Single Parenting Reset Show: For Solo Parents of Tweens and Teens — Manage Behavior Problems, Reduce Screen Time & Improve Communication

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

Would you recognize the early signs of substance use in your tween or teen?

In this episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, talks with substance use specialist Richard Capriola, author of The Addicted Child, about how to spot, address, and respond to signs of drug or alcohol use in adolescents. Richard shares warning signs to watch for, explains the differences between normal developmental changes and concerning behaviors, and offers strategies for talking to your kids about substances in age-appropriate, brain-based ways. They also discuss the role of peer pressure, emotional health, and family self-care in prevention and recovery.

• Learn how to identify early warning signs of substance use in your child.
• Discover effective ways to talk with tweens and teens about the risks of drugs and alcohol.
• Understand how to respond — and where to turn for help — if your child is using substances.

Press play for practical tools, expert insight, and hope for families facing the challenge of adolescent substance use.

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Download the Tech Reset Agreement

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset Strategy Session”: Parent Reset Strategy Session

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication

Tess Connolly LCSW talks to Kiera Gray a teenager about what it is like being a teen and discusses her blog, Inside the Teen Mind. 

• Kiera tells us about her course “Inside the Teen Mind” that she has created. Her course is intended to help parents have better relationships with their teens.  
• Kiera and Tess discuss the three areas that Kiera feels that are important to help parents communicate with their tweens and teens. 
• Kiera offers some really good tips on how we use dialogue with their tweens and teens to improve communications with our tweens and teens. 
• Tess and Kiera discuss social media and ways that we can support our tweens and teens navigate this part of their lives.
• Tess and Kiera discuss ways that we can have good parent/child relationships through our children's teenage years.
• Kiera is most grateful for the opportunity to share her message and hopefully help some parents and teens with their relationships. 

www.insidetheteenmind.com

Instagram - inside.the.teen.mind

⭐️Join Tess’ weekly parenting  journal here:  Mindful Kids and Families Journal 

(Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here: [email protected]

Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

Need 1:1 Support?  Book right here to connect with Tess for a 20 minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: https://calendly.com/mindfulkidsandfamilies/20discover

💫Want support from other parents in an authentic community? Get on the Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist here: The Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist- next openings are in late February 2022🙌

Tess Connolly LCSW talks with Richard Capriola, Substance use specialist and the author of the book “The Addicted Child” and they discuss substance abuse in adolescence. 

• Richard talks about his background in Education and Mental health and tells us the story of how his book came about and shares with us his passion of sharing it with parents to help them in their struggles when they are faced with dealing with the trauma of their child facing substance abuse.
• Richard shares with us the most concerning things that he has found in his career of working with children that have been through substance abuse. 
• Richard tells us what general warning signs that we can look for as parents.
• Tess and Richard discuss ways that you can reach out to your tweens and teens if you see these changes appear. They offer ways that we can decipher the differences in their behaviors of what could be normal changes in behavior for their age or what could be signs that may be more concerning.
• Richard shares ways that we can talk to our children about substance use depending on their age and educating them with the effects that these substances have on their brains. 
• Richard talks about ways that tweens and teens begin taking drugs including peer pressure and underlying emotional issues that children might have. 
• Tess and Richard talk about the issue of parents offering marijuana to their children thinking it is safe because they have found it helpful themselves. 
• Tess and Richard discuss the steps you can take as parents if you find out that your child is using a substance. 
• Richard tells us that within his book he offers guidance and shares resources that can help parents who are faced with their child using a substance.
• Tess and Richard discuss the importance of parents and families taking care of themselves when they are faced with the crisis of their child who is suffering with substance abuse. 
• Tess and Richard discuss the link between substance use and mental health.
• Richard offers a sense of hope and talks about how he has seen how treatment really does work for those who use it.
• Richard shares with us that he is most grateful for the experiences that he has had working with adolescence and the professionals he worked with in The Menninger Clinic and what a blessing it was to see the kids get back to him and see them leading successful lives. 

⭐️Join Tess’ weekly parenting  journal here:  Mindful Kids and Families Journal 

(Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here: [email protected]

Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

Need 1:1 Support?  Book right here to connect with Tess for a 20 minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: https://calendly.com/mindfulkidsandfamilies/20discover

💫Want support from other parents in an authentic community? Get on the Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist here: The Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist- next openings are in February 2022🙌

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

Feeling weighed down by the ongoing stress and uncertainty of family life during the pandemic?

In this episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, shares how “getting back to basics” can help both parents and kids navigate the challenges of pandemic life. From setting aside the news cycle to focusing on sleep, healthy food, fun, and gratitude, Tess offers practical, simple steps to help your family feel more grounded, connected, and resilient during stressful times.

• Learn easy, back-to-basics habits that reduce stress for you and your children.
• Discover how daily gratitude can boost your family’s emotional well-being.
• Understand how small self-care shifts can improve your mental health and parenting.

Press play and find out how a few simple changes can bring more calm, connection, and hope to your family’s daily life.

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Download the Tech Reset Agreement

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset Strategy Session”: Parent Reset Strategy Session

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication

Tess Connolly LCSW talks about ‘Getting “back to basics" with our pandemic stress.’ She acknowledges all of our ongoing stress along with the ongoing changes we are experiencing in our families and some really simple ways to help manage during these times. 

• Tess shares with us about where we are now and the stresses that parents are going through the pandemic.
• Tess talks about our children’s stresses through this time and the worries and anxiety that they are going through. 
• Tess shares with us some things that she is doing with her family to help deal with the stress of the pandemic. 

- She talks about taking a break from watching the news and taking time to be present and relax and care for yourself. 

- Making sure we take time to get ‘back to basics’ with things such as making sure we are getting sleep and eating healthy, drinking water and making sure we are taking time to do something fun and taking care of ourselves and our mental health.

- Finally, practicing gratitude everyday and including your tween or teen in this practice. 

• Finally, Tess shares a poem from Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Monk called  “What seeds are you watering today?” Listen to this episode to hear his inspirational words.

• During this episode we also learn about the masterclass that Tess has coming up in February, about the struggle we face with the use of devices and screen time with our tween and teens.
• Find the link below to join the weekly parenting journal where you will be amongst the first to find out details of the masterclass as they are announced.

⭐️Join Tess’ weekly parenting  journal here:  Mindful Kids and Families Journal 

(Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here: [email protected]

Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

Need 1:1 Support?  Book right here to connect with Tess for a 20 minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: https://calendly.com/mindfulkidsandfamilies/20discover

💫Want support from other parents in an authentic community? Get on the Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist here: The Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist- next openings are in February 2022 🙌

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

Want a parenting approach that builds trust, belonging, and lifelong lessons — step by step?

In this episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, talks with parenting experts Sonja Montiel and Hilary Bilbrey about their “Decided Heart Companioning” technique and the H.E.A.R.T framework: Hold Space, Empty Cup, Assess for Action/Accountability, Review Discussion, and Trust-Building. They break down how to use this method with authenticity, patience, and emotional control so your tween or teen feels truly seen, supported, and empowered.

• Learn the five H.E.A.R.T steps to strengthen connection and belonging in your family.
• Discover how to mentor tweens and teens through challenges without taking over.
• Understand the role of virtue words in shaping positive and lasting communication.

Press play to learn how the H.E.A.R.T method can help you raise confident, connected, and resilient young adults.

Here you can access the PDF file on the virtue words that Sonja and Hilary discussed in the podcast: DHE Virtue Word List and HEART Handout

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Download the Tech Reset Agreement

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset Strategy Session”: Parent Reset Strategy Session

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication

Tess Connolly LCSW talks with Sonja Montiel and Hilary Bilbrey about their decided heart companioning technique that fosters a trusting relationship and a strong sense of belonging between you and your child. 

• Sonja and Hilary share with us about the work they do and share a little bit about their story of how their business came about. 
• Sonja and Hilary explain to us about their technique H.E.A.R.T and what it means. 

H - Hold Space

E - Empty Cup

A - Assess for Action/Accountability

R - Review Discussion

T - Trust-Building 

• Tess, Sonja and Hilary discuss how this technique has to come from the heart and curiosity and be authentic otherwise it will not have the full effect. That parents have to have full control of their emotions before they attempt to take on this method for it to be used effectively. 
• Sonja and Hilary talk about how whilst doing this method it is about practice and being messy and we have to be patient and have forgiveness and hold space for these moments. 
• Sonja and Hilary go through the method and give a brief run down for you offering a taste of their method and what it can bring to your family. They share some tips and strategies that we can use as a family. 

- How to hold space and be receptive to our child’s behavior and mannerisms.

- How to mentor our tween or teen and be as supportive as we can with what they are facing day to day. 

- and how to give them mentorship on ways to deal with the situations that they are going through, helping them learn how to deal with situations for themselves and give them life long lessons to support them into adulthood.                

• Tess, Sonja and Hilary discuss virtue words and the importance of how we use them with our tweens and teens. (please download the pdf below for more information)
• Sonja and Hilary share with Tess how grateful they are to be on the podcast and sharing their method with her audience. They are also grateful for the world stopping for a moment and being given that time to reflect as a family and what they want as a family from each other, something they have noticed which has benefited their parents within their membership.         

Here you can access the PDF file on the virtue words that Sonja and Hilary discussed in the podcast: DHE Virtue Word List and HEART Handout                      

⭐️Join Tess’ weekly parenting  journal here:  Mindful Kids and Families Journal 

(Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here: [email protected]

Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

Need 1:1 Support?  Book right here to connect with Tess for a 20 minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: https://calendly.com/mindfulkidsandfamilies/20discover

💫Want support from other parents in an authentic community? Get on the Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist here: The Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist- next openings are in late January 2022🙌

Here you can access the PDF file on the virtue words that Sonja and Hilary discussed in the podcast Eps Sonja and Hillary (HEART method) - Google Drive

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

Is “I just want my kids to be happy” really enough for raising resilient, well-rounded young adults?

Interest

In this solo episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, reflects on what we truly want for our children beyond the often-given answer of “happiness.” Drawing from her own parenting journey, she explores the essential skills and traits that prepare tweens and teens for real life — from emotional self-regulation and healthy coping strategies to building strong, flexible relationships and embracing their authentic selves.

• Discover why focusing beyond happiness better equips kids for the challenges of adulthood.
• Learn how to model healthy boundaries, vulnerability, and authenticity.
• Understand the role of parent-child relationships in shaping future connections.

Press play to explore how shifting your parenting goals can prepare your kids for a life that’s rich, resilient, and real.

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Download the Tech Reset Agreement

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset Strategy Session”: Parent Reset Strategy Session

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication

Tess Connolly LCSW talks about what we want for our children and how people always mention happiness when answering this question. Tess talks about this being an abstract state and that of course we want our children to be happy but what else do we want for our children apart from happiness?

• Tess explains that often parents answer this question about what they want for their children is ‘happiness.’ But over the years and growth of her son, there are some other areas of focus as we raise our tweens and teens. 
• Tess shares with us that sometimes we have to deal with situations that don't make us happy out in the real world and how she would like for our kids to be curious and go out into the world, away from their family of origin to find out who they are.

• She talks about them having  healthy coping strategies and emotional self-regulation for when times are tough.

• Tess talks about the importance of healthy relationships and that this includes learning to be flexible, have good boundaries in relationships, and the ability to be vulnerable in trusted relationships. And her hope for our kids to know joy and the freedom in being their authentic selves. 

• Tess tells us WHY she does this work of parent coaching and that healthy relationships - particularly the relationship we have with our tweenagers is the model they will take out into the world.  

• She shares some effective ways we can model this behavior through our relationships we have with our children and friends and families.

⭐️Join Tess’ weekly parenting  journal here:  Mindful Kids and Families Journal 

(Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here: [email protected]

Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

Need 1:1 Support?  Book right here to connect with Tess for a 20 minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: https://calendly.com/mindfulkidsandfamilies/20discover

💫Want support from other parents in an authentic community? Get on the Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist here: The Parenting Reset Membership Waitlist- next openings are in late January/ early February 2022🙌 

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

What if sibling rivalry isn’t just a nuisance — but a chance to teach lifelong skills?

In this episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, talks with parenting coach Lalaine Frankel about how sibling rivalry evolves in the tween and teen years — and why your approach needs to evolve too. Lalaine shares her six-step C.R.E.A.T.E. process for guiding families through conflict, the hidden benefits of sibling disagreements, and how to create a family plan for handling disputes that keeps everyone on the same page.

• Learn practical strategies for managing sibling rivalry with tweens and teens.
• Discover how conflict can teach problem-solving, empathy, and boundary-setting.
• Get tips for creating a family plan to resolve disputes consistently and fairly.

Press play to learn how to turn sibling squabbles into opportunities for growth, connection, and stronger family bonds.

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Download the Tech Reset Agreement

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset Strategy Session”: Parent Reset Strategy Session

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication