What do children really need from their parents—and how can single parents raise resilient kids when they’re already exhausted, overwhelmed, and carrying so much on their own? Parenting can come with constant questions. Am I doing enough? Am I handling this the right way? Will my children be okay? Dr. Stan Block brings more than 43 years of experience as a pediatrician caring for children and families. He is also a father of four daughters, a grandfather, author, and longtime pediatric researcher. In this episode of Single Parent Success Stories, Dr. Block joins Irina Shehovsov for a candid conversation about single parenting, raising healthy and resilient kids, positive parenting, discipline, teenagers, co-parenting, and what decades of working with families have taught him about what children truly need. Together, they explore why children need to hear that they are loved, how parents can stay calm when emotions run high, and why listening can sometimes be more powerful than lecturing or trying to fix everything. Dr. Block also discusses parenting without yelling or physical punishment, helping children reach their own potential rather than imposing our expectations on them, supporting teenagers through emotional ups and downs, and finding common ground with a co-parent when possible. You’ll learn: • Why children need to actually hear the words “I love you” • How to stay calm when your child is angry, emotional, or overwhelmed • Why parenting without yelling can help children listen differently • How to support children without controlling their future • Why teenagers still need love, acceptance, boundaries, and connection • How to encourage boys who may have difficulty opening up • Why listening matters when children are struggling • How grandparents and other supportive adults can help single-parent families • Why finding common ground in co-parenting can benefit your children • How humor, patience, and perspective can help during difficult parenting seasons One of Dr. Block’s simplest reminders comes from more than four decades of working with children: Tell your children you love them. Not only through what you do, but through the words themselves. For single parents who sometimes wonder whether they are doing enough, this conversation is a reminder that parenting isn’t about creating a perfect childhood or controlling every outcome. Your children need your love, guidance, boundaries, and presence. And on the difficult days, sometimes being there is more powerful than getting everything right. Connect with Dr. Stan Block: 🌐 Website: slblockmd.com 📖 Pediatrics Around the Block: https://link.amazon/B0gltNTlN Connect with Irina: 🌐 Website: irinashehovsov.com 📚 Books: Explore Irina’s books: https://www.irinashehovsov.com/mybooks Medical Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or Single Parent Success Stories. This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Medical and parenting information discussed is general in nature and may not apply to your individual circumstances. Please consult a qualified healthcare or other appropriate professional regarding questions about your child’s health, development, behavior, or specific family situation. ↗️ Join PodMatch to find podcast guests or become a guest (affiliate link): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/irina 🎙️ Create studio-quality podcasts & videos with Riverside (affiliate link): https://riverside.sjv.io/DWbW5q
