The secure attachment style has been known to shape a child’s confidence, resilience, and relationship skills, creating a foundation for lifelong well-being. Yet, it can seem mysterious and overwhelming in the hustle of everyday parenting. So, this week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews psychotherapist Erin Leonard to learn more about what it takes to inspire a secure attachment style in a child.

With 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist, Erin Leonard is an author for several media outlets by the likes of The Huffington Post and ParentCo, and additionally, has appeared on WGN and FOX affiliates. Impressively, Erin Leonard has received numerous awards, from the Shaw Research Award for her time at Children’s Memorial Medical Center, to the Bronze Living Now Award for her book ‘Loving Well: The Key to Satisfying and Joyful Relationships’. But above all, Erin Leonard’s favorite title is ‘mom’ of two silly and sassy 12-year-olds who have taught her the most about life.

In this episode, Erin Leonard addresses the biggest misconceptions about attachment styles, and sheds light on the most common parenting mistakes made when it comes to helping a child develop a secure attachment style. In addition, Erin Leonard shares examples of key stages, milestones, and interactions in a child’s life that are particularly crucial for encouraging a secure attachment.

Together, Marie and Erin Leonard delve into the parental challenges of stress, work-life balance, and mental health issues, and explore practical habits for fostering secure attachments in children. So, whether you’re a new parent or looking to strengthen your connection with an older child, tune in to this episode for science-backed tips for encouraging confidence and security as a parent!

Follow Erin Leonard’s work: 

How to Outsmart a Narcissist: https://www.amazon.com.au/How-Outsmart-Narcissist-Emotional-Intelligence-ebook/dp/B0CM63197Z

Connect with Erin Leonard via the following platforms:

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

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Postpartum well-being isn’t just about physical recovery; it’s a transformative phase packed with identity shifts, emotional hurdles, and mental struggles. This week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews postnatal researcher Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) to learn more.

Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) is a 3rd (going into 4th) year PhD Candidate at the University of Ottawa. While she’s not a parent herself, Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) is extremely passionate about advocating for pregnancy and parenting rights through her academic and activist work. Her undergraduate, master’s, and PhD research has focused on the physical activity experiences of pregnant, postpartum, and mothering women. Specifically, she’s examined how societal conceptions of motherhood influence physical activity engagement and access to physical activity in different contexts and at different levels. She’s also a co-founder of MOMentum, which is a non-profit organization that supports elite women athletes with family planning through resources, grants, and advocacy. In her spare time, Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) is a competitive beach volleyball player and board game enthusiast.

In this episode, Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) sheds light on the importance of opening up discussions about postpartum health, as well as the various factors that may impact a mother’s postpartum well-being. Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) also highlights the detrimental effects of social isolation on a postpartum mother’s health, and offers examples on social activities that can help take the edge off.

Together, Marie and Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c) answer questions from the internet’s postpartum women, and discuss useful habits for managing the postnatal journey. So, if you or someone you know is navigating the postpartum period, tune in to this episode for science-backed insights on the postpartum journey!

Follow Talia Ritondo, M.A., PhD(c)’s work: 

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Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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Navigating the daily ups and downs of raising children can be challenging — especially when big emotions and stress take the center stage. This week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella consults clinical psychologist Beth Kurland, Ph.D. on the ins and outs of self-regulation for parents, and how it can benefit a child’s well-being.

Passionate about teaching mindfulness-informed practices and mind-body strategies, Beth Kurland, Ph.D. is a mind-body coach, author of four award-winning books, and a TEDx and public speaker to boot. Beth Kurland, Ph.D. is also the proud creator of the Well-Being Toolkit online program, and has created four audio courses to help people reduce stress, awaken to their fullest life, and set heartfelt intentions that stick. Additionally, Beth Kurland, Ph.D. offers individual and group coaching to help people discover their inner toolkit and realize they don’t need to fix or change themselves.

In this episode, Beth Kurland, Ph.D. shares her definition of self-regulation, and sheds light on how both parents and their children can benefit from self-regulation practices. Conversely, she addresses the unique challenges parents face when attempting to regulate their nervous system, but stresses the long-term consequences of failing to do so.

Together, Marie and Beth Kurland, Ph.D. delve into the science behind self-regulation, as well as some useful habits to practice on a daily basis. So, whether you’re dealing with daily tantrums or simply want to build a calmer home, tune in to this episode for actionable tips and insights to strengthen your emotional skills — and empower your kids to do the same!

Follow Beth Kurland, Ph.D.’s work: https://bethkurland.com/

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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In this episode of Raising Parents we dive into the topic of vision and how screen time, among other factors, can affect this. Guest Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. joins host Sarah Stancombe to explain the most common issues he sees in his clinic, and the changes he has observed over his career.

Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. graduated from the University of Montreal School of Optometry in 1986, where he also obtained his Master’s Degree in physiological optics. He also graduated in public health from the National School of Public Administration in Montreal in 2006. He has been a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry since 1989, and Cornea and Contact Lens Diplomate since 1994. He is also Fellow of the scleral Contact Lens Organization since 2010 and Fellow of the British Contact Lens Association since 2013.

Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. is also a professor and practices at the University of Montreal since 2001, as the chief of the contact lens department. He also treats anterior segment diseases, and for more than 10 years was a visiting professor at Paris-Sud University. 

Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals as well as professional reviews. He is an author of more than 35 chapters of books edited in France. He has been invited to speak in Europe, Asia, and the US, and is a regular speaker at American Academy of Optometry and European Academy of Optometry meetings. Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. is also the current president of the College of Optometrists of Quebec.

In this episode, Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. explains how there are a multitude of factors affecting children’s eyesight today - not just using screens, but the distance at which they read and complete other activities, and the frequency at which they spend time outdoors. Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. recommends parents show children a good example, as they will watch and imitate behaviors. 

Together, Sarah and Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS. discuss the way vision affects so many other aspects of life, such as the other senses, interpreting the world around you, and behavior such as concentration. Around 25% of the brain is involved in visual processing, so there is no wonder it affects so many different areas of life. 

University of Montreal profile: https://recherche.umontreal.ca/english/our-researchers/professors-directory/researcher/is/in14701/

Connect with Dr. Langis Michaud OD. MS.'s via the following platforms:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-langis-michaud-a958771/ 

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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Navigating the daily ups and downs of raising children can be challenging — especially when big emotions and stress take the center stage. This week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella consults clinical psychologist Beth Kurland, Ph.D. on the ins and outs of self-regulation for parents, and how it can benefit a child’s well-being.

Passionate about teaching mindfulness-informed practices and mind-body strategies, Beth Kurland, Ph.D. is a mind-body coach, author of four award-winning books, and a TEDx and public speaker to boot. Beth Kurland, Ph.D. is also the proud creator of the Well-Being Toolkit online program, and has created four audio courses to help people reduce stress, awaken to their fullest life, and set heartfelt intentions that stick. Additionally, Beth Kurland, Ph.D. offers individual and group coaching to help people discover their inner toolkit and realize they don’t need to fix or change themselves.

In this episode, Beth Kurland, Ph.D. shares her definition of self-regulation, and sheds light on how both parents and their children can benefit from self-regulation practices. Conversely, she addresses the unique challenges parents face when attempting to regulate their nervous system, but stresses the long-term consequences of failing to do so.

Together, Marie and Beth Kurland, Ph.D. delve into the science behind self-regulation, as well as some useful habits to practice on a daily basis. So, whether you’re dealing with daily tantrums or simply want to build a calmer home, tune in to this episode for actionable tips and insights to strengthen your emotional skills — and empower your kids to do the same!

Follow Beth Kurland, Ph.D.’s work: https://bethkurland.com/

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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In this episode, host Sarah Stancombe talks with Educational Psychology expert Rachael Cody, Ph.D. about self-discovery, values, identity, and future planning—and why these concepts are essential for children and students.

Rachael Cody, Ph.D., who holds a PhD from the University of Connecticut and is currently a postdoctoral scholar at Oregon State University, has researched giftedness, student resilience, study strategies, and how students make major life or academic decisions.

She explains the importance of agency—a child’s ability to feel in control of their environment. Agenic opportunities help prepare children for adulthood and often show up as boundary-pushing or confidently making different choices from peers.

Sarah and Rachael Cody, Ph.D. also explore the many factors that influence students to change majors or career paths, from professors to media to peer stories. They highlight how parents can support these moments with open, understanding conversations.

Finally, Rachael Cody, Ph.D. shares ways parents can nurture their child’s values—by recognizing strengths, celebrating learning through mistakes, and noticing acts of empathy.

View Rachael Cody, Ph.D.’s work on Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=slGsTzAAAAAJ&hl=en

View Rachael Cody, Ph.D.’s work on The Conversation: https://theconversation.com/profiles/rachael-cody-1555983

Connect with Rachael Cody, Ph.D. on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-cody-phd-866b9521b

Works referenced by Rachael Cody, Ph.D. in this episode:

Matusov, E., von Duyke, K., & Kayumova, S. (2016). Mapping concepts of agency in educational contexts. Integrative Psychological and Behavioral Science, 50(3), 420–446. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-015-9336-0

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs. 

Explore LMSL at https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/ and visit http://lo.lmsl.net for additional information about Longevity Science Labs.

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Every smile, giggle, and tear tells a story about your baby’s emotional world. So, this week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews psychology professor Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D., who specializes in infant and child development, on the fascinating journey of emotional development in infants.

A professor and chair of psychology at Rutgers University in Newark, Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D. has conducted research focusing on human behavioral responses to emotionally valanced stimuli. More specifically, Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D.’s research examines how early perceptual biases for threat contribute to maladaptive avoidance behaviors, such as those associated with the development of fear and anxiety, and how cognition contributes to children’s learning of adaptive avoidance responses, such as avoidance of contagious people or contaminated objects.

In this episode, Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D. sheds light on the role of an infant’s temperament and environment in their emotional development journey, revealing the pertinence of a primary caregiver’s emotional expression on their development. Additionally, Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D. shares more about the very first emotional responses to expect from infants, and when to expect them.

Together, Marie and Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D. answer the internet’s biggest questions about emotional development in infants — from realistic developmental milestones, to whether infants understand emotions concretely or reflectively. So, whether you’re a new parent or simply fascinated by early childhood development, tune in to this episode for science-backed insights and real-world advice to help you support your baby’s emotional growth — one loving interaction at a time!

Follow Vanessa LoBue, Ph.D.’s work: https://www.childstudycenter-rutgers.com/

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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Strong, healthy partnerships don’t just benefit the adults — they serve as a model for, and shape the lives of, children, too. This week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews psychotherapist Kara Hoppe MA, MFT to learn more about how stronger partnerships make for better parenting.

Boasting over a decade of experience, Kara Hoppe MA, MFT offers psychotherapy with a relational, inclusive approach. In her psychotherapy practice, Kara Hoppe MA, MFT works with individuals and couples toward healing, growing, and becoming grounded. With a strong passion for helping parents partner better, Kara Hoppe MA, MFT is also the co-author of the book ‘Baby Bomb: A Relationship Survival Guide for New Parents’. She now offers couples coaching, as well as workshops and retreats, based on her book.

In this episode, Kara Hoppe MA, MFT sheds light on the various ways in which the quality of a partnership between parents influences their effectiveness as parents. In addition, Kara Hoppe MA, MFT highlights some of the biggest challenges couples face as parents, and offers advice for navigating parental differences and disagreements.

Together, Marie and Kara Hoppe MA, MFT explore practical habits and exercises for strengthening intimacy in parent-partner relationships, from self-care and quality time, to active listening. So, if you’re ready to level up your parenting, tune in this week for an insightful discussion packed with actionable tips and fresh perspectives!

Follow Kara Hoppe MA, MFT’s work: https://www.karahoppe.com/

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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Every child deserves the freedom to be their true self. But for many, childhood can be clouded by bullying — either as victims, or those labeled as ‘bullies’. This week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella consults counselor Andrea Mathews to find out what causes some children to adopt a bully identity, how it intersects with authenticity, and what parents can do to help them stay true to themselves while navigating social dynamics.

Andrea Mathews has over 30 years of experience as a practitioner and supervisor of others practicing in the Mental Health field, having held roles as a counselor, family therapist, program director, clinical director, and clinical consultant. For the past 23 years, Andrea Mathews has been running a thriving solo private practice in Birmingham, Alabama, where she offers both transpersonal and cognitive therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups.

In this episode, Andrea Mathews sheds light on what it means to adopt a ‘bully identity’ and reveals that poor self-concept is a key underlying factor — among others — that contributes to bullying behaviors. Additionally, Andrea Mathews asserts the importance of staying up to date on a child’s behavior and performance at school, and offers actionable advice for intervening when things go awry.

Together, Marie and Andrea Mathews delve into important habits to practice for nurturing self-esteem, both for parents and children. So, tune in to this episode and help your family discover the strength that comes from living authentically, even in the face of adversity!

Follow Andrea Mathews’ work: 

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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Introducing solid foods is a transformative milestone in an infant’s growth. This week on Raising Parents: The Parenting Science Insights Podcast, host Marie Stella interviews nutrition education consultant Rachel Schichtl for advice on incorporating solid foods into an infant’s diet, and the nutritional benefits it offers.

A registered dietitian and nutritionist, Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND possesses a PhD in family and consumer sciences education, and has been inducted as a fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Currently, Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND is a nutrition education consultant, working with several universities providing course creation, assessment writing, and adjunct teaching, including as a subject matter expert in infant and childhood nutrition. So far, Rachel’s research has primarily focused on community-focused issues such as access to healthy foods, food insecurity, and nutrition education.

In this episode, Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND sheds light on the importance of nutrition and solid foods in an infant’s health and development, revealing that solid foods offer not only nutritional benefits, but also allow infants to develop social, motor, and exploratory skills. In addition, Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND elaborates on the biggest misconceptions about solid foods in an infant’s diet, and shares advice for parents faced with picky eating and allergy challenges.

Together, Marie and Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND delve into the most essential food groups for an infant’s diet, and discuss practical daily habits for incorporating solid foods. So, whether you’re a new parent or want to refresh your knowledge, tune in to this episode for research-backed advice and practical tips to guide your baby’s introduction to solid foods!

Follow Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND's work: https://uca.edu/nfs/facultystaff/rac

Connect with Rachel Schichtl Ph.D., RD, CFCS, FAND via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-schichtl-phd-rd-cfcs-fand-4817b372/

Produced by the Parenting Science Labs, a division of LMSL, the Life Management Science Labs.

Explore LMSL https://lifemanagementsciencelabs.com/  and visit http://pa.lmsl.net/  for further information about Parenting Science Labs.

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