Reflective Parenting by Curious Neuron

Cindy Hovington, Ph.D.

Parenting shouldn’t be defined by stress, guilt, and self-doubt. Yet for 94% of parents, that’s what our days feel like. As a neuroscientist and mom of three, I know firsthand how easy it is to end the day overwhelmed, wishing you’d been calmer, more present, or more patient with your child. That’s why I created The Reflective Parenting Podcast—a place where we pause, reflect, and discover a new way forward. Join me every Monday as we explore science-backed skills that replace guilt with confidence and stress with calm so that you, and your child, can thrive. Some weeks, I’ll share my own reflections as a parent who’s still learning, just like you. Other weeks, I’ll bring in experts from psychology, neuroscience, and beyond to dive into the research and uncover practical ways we can make parenting feel lighter, less overwhelming, and more connected. Parents don’t need more advice or another education-heavy podcast. What they truly need is a space to pause, reflect, and grow. Reflective parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about noticing what drives our reactions and choosing to show up with intention. This podcast is about building resilience, trust, and connection, and joining a movement to reimagine what parenting can feel like—for us, and for our kids.Subscribe today not to miss next week's episode!  Join the private group on Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast/ Record your story or question: https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcastJoin the Reflective Parenting Program today! Start our science-backed course, join our weekly calls or get 1:1 support with Cindy below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Follow us on Instagram @curious_neuron or Facebook @curiousneuron

  1. -3 J

    How to connect with a child that shuts you down (without losing your cool)

    Send us a text This episode will change how you see your child’s moods and how you respond to them. If you’ve ever tiptoed around your child in the morning, worried the “wrong” cereal bowl or shirt will set off a meltdown, this conversation is for you. Joining me is Dr. Alex Reed, pediatric clinical psychologist and mom of two, who has spent years helping families understand temperament, moodiness, and emotional regulation. Together, we pull back the curtain on what’s really happening when your child seems unpredictable, reactive, or even says, “I hate you.” You’ll learn: Why some kids seem “moody” from the start and what temperament really means.The hidden role of shame in meltdowns (and why your child pushes you away even when you’re trying to help).The front door vs. side door approach and why lecturing, correcting, or over-validating often backfires.The science-backed strategies that actually work: modeling, storytelling, and overhearing.How to set calm, clear boundaries without escalating the conflict.The #1 skill you must practice first is your own regulation.This is not about quick fixes or “tricks” for behavior. It’s about raising kids who can handle their big feelings, and parents who can show up with confidence, calm, and connection—even in the hardest moments. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a new way to think about your child’s temperament, and practical steps you can use today to stop walking on eggshells. Join the conversation about this episode on our private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10172344324640258&set=gm.1942367649950164&idorvanity=677093716477570 Read a science article about this: Predicting child problem behaviour at school age: The role of maternal sensitivity, child temperament and theory of mind Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    1 h 9 min
  2. 8 SEPT.

    How music can lower stress and anxiety (for you and your child)

    Send us a text This episode will inspire you to see music as a powerful tool for connection, healing, and everyday parenting. It’s an invitation to play, sing, and create moments of joy with your children while learning how music can also soothe anxiety, ease transitions, and strengthen emotional bonds. And it’s a behind-the-scenes look at the real science of music therapy – far beyond entertainment and how it can transform lives across every age and stage. Joining me is Tanya Lavoie, a certified music therapist who works in pediatric hospitals and specializes in using music to support regulation, pain management, and emotional expression. In this heartfelt and practical conversation, Tanya shares how her work combines neuroscience, creativity, and compassion to help children and families thrive. You’ll learn: Why music therapy works, and the brain science behind itHow to use music at home to motivate your child, calm meltdowns, and create playful routinesSimple steps to build meaningful playlists for relaxation or focusThe truth about common music therapy myths (including the “Mozart Effect”)How to find a qualified music therapist in your areaIf you’re ready to bring more connection, calm, and joy into your home and discover the therapeutic power of music this conversation is your starting point. Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    51 min
  3. 11 AOÛT

    Is my child ready for kindergarten readiness? (emotionally)

    Send us a text Is your child ready for kindergarten from an emotional perspective? In this episode, Cindy discusses the emotional aspects of kindergarten readiness, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in children. She introduces the tripartite model of parental socialization, which highlights how parents' emotional coping, parenting styles, and conflict resolution impact children's emotional development. The conversation also covers practical strategies for parents to support their children's emotional growth and prepare them for school. Takeaways Kindergarten readiness involves emotional preparation, not just academic skills.Self-awareness is crucial for coping with emotions.Parents should model emotional regulation for their children.Understanding triggers helps children manage their emotions better.Emotional intelligence is built through conversations about feelings.Expecting children to be emotionally perfect is unrealistic.Parental emotional coping styles influence children's behavior.Setting boundaries while being sensitive is key in parenting.Conflict resolution in the home teaches children about emotions.Curiosity and relationship-building are essential for school readiness.Don't miss these podcast episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000720552759 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000715100953 Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    35 min
  4. 4 AOÛT

    A science-based tool that helps you shift your perspective (and build your resilience)

    Send us a text In this episode, we explore the idea of “shifting your lens” — a powerful metaphor grounded in science that helps parents understand how their interpretation of a situation shapes their emotional response. Drawing on the work of psychologist James Gross and his research on cognitive reappraisal, we break down how the lens you’re wearing (like blame, control, or shame) can fuel conflict and dysregulation, especially in moments of parenting stress. You’ll learn how to identify the lens you’re in, how to shift your lens to something more helpful (like curiosity or compassion), and how this shift not only supports your own regulation but also helps you model emotional intelligence for your child. Real-life parenting examples, practical tips, and reflection prompts will help you bring this tool into everyday moments even when things get messy. Read our blog post here: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/08/03/how-to-shift-your-lens-and-stay-calm-in-parenting-conflicts/ Read a science article: For Whom and What Does Cognitive Reappraisal Help? A Prospective Study Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TOURlBqtmIc Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    27 min
  5. 28 JUILL.

    Can Parenting Style Differences Hurt Your Child? Here's What the Science Says

    Send us a text Are you following positive parenting but your partner is more authoritarian?  This is a common question I receive from parents and so in today's episode, I share a study that was fascinating to me.  In this solo episode, I talk about how you can address parenting differences with your partner without making them feel bad, I chat about the different parenting style and I answer the question of what the long-term impacts are to having different parenting styles.  Source: Differences in perceived parenting style between mothers and fathers: Implications for child outcomes and marital conflict. Read a blog post about this study on our website: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/07/28/can-parenting-style-differences-hurt-your-child-heres-what-the-science-says/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wpl1LkhK4B4?si=AfrHaOtasFd2529q Listen to this podcast to learn more about parenting styles: Nurturing a secure attachment with reflection skills The Science of Modern Parenting Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    32 min
  6. 21 JUILL.

    How does your child respond to stress in conflict?

    Send us a text Have you ever asked yourself this question?  In today's episode, I give you a different perspective on your child's behaviour....understanding how they respond to conflict. This is important because it impacts their behaviour in conflict (which is what we see when they "misbehave").  I hope you enjoy this solo episode! SOURCES: I look back at my conversation with Dr. Marc Brackett as well. You can listen to this episode below in case you missed it: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000640865943 Below is the article I mention "RSA reactivity to parent-child conflict as a predictor of dysregulated emotion and behavior in daily life"  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7908813/pdf/nihms-1668983.pdf The blog post related to this podcast: https://curiousneuron.com/2025/07/20/child-conflict-stress-response-behaviour/ Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NwH988IDIi4 Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    20 min
  7. 14 JUILL.

    I wish I were a more playful parent

    Send us a text In this episode of the Reflective Parenting Podcast, host Cindy Hovington delves into the transformative power of playfulness in parenting. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, Cindy explores how embracing play can enhance parent-child connections and support emotional development.  Discover practical tips to integrate play into daily routines, even when it feels challenging, and learn why joining your child's world can be a game-changer. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that encourages parents to let go of guilt and embrace the joy of play. Use CODE: PODCAST15 to get 15% off your first 3 months of the Reflective Parenting Club Resources: Study: Quality and Quantity: A Study of Father–Toddler Rough-and-Tumble Play Listen to my interview with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Amy Chiu: Supporting Emotional Development Through Play with Tina What happens when we let kids be kids with Amy Record your message to ask a question, share an insight or give us some feedback! https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcast Start your 7 day FREE trial of the Reflective Parent Club A science-based course that helps you learn how to cope with emotions, stress, your child's behaviour and your partner! Plus, a weekly coaching call to help you build awareness and practice new tools. https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Join our FREE Monthly Parental Well-Being Webinar Series: https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/989145490b Grab a Free Resource: FREE Workbook: Staying Calm When Your Child Isn’t: A Parent’s Guide to Triggers and Emotions FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing Email: info@curiousneuron.com 📸 Instagram | 🧠 Reflective Parenting Facebook Group 🎥 Watch this episode on...

    24 min
4,9
sur 5
145 notes

À propos

Parenting shouldn’t be defined by stress, guilt, and self-doubt. Yet for 94% of parents, that’s what our days feel like. As a neuroscientist and mom of three, I know firsthand how easy it is to end the day overwhelmed, wishing you’d been calmer, more present, or more patient with your child. That’s why I created The Reflective Parenting Podcast—a place where we pause, reflect, and discover a new way forward. Join me every Monday as we explore science-backed skills that replace guilt with confidence and stress with calm so that you, and your child, can thrive. Some weeks, I’ll share my own reflections as a parent who’s still learning, just like you. Other weeks, I’ll bring in experts from psychology, neuroscience, and beyond to dive into the research and uncover practical ways we can make parenting feel lighter, less overwhelming, and more connected. Parents don’t need more advice or another education-heavy podcast. What they truly need is a space to pause, reflect, and grow. Reflective parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about noticing what drives our reactions and choosing to show up with intention. This podcast is about building resilience, trust, and connection, and joining a movement to reimagine what parenting can feel like—for us, and for our kids.Subscribe today not to miss next week's episode!  Join the private group on Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast/ Record your story or question: https://www.speakpipe.com/ReflectiveParentingPodcastJoin the Reflective Parenting Program today! Start our science-backed course, join our weekly calls or get 1:1 support with Cindy below: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/ Follow us on Instagram @curious_neuron or Facebook @curiousneuron

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