family.

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Find more of Patrice's work:

https://patricekarst.com/

Find more of Dana's work:

https://danawyssphd.com/about.html

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Follow the Patrice on Instagram:

⁠⁠@theinvisiblestringinsta

Follow Dana Wyss on Instagram:

⁠⁠@blue_girl_art

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentingedventurespod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Intro Music: Good Times by Patrick Patrikios

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

We’re wrapping up Season 1 of Parenting Ed-Ventures with an insightful conversation about a topic that many families face but few feel comfortable discussing openly: divorce and separation. In today’s episode, Lara sits down with Denis Sushkin, a Counselling Psychologist at the Calgary Counselling Centre with nearly two decades of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s most challenging moments.Denis shares his expert advice on navigating divorce when children are involved, offering practical strategies for approaching difficult conversations, avoiding common pitfalls, and understanding how kids of different ages may react emotionally. He also discusses ways parents can provide stability for their children during and after separation, manage their own emotions while supporting their kids, and co-parent effectively, even when tensions run high.This conversation is a must-listen for any parent navigating the complexities of separation or supporting a loved one who is. Denis’ guidance and wealth of experience provide the tools families need to maintain healthy dynamics and foster resilience during times of change.Don’t miss this valuable episode to close out our first season of Parenting Ed-Ventures!

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Learn more about the Calgary Counselling Centre:

⁠https://calgarycounselling.com/⁠

Learn more about Counselling Alberta: ⁠https://www.counsellingalberta.com/⁠

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Follow the Calgary Counselling Centre on Instagram:

⁠@yyccounselling⁠

Follow Counselling Alberta on Instagram:

⁠@counsellingalberta⁠

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Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.”

Intro Music: “Bunny Swell”

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Does bedtime feel like a nightly battle in your home? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, Lara sits down with Sammy Merritt, a Registered Psychologist certified in pediatric sleep and the founder of The Merritts of Sleep. Sammy’s expertise lies in providing evidence-based, attachment-focused, and mental health-conscious support for families working to overcome sleep challenges. As a mom of two, she knows the struggles parents face firsthand and brings practical, research-backed advice to the table.

In this episode, Sammy explains why quality sleep is essential for school-aged children, highlighting its impact on emotional regulation, learning, and overall well-being. She shares actionable tips on establishing healthy bedtime routines, encouraging independent sleep skills, and navigating common issues like bedtime resistance, nightmares, and night terrors. With her guidance, you’ll learn how to create a calm and consistent sleep environment that benefits the entire family.

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child wind down peacefully at night or wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the day, this episode is for you.

Learn more about Sammy's work:

⁠https://www.themerrittsofsleep.com/⁠

Follow ⁠@themerrittsofsleep⁠ on Instagram

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Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram

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Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.”

Intro Music: “Bunny Swell”

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Anti-bullying week is just around the corner and this week we're joined--for the second time--by Lisa Dixon-Wells, the founder of Dare to Care, Canada’s leading anti-bullying organization. With over 30 years of experience in education and amateur sports, Lisa has dedicated her life to creating safe spaces for children, advocating for mental health, and developing prevention programs that make a difference. As Anti-Bullying Week approaches, Lisa shares her deep insights into bullying prevention, making this episode an essential listen for parents who want to support their children in today’s challenging social environment.

In today’s episode, Lisa clarifies the difference between bullying and regular conflict and delves into the lasting effects bullying can have on both the victim and the bully.

With Dare to Care’s programs at the forefront of early intervention, Lisa explains how critical it is to address these behaviours early-on and create a culture of respect and empathy. She also shares actionable strategies that parents and educators can use to identify, address, and prevent bullying, providing practical advice for fostering safer, more supportive environments at school and in sports.

Join us as we explore Lisa’s powerful message and gain tools to support our children’s mental and emotional well-being. This conversation will leave you inspired to take part in the movement against bullying and equip you with the resources to make a meaningful impact.

Interested in Dare to Care's programming for parents? Check out their ⁠⁠parent education portal⁠⁠, equipped with 3 modules and year-long access for just $12 CAD

Learn more about the Dare to Care's programming:

⁠⁠https://www.daretocare.ca/⁠⁠

Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@daretocare2⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠@daretocaresports⁠⁠ on instagram

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Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.”

Intro Music: “Bunny Swell”

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

Today, Lara sits down with Maura Armstrong, a passionate science educator and communicator with over fifteen years of experience in informal education. Maura, who currently serves as the Director of Education at the TELUS World of Science Edmonton, is deeply committed to making science accessible and engaging for everyone. Whether you're a parent, educator, or curious mind, Maura’s dedication to sparking curiosity in children and fostering a love for exploration is sure to resonate.

In today’s episode, we explore why STEM education is so vital for kids’ development and how the TELUS World of Science’s unique approach—through interactive, experiential learning—sets them apart from traditional classroom settings. From science camps to immersive exhibits, Maura discusses the impact these programs have on building critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence in young minds. She also shares exciting updates on new programs and how families can get involved in nurturing their child’s interest in STEM.

If you’re a parent eager to empower your child through engaging and fun STEM opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to discover how the TELUS World of Science Edmonton is making a difference in the lives of kids and families by helping children discover the world of science, technology, engineering, and math in a way that’s both meaningful and memorable.

Learn more about the Telus World of Science STEM programming and camps:

⁠https://telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca/⁠

Follow ⁠@twosedm⁠ on instagram

Follow ⁠@TWoSEdm⁠ on X

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Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.”

Intro Music: “Bunny Swell”

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse

As parents, it’s natural to want to protect our children from harm—but could we be shielding them too much? Today, Lara sits down with Dr. Mariana Brussoni, a renowned researcher and advocate for outdoor, risky play in childhood. Dr. Brussoni is the Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership, a Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia, and an Investigator at the British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute. Her groundbreaking work explores the vital role that outdoor play, particularly play that involves an element of risk, has on children’s overall development. From fostering resilience and independence to supporting cognitive and emotional growth, risky play is a key ingredient in helping children develop into confident and capable adults.

In today’s episode, we dive into the topic of risky play, breaking down what it is, why it's so essential, and how parents can find that delicate balance between safety and allowing their children the freedom to explore. Dr. Brussoni shares insights on how outdoor play not only strengthens physical abilities but also enhances problem-solving skills, risk assessment, and emotional regulation in kids. If you’ve ever hesitated to let your child climb a tree or explore beyond your sight, this episode will provide the reassurance and evidence you need to embrace outdoor adventures with confidence.

Tune in to discover how a little risk can lead to big rewards in your child’s growth and development. You won’t want to miss this eye-opening conversation with Dr. Mariana Brussoni!

Learn more about Dr. Brussoni's work: 

https://www.outsideplay.org/

Follow @outsideplayubc on instagram

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Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram

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Intro: app.pipio.ai with voice “Charlie Z.”

Intro Music: “Bunny Swell”

Sting Music: Purple Planet Music - Timelapse