During this episode, our Guest Expert, Mark Sanders, joins Jacqueline and Robin for an intriguing conversation about the impact of the father-son relationship and how that relationship impacts families and our communities. Learning what effects can occur due to the absence of this relationship or the result of a father who is neglectful, abusive, emotionally, or physically harmful may startle listeners. Tune in to hear how the connection or relationship, if not intact, can impact cognitive, social, and emotional development in early childhood, as well as further relationships in the child’s life. This impact can affect the son as a child and as an adult, particularly how the son learns to treat others, such as significant others, if healing does not occur. Mark will also share some ways to bring emotional relief and recovery for a father-son relationship that has been fractured, as well as for the individuals together and separately.

Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, is an international speaker, trainer, and consultant in behavioral health whose work has reached thousands throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, the Caribbean, and the British Islands.

 Mark is the author of five books which focus on behavioral health. Recent writings include Slipping through the Cracks: Intervention Strategies for Clients with Multiple Addictions and Disorders, Recovery Management: and Relationship Detox: Helping Clients Develop Healthy Relationships in Recovery. He has had two stories published in the New York Times best-selling book series, Chicken Soup for the Soul. Mark has been a certified addiction counselor for 34 years. He has received numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Illinois Addiction Counselor Certification Board and the Barbara Bacon Award for outstanding contributions to the Social Work profession as a Loyola University of Chicago Alumni.

 Mark is co-founder of Serenity Academy of Chicago, the only recovery high school in Illinois. He is past president of the board of the Illinois Chapter of NAADAC. He has had a 30-year career as a university educator, having taught at the University of Chicago, Illinois State University, Illinois School of Professional Psychology, and Loyola University of Chicago, School of Social Work.

For more information about Mark, please visit his website

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Families often ask us, what are some ways to promote confidence in our children? This week's guest expert, Master Jamie Neibling, a Fourth Degree Black Belt and a Middle School teacher shares with listeners how martial arts and some of its practices can help build confidence and resilience in children and adults alike. Master Neibling also points out how martial arts can improve students' mental and physical health while working on focus and concentration. Listeners will gain tips that can be used at home and an increased understanding of the different types of martial arts and the meaning behind the practices.

Dr. Jamie Neibling, Ed.D.

Instructor at Hero Martial Arts, Kansas City, Missouri, 4th Degree Kukkiwon Certified Black Belt Master. Dr. Jamie Neibling has been a student of martial arts for more than fifteen years, primarily training in the arts of Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, and Tai Chi. She trains and instructs under Chief Master Michael J. Butler at Hero Martial Arts in Kansas City, MO. Jamie earned the title of Master in 2018. As a Master, she assists with teaching classes for students ages 4-76, writing curriculum, developing the Hero Martial Arts character education program, hosting self-defense seminars in the community, and assisting with the leadership development programs for youth and adults.

Master Neibling is also a public school educator, with more than twenty years of experience as a middle school science teacher and Instructional Coach. She has her doctorate in Instructional Leadership and is always seeking new ways to learn and grow - for herself and to advance the

learning of others. Master Neibling finds great satisfaction in both educational and martial arts coaching as she inspires and encourages others to set and achieve goals, becoming stronger in mind, body, and spirit.

For more information or to contact Master Jamie Neibling, please visit the Hero Martial Arts website: www.kckarate.com.

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Children with ADHD minds are often experienced as bright, adventurous, and creative. In contrast, parenting a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming, even burdensome at times, as ADHD can include everything from creativity to defiance. While outsiders may view the child as disobedient, out of control, or disrespectful; the invisibility of the disorder can lead to increased frustration in parenting for both the child and the parent.

This week’s guest expert, Angela Bonneville, LCSW, has extensive experience and knowledge as a clinician and a parent of a child with ADHD. Angela covers it all, from parenting tips to discipline. At the same time, she reminds listeners that it is not about making a child conform but rather about using resources and creating an environment where the child thrives and learns to succeed based on individual strengths. Angela shares ways to help children navigate a world that is not always friendly towards a neurodivergent child. Talking openly about this topic helps bring awareness, as well as autonomy and confidence for the child.

Angela Bonneville, LCSW | Therapy for Police (firstresponderswellnesscenter.com)

Resources

We know that all children will struggle at different points in their lives. As a parent, it can be scary when your child is dealing with behavioral, emotional, or mental health-related concerns. In this episode, Jackie and Robin discuss how to recognize when your child may need extra support, as well as ways to navigate these challenges and where to turn for resources and support. 

Rest assured, if your family is facing challenges, you are not alone; there is help out there. “Just because a child is struggling, does not mean that they will not be successful, rather the struggle may help them become more resilient.”

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The title of this episode is a quote from the hit Broadway show Hamilton. We agree with Burr when he suggests, "Talk Less, Smile More" to Hamilton. This strategy works for parents too!

Guest expert Dr. Melissa Katz joins us for an intriguing discussion about approaches parents can use to foster deeper and more meaningful connections with their children. Dr. Katz recognizes that observing and trying to understand the why behind a child's behavior may provide some insight into the child's emotional state and needs. Listeners

Center For Emotional Wellness Northwest | Dr. Melissa Katz

Email: [email protected] 

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Jacqueline and Robin are excited to launch Season Two!

Families have been writing-in all summer, mentioning their favorite episodes, as well as to make requests for topics they would like to hear. We have an amazing lineup of guest experts and are thrilled to unveil some surprises throughout the season. STAY TUNED.

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A note to our listeners.

 Forty-seven episodes later, nearly 3800 listens, we have had guest experts and listeners from all over the United States and worldwide. We have had so much fun working with one another, interviewing guests, recording episodes, and, most of all, hearing from our listeners. We have made several blunders along the way, but just like parenting, success is not measured by perfection. We are so appreciative of all of the support we have received.

 We are so grateful to our listeners and our guest experts. We truly love our work with families and look forward to launching season 2 on August 7, 2023. We will take a break until August to bring listeners new surprises, guest experts, and topics. We plan to spend some time writing to continue building our resource library and focus on self-care and fun. Since our launch, we have not skipped a beat this past year, dropping new episodes each week. This break will also be a time for listeners to catch up on episodes they may have missed, but as one parent noted, to relisten to those episodes that really spoke to them. Season 2 will be nothing short of amazing.

 In the meantime, follow us on social media to stay up to date with our latest news and updates. Have a wonderful summer – we will see you soon! Robin & Jackie

As parents, we are often ready to let go of some scheduling as summer approaches. The good news is there are fun ways to build in routine while encouraging our children to gain confidence, develop more social connections, and return to school feeling more physically and emotionally healthy. We share some fun stories, tips, and guidance to build memories that will last a lifetime.

Do not forget to send us "What does Successful Parenting mean to you?" or a question you would like us to answer. Please see our email below; remember, we would love to hear a recording of your question or answer! Your recording might get played on a future podcast.

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Tips for Parents to Help Motivate Their Children while Building Confidence. 

Lauren Bilbrey, MA, LBS1, founder of The Learning Lab, Clinical Supervisor of Education at Ascension-Alexian Brothers Behavioral Medicine. 

  We often hear parents say, “My child is bright, just not that motivated.”

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Lauren Bilbrey, focusing on ways parents can help their children increase self-confidence while motivating their child(ren) to engage and reach their potential in school, activities, and life.

Lauren believes there are two rules to live by, invest in yourself and make a difference in the lives of others. Lauren has spent her career motivating students and promoting active school and home engagement. Lauren provides parents tips for supporting their children with healthy school work habits. In addition, she discusses ways to help students gain confidence in themselves, learn how to deal with frustrations, develop self-advocacy skills, and much much more. You will not want to miss this episode.

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Neurodiversity is the concept that all humans vary in their neurocognitive ability. While we know that each child will have unique strengths and areas of weakness, the term neurodivergent describes a child who processes information differently.

As many of us know, parenting can be challenging enough, but for parents raising a neurodiverse child, there can be some extra stressors. Sometimes, two parents may have differing views about neurodiversity; their approach might look different even though they want the best for their children. In fact, stress often comes from parents seeking the most current research, resources, and services. In these times, parents may feel there is insufficient information, or it may be conflictual. Our guest expert this week, Dr. Lauren McArdle, understands that as parents, we want to know how to best support and advocate for our children, especially when they struggle. In addition, she also advises where to gather resources and places to venture with caution. During this episode, Dr. Lauren McArdle provides listeners with advice and guidance regarding ways to receive assessments and interventions early, as well as ways to connect with resources within your child’s community and school systems. Dr. McArdle is an expert but also a parent herself of a neurodiverse child. She will leave listeners with hope, resources, and key tips that will provide guidance and support.

Dr. Lauren McArdle, Ph.D.

Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, Lake Zurich CUSD 95

Lauren McArdle is the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services for Lake Zurich CUSD 95. Lauren has her doctorate in school psychology, and additionally has her clinical psychology license. In addition to her work in schools, Lauren previously operated a private practice where she supported a wide range of social-emotional needs (including challenges with substance use). Lauren's office currently oversees all social-emotional initiatives within the District, which includes identifying mental health needs of students.

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