In this episode, Jon tackles one of the most anxiety-provoking parenting topics: kids and secrets—and why secrecy can feel so loaded for both children and parents. Centered on the idea that the most powerful word in a child’s world isn’t rule or consequence, but promise, he explains how secrecy hooks into loyalty, safety, and attachment long before kids have the brain development to navigate those tensions.

Parents will walk away with clarity on the difference between privacy, surprises, and secrets, insight into why “just tell me” often backfires, and a calmer, more protective framework for becoming the kind of adult their child wants to tell when something really matters.

Send a text

Support the show

Links to help you and me:

• To support the Podcast, Subscribe on Substack
• Get Jon’s Top Five Emotional Regulation Games
• Get Jon’s Book Punishment-Free Parenting
• Preorder Jon’s Children’s Book Set My Feelings Free
• Follow Whole Parent on
  • Instagram,
  • Tiktok,
  • Facebook,
  • Youtube