The Science of Parenting

This episode highlights how parents can transition from strict control to authoritative guidance by focusing on connection and understanding the underlying systems within modern games. By utilizing natural break points for boundaries and showing genuine interest in their child's play, families can replace constant conflict with better communication and mutual trust.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

While many parents rely on ESRB ratings to judge a game's safety, these ratings primarily evaluate visual content rather than the underlying systems that drive spending and social interaction. By understanding how modern games function as digital marketplaces and social networks, parents can move from reacting with uncertainty to providing proactive guidance for their children.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

This episode explores how digital gaming has evolved from a finished product into a continuous, living environment that continues whether a child is logged in or not. Doctoral candidate and researcher Soyoung Park joins the show to break down the four structural changes in modern games—including monetization and social obligations—that often lead to tension and conflict within families.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

This wrap-up gathers reflections and practical tools from this season’s guests, highlighting joys and challenges from newborns to adults. Featuring “Across the Ages” insights, we share bonus answers on common hurdles and go-to strategies from each stage to bring our research-and-reality theme full circle.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

We explore what it means to parent in adulthood’s most ambiguous stage—when children are grown but still growing. Extension educator and mom-of-five Cindy Thompson joins us to share insights on boundaries, financial support, and staying connected as adult children find their own way.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

We explore fueling growth and movement in the pre-teen and teenage years—how nutrition and activity support rapidly changing bodies and brains. Registered dietitian Jody Gatewood shares practical tips on breakfast, key nutrients, affordable fruits/veggies, 60-minute daily movement, and family routines that build healthy, stress-free habits.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

We dive into raising STEM-ready kids by encouraging exploration and innovation at school, after school, and at home. NASA Iowa Space Grant Director Sara Nelson unpacks integrated STEM and project-based learning, plus what to look for in quality programs.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

We connect messy play to meaningful learning, showing how everyday curiosity builds science, technology, engineering, and math skills. From cardboard ramps to kitchen experiments, discover simple ways to weave STEM at home into play without turning it into schoolwork.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

Exploration and safety for little movers take center stage as we walk room-by-room through simple, research-based ways to prevent injuries at home. From outlets and cords to water temps, gates, tip-overs, and creating safe spaces to explore, you’ll learn practical steps that protect without stifling curiosity.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal

From diapers to development, we unpack what parenting in the newborn stage really looks like—routines, safety, sleep, feeding, and self-care. With research-based tips and real-life stories, you’ll learn simple ways to support healthy growth while balancing older siblings and your own wellbeing.

Support the show

Send us an email: [email protected].
Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal