Parenting Ed-Ventures

Parenting Ed-Ventures
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🎙 A Tutor Teach podcast that aims to be a beacon of support and knowledge for those navigating the intricate landscape of parenting! 🎧 Listen now!

  1. 2 days ago

    Teen Driving Safety: A Mother’s Mission to Save Lives on the Road and The Seat Belt Conversation Every Parent Needs

    Today, Lara sits down with Brenda McGaw, the founder and Executive Director of Shea-Lynn’s Butterfly Effect—a St. Albert–based charity created in memory of her daughter, Shea-Lynn, and devoted to helping young people (and all of us) make safer choices on the road. What began as unimaginable loss has become a powerful mission rooted in one simple message: somebody loves you and wants you home safe. This episode is a little different than what we usually share. It’s heavier—but it’s also full of purpose. Brenda shares her story with honesty, courage, and a deep desire to turn grief into something that protects other families from the same heartbreak. We talk about the ripple effect of small decisions, and how something as routine as putting on a seat belt can change everything in seconds. Brenda’s work is about awareness, not fear. Through school and community presentations, advocacy, and outreach, Shea-Lynn’s Butterfly Effect helps youth and families understand the life-saving importance of buckling up—every time, the whole time—and making safer choices when driving or riding with friends. If you’re a parent of a teen (or soon-to-be driver), this conversation will stay with you—for all the right reasons. It’s an invitation to pause, to talk with your kids, and to remember that even the smallest habits can carry the biggest love. In today’s episode, we cover: Brenda’s story and how Shea-Lynn’s legacy became a mission to protect others Why small “everyday” choices—like seat belts—can have lifelong consequences How to start meaningful conversations with teens about safety without triggering shutdownThe power of community education, advocacy, and youth engagement A reminder every young person needs to hear: somebody loves you and wants you home safe Meet our guest: Brenda McGaw is the founder and Executive Director of Shea-Lynn’s Butterfly Effect, a registered not-for-profit based in St. Albert, Alberta, dedicated to increasing seat belt compliance through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Find more of Brenda’s work / Shea-Lynn’s Butterfly Effect Website (our story, programs, booking, ways to help): https://www.slbutterflyeffect.org/ Our Story: https://www.slbutterflyeffect.org/about Mission & team: https://www.slbutterflyeffect.org/mission Donate: https://www.slbutterflyeffect.org/donate-today Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/ Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    50 min

  2. 19 May

    Does My Child Have ADHD? Common Signs Parents Miss & Next Steps for Home + School Support

    Today, Lara sits down with Rachel Rogers (she/her) to unpack what ADHD really is—and why so many kids (and parents) struggle even when they’re trying their best. Rachel spent decades with Edmonton Public Schools as a teacher, school counsellor, and school psychologist, and after retiring in 2020, she continued supporting families through private practice, working closely with parents of children with ADHD. She’s also the founder and current Interim President of the ADHD Association of Greater Edmonton, which she started in 2009 after her own ADHD diagnosis, and she remains a passionate advocate for informed, compassionate support.(https://adhdedmonton.com/about-2/) In today’s episode, Rachel helps us separate fact from fiction. We explore what ADHD is and what it isn’t, the signs that often get missed (especially when kids are masking or “coping” quietly), and why ADHD can look very different from one child to the next. Rachel walks parents through how ADHD can evolve over time, how it can show up differently in boys and girls, and why some kids are overlooked until school demands outpace their ability to self-manage. We also talk about what real, well-rounded support looks like—beyond “just try harder.” From home routines and emotional regulation to school strategies and community resources, Rachel offers practical insight that helps parents feel more grounded, more capable, and far less alone. If you’re navigating a new diagnosis, supporting a child who’s struggling with focus, organization, impulsivity, or big emotions, or you simply want a clearer understanding of how ADHD impacts learning, behaviour, and relationships—this conversation is packed with clarity, reassurance, and next steps you can use right away. In today’s episode, we cover: What ADHD really is (and common myths that cause shame or confusion)Key signs and symptoms in children—and why they’re often misunderstoodHow ADHD can present differently in boys vs. girls (and why some kids are missed)How ADHD changes over time: elementary years, teens, and adulthoodWhat “effective support” looks like at home and at schoolCommunity resources and why connection matters for parents, tooMeet our guest: Rachel Rogers worked with Edmonton Public Schools as a teacher, school counsellor, and school psychologist, and later consulted privately with parents navigating ADHD. She founded the ADHD Association of Greater Edmonton and currently serves as its Interim President, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience to her advocacy.https://adhdedmonton.com/adhd-what-you-should-know-with-rachel-rogers/ https://informalberta.ca/public/organization/orgProfileStyled.do?organizationQueryId=1036682 Find more of Rachel’s work / resources: ADHD Association of Greater Edmonton (AAGE): https://adhdedmonton.com/ Support groups (parents, adults, partners, young adults): https://adhdedmonton.com/support-groups/ AAGE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdedmonton/ AAGE Board (Rachel listed as President): https://adhdedmonton.com/our-board/ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/ Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    52 min

  3. 5 May

    How to Help a Shy Child Speak Up in Class: Public Speaking Anxiety and Communication Skills That Kids Can Learn

    Today, Lara sits down with Carmen Leibel—a former CTV news anchor and journalist turned entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Project Five, a program built around five practical steps to help kids (and adults) become confident communicators. Carmen launched Project Five after noticing how much youth communication shifted online during the pandemic—and how many students were quietly losing the skill (and courage) to speak up in real life. In this episode, we dig into what’s really happening when kids know the answer but freeze the moment eyes turn toward them. Carmen shares what she’s learned from working with thousands of students (from elementary to post-secondary), along with athletes, musicians, community leaders, and high performers—including how confidence isn’t something you’re born with… it’s something you build through repeatable skills. We talk about the difference between being “shy” and being stuck, why presenting can feel like a threat to some nervous systems, and how parents can support their child without pushing too hard or accidentally reinforcing avoidance. Carmen offers actionable strategies you can use at home—simple ways to practice speaking that feel safe, doable, and even fun—so your child can find their voice socially, academically, and emotionally. If you’ve ever watched your child shrink into the background, avoid presentations, panic in front of a group, or stay silent even when they have something valuable to say… this conversation will leave you feeling hopeful, equipped, and ready to help them step forward with confidence. In today’s episode, we cover: Why kids freeze, avoid presenting, or “go blank” when speaking in front of othersHow communication skills build real confidence over time (even for anxious kids)The difference between supporting growth and accidentally reinforcing avoidanceParent-friendly ways to practice speaking at home without pressureWhy confident communication helps with friendships, interviews, leadership, and self-advocacyCarmen’s “Project Five” approach and what makes it work for different agesMeet our guest: Carmen Leibel spent 17+ years in broadcast journalism with CTV as a producer, reporter, and anchor. She now runs Project Five, delivering in-school residencies, youth workshops, corporate workshops, and one-on-one coaching to help people communicate with confidence and clarity. Find more of Carmen’s work: Project Five (website): https://projectfive.ca/In-school programs & workshops: https://projectfive.ca/in-school-programsCorporate workshops: https://projectfive.ca/corporateProject Five on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectfive.ca/Carmen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/carmen-leibel-876b4925b

    46 min

  4. 24 Mar

    Signs of a Speech Delay & Helping Kids Communicate: Connection, Play, and Real-Life Language Tips Parents Can Use Today

    Today, Lara sits down with Paige O’Dwyer, a pediatric speech-language pathologist and mom of two who’s on a mission to change how parents think about language and communication—especially when you’re watching your child and quietly wondering, “Should they be talking more by now?” Paige helps families ditch the pressure, move away from drills and flashcards, and understand what truly comes before words: connection, shared attention, play, and felt safety. Based in Red Deer, Alberta, Paige supports families through her pediatric practice and her online platform TALK, where she coaches parents with practical, doable strategies that fit into real life—not one more thing to add to your plate. She specializes in early communication, supporting late talkers, and helping parents meet their child exactly where they are—without fear, shame, or overwhelm. In this episode, we talk about how language development has changed, what parents worry about most, and how everyday moments—playtime, mealtime, getting dressed, bath time—can become powerful opportunities for communication and connection. Paige explains why language is about more than words, what parents can focus on right now (even if their child isn’t talking yet), and how to support communication in ways that feel natural, calm, and realistic. Whether you’re worried about a late talker, feel stuck comparing your child to others, or just want a more confident approach to communication, this conversation will leave you feeling reassured, supported, and empowered. In today’s episode, we cover: What “late talking” can look like—and what actually matters most early on Why drills and flashcards often miss the point (and what to do instead) The building blocks that come before words: connection, attention, and play How to turn everyday routines into language-rich moments without extra time What to say (and what not to say) when you’re trying to help your child communicate How to reduce pressure while still making meaningful progress Meet our guest: Paige O’Dwyer is a pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and the creator of TALK, an online coaching platform designed to make speech and language support more accessible for families. She is also the Owner/Director of Communication Options Inc. in Central Alberta, supporting children with speech and language delays through parent-friendly, evidence-informed approaches. Find more of Paige’s work: Paige’s website / TALK: https://paigeodwyer.com/ TALK Blog (late talkers + everyday routines): https://paigeodwyer.com/blog Communication Options Inc. (About Paige): https://www.communicationoptionsinc.ca/about-us Paige on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paigeodwyer_/ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    55 min

  5. 10 Mar

    Psych-Ed Testing for ADHD, Autism, and Learning Differences (Does My Child Need One?): Signs, Steps, and A Parent’s Guide on What to Expect

    Today, Lara sits down with Sarah Melville, a Registered Psychologist and Clinical Director at Onyx Assessments in Sherwood Park, Alberta, to unpack a topic that many families hear about—but don’t always fully understand: psychoeducational (“psych-ed”) assessments. Sarah holds a Master of Education in School and Applied Child Psychology from the University of Calgary and specializes in comprehensive assessments for children, youth, and adults, supporting individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, and mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. In today’s episode, Sarah walks us through what a psych-ed assessment actually is, what the process looks like from start to finish, and what it can feel like for kids to go through it. We talk about how psychologists make sense of many different pieces of information—without reducing a child to a label—and how a strong assessment is meant to lead to real support: clearer next steps, better accommodations, and a plan that helps a child feel understood, capable, and confident. Sarah also helps parents navigate the emotional side of it all: the fear of labels, the worry it’s “too late,” and the uncertainty of whether an assessment is the right move. If you’ve been considering an assessment for your child (or even yourself), felt nervous about what it involves, or wondered what happens after the report arrives, this conversation will bring clarity, reassurance, and practical direction. In today’s episode, we cover: What a psychoeducational assessment is (and what it isn’t) What the assessment process typically looks like, step by step How to understand results without letting a diagnosis become a “definition” What it’s like for kids during testing—and how to support them through it What happens after the report: recommendations, school supports, and follow-through Whether it’s ever “too late” to pursue answers and support Meet our guest: Sarah Melville is a Registered Psychologist, Clinical Director at Onyx Assessments, and a specialist in psychological testing and assessments for children, youth, and adults. She brings a collaborative, strength-based lens to helping families understand learning, attention, development, and mental health—so the outcome is not just information, but a path forward. Find more of Sarah’s work: Sarah Melville (Onyx Assessments profile): https://www.onyxassessments.ca/team/sarah-melville Onyx Assessments (Sherwood Park): https://www.onyxassessments.ca/ Onyx Assessments — Children’s Assessments: https://www.onyxassessments.ca/children-assessments Book / Initial Consult info (Onyx Assessments): https://onyxassessments.janeapp.com/locations/onyx-assessments/book Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/ Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    42 min

  6. 24 Feb

    School Struggles and Testing: A Clear Parent Roadmap After a Psychoed Assessment

    Today, Lara sits down with Dion Matheson—an educator, counsellor, parenting coach, and mom of three who has spent her career helping families move from overwhelm to clarity when school challenges, emotional struggles, and psychoeducational assessments start piling up. Dion brings both deep professional expertise and real-life parenting insight, with a Bachelor of Education, a Master’s in Educational Psychology (School Counselling) from the University of Alberta, and credentials as a Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C.). She has over 16 years of experience supporting children, teens, and parents at school and at home. In today’s episode, Dion helps us make sense of one of the most stressful parenting seasons: when you know your child is struggling, but you’re not sure what to do next. We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of considering a psychoeducational assessment—the fear of labels, the fear of “getting it wrong,” and the fear of being judged. Dion shares how she helps parents sort through the emotional fog, focus on what matters most in the early weeks, and build a path forward that feels doable, not daunting. We also dig into the tug-of-war so many parents feel between advocating strongly for their child and maintaining a positive relationship with the school. Dion offers compassionate guidance for finding your footing when you’re worried about coming across as “too much,” plus practical ways to turn school accommodations from something that lives on paper into routines that actually help your child day to day. Her insights on parent coaching as the often-missing piece are especially powerful for families who feel stuck in exhausting patterns at home. If you’re facing your first assessment, trying to understand a report, or navigating school supports that don’t seem to be working yet, this conversation brings warmth, reassurance, and a roadmap forward. Dion’s perspective will help you feel less alone—and more confident in the next step. In today’s episode, we cover: The emotional side of psychoeducational assessments (fear, uncertainty, and what parents need most first) How to read a report without spiraling—and what to prioritize in the early weeks The balance between strong advocacy and a collaborative school relationship Why parent coaching can be the missing piece when everyone feels stuck How to support your child while still building independence and resilience Turning accommodations “on paper” into daily habits that actually work at home and school Meet our guest: Dion Matheson is an educator, school counsellor, parenting coach, and Canadian Certified Counsellor with over 16 years of experience helping children, teens, and families thrive in school and at home. She holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology in School Counselling from the University of Alberta, and supports parents with practical, compassionate coaching grounded in child development, education, and counselling. Find more of Dion’s work: Equipped Parenting (About Dion): https://equippedparenting.com/about/ Onyx Assessments (Dion Matheson profile): https://www.onyxassessments.ca/team/dion-matheson Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/ Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    57 min

  7. 3 Feb

    What Does “Good Play” Look Like? A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Play and Co-Regulation

    Today, Lara sits down with Tina Geers, a leader in early childhood education and one of Canada’s most passionate advocates for protecting and promoting play in the early years. With nearly 25 years of experience as an Early Childhood Educator, coach, mentor, and facilitator of play, Tina helps parents and educators move from “Am I doing this right?” to “I can trust what I’m seeing in my child.” She is the owner of Inspired Minds ECC Consulting Inc.—a hub for professional learning and play-based practice—and the founder and president of the nonprofit Alberta Early Childhood Play Connection Network (AECPCN). Tina is also a member of the World Forum Working Group on Play, IPA Canada, and the Canadian Child Care Federation (CCCF). In this episode, Tina shares why play is essential to healthy development—and why so many parents feel unsure about what “good play” even looks like anymore. We talk about the pressure to hit milestones, the constant noise of parenting advice online, and the fear that if you’re not “teaching,” you’re falling behind. Tina helps bridge the gap between child development theory and real-life parenting moments—meltdowns, transitions, overstimulation, and bedtime blowups—with compassionate, practical strategies you can use right away. She also dives into brain development and co-regulation, explaining one piece of science that consistently gives parents immediate relief (especially when you’re trying to stay calm and your child is anything but). Whether you’re feeling spread thin, overwhelmed by mixed messages, or simply curious about how to support your child’s learning through play, this conversation will leave you feeling grounded, encouraged, and equipped to bring more calm, connection, and joy into your home—starting today. In today’s episode, we cover: What “good play” really looks like (and why it doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect) The biggest misconceptions that make parents feel like they’re not doing enough How play supports learning, regulation, social skills, and resilience Why co-regulation matters—and how to use it during meltdowns and transitions Shifting from “box-checking” to genuine connection (even on hard days) A simple brain-based insight that helps parents respond with more calm and confidence Meet our guest: Tina Geers is an early childhood educator, coach, and play advocate with 20+ years in early learning and childcare. She is the owner of Inspired Minds ECC Consulting Inc. and the founder/president of Alberta Early Childhood Play Connection Network (AECPCN), supporting educators and families through workshops, resources, and play-centered professional learning. Find more of Tina’s work: Inspired Minds ECC Consulting Inc.: https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/ Inspired Minds – About Tina: https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/about/ Play Connection Network (AECPCN): https://aecpcn.org/ Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/ Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    43 min

  8. 20 Jan

    Hands-Off vs Over-Controlling Parenting: Finding the “Healthy Middle” for Confident Kids

    Today, Lara sits down with Dr. Marissa Nivison, a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Calgary in the Determinants of Child Development Lab, to unpack one of the biggest questions parents carry (often silently): “Am I doing enough to build a strong bond with my child—and will it matter later?” Marissa completed her PhD in Developmental Psychology at the University of Minnesota, where her research examined how early caregiving experiences and parent–child relationships shape emotional wellbeing and attachment across the lifespan. Today, her work continues to explore the “legacy” of early experiences—and what helps relationships stay resilient over time. In today’s episode, Marissa breaks down what attachment really is (and what it isn’t), why it matters for your child’s future relationships, and how to spot common attachment myths that leave parents feeling anxious or “not good enough.” We talk about how our own childhood experiences can quietly influence the way we parent, and how to find that sweet spot between being too hands-off and too controlling—especially when you’re trying to raise a confident, capable kid without pushing too hard. Most importantly, Marissa brings hope: even if the early years weren’t “ideal,” kids can still form strong, healthy relationships later in life—and parents can strengthen connection at any stage with the right moves. If you’ve ever wondered whether your relationship with your child today could shape their confidence, emotions, and relationships tomorrow, this episode will leave you feeling informed, reassured, and equipped with practical ways to deepen the bond you’re building. Meet our guest Dr. Marissa Nivison is a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Calgary’s Determinants of Child Development Lab. Her work focuses on how early caregiving experiences and parent–child relationships influence wellbeing and attachment across the lifespan. Resources & links Learn more about Dr. Marissa Nivison: https://profiles.ucalgary.ca/marissa-nivison Determinants of Child Development Lab (UCalgary): https://madiganlab.org/ Marissa Nivison (lab profile): https://madiganlab.org/team/marissa-nivison/ UCalgary news (Banting fellowship feature): https://ucalgary.ca/news/ucalgary-researchers-receive-banting-postdoctoral-fellowships-advance-health-research Follow Parenting Ed-Ventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingedventurespod/ Learn more about Tutor Teach: https://tutorteach.ca/

    29 min
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About

🎙 A Tutor Teach podcast that aims to be a beacon of support and knowledge for those navigating the intricate landscape of parenting! 🎧 Listen now!

Information

  • Creator
    Parenting Ed-Ventures
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Parenting Ed-Ventures
  • Show Website
    Parenting Ed-Ventures

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