Parents of the Year

Caroline & Andrew
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We were never given a manual on how to parent. It is easy to get overwhelmed to know the right thing to do. There is so much contradictory information out there and everyone has their own advice. Parenting is a rewarding but messy, confusing, infuriating, guilt-inducing, and overwhelming journey. While it's easy to get lost, Andrew Stewart, a real dad, and Dr. Caroline Buzanko, a real mom, child psychologist, and parenting expert (who also happens to be married to Andrew) will help you get back on track. In each episode, Andrew and Caroline have open and honest chats about everything parenting. Join them in honesty, laughter, and tears (Caroline is a bit of a cry baby) as they help you navigate this journey of parenting. And, every so often, you may get some gems of expert advice. Our goal is to make your parenting journey less stressful, more forgiving, and more awesome. Please join us every Wednesday for new episodes of Parenting of the Year.

  1. 200. Why are teens self-diagnosing on TikTok—and what should parents say?

    4D AGO

    200. Why are teens self-diagnosing on TikTok—and what should parents say?

    Peanut butter crumbs, a surprise lap dog, and a teen who’s meeting new people at bars… this episode starts like a sitcom and lands on a real parenting pressure point: when kids start wearing diagnoses like usernames. Andrew and Caroline talk about the “sick role” trend online—especially on short-form video—where teens self-diagnose, compare who has it worse, and sometimes copy symptoms they’ve seen on their feeds. They unpack what gets missed when labels become identity: loneliness, shaky self-worth, and a craving to feel noticed. You’ll hear why this trend can hurt kids who truly need support, why parents can’t treat siblings the same way, and what to say when your teen comes home convinced they have a specific disorder. There’s also a reminder worth writing on the fridge: some kids are just quirky. They don’t need a label—they need their people. And, in the meantime, you’re their people. Homework activities for adults The “Two-Minute Mirror” check-in Ask: “What felt heavy today?” and “What felt good today?” Reflect back what you heard—no fixing.Swap the label for the need “What part of that feels true—feeling overwhelmed, lonely, wired, numb, stuck, left out?”Sibling spotlight audit Identify what each child gets attention for—and what gets missed.Feed clean-up plan (together) Unfollow one account that fuels distress. Replace it with one that supports skill-building, humour, or learning.Build a ‘their people’ map Home / School / Outside. Strengthen one connection this month.Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    35 min
  2. 199. Are tracking apps making parents calmer—or more anxious?

    FEB 18

    199. Are tracking apps making parents calmer—or more anxious?

    Tracking your kids can feel like “good parenting”… until it turns your home into a control room. In this Parents of the Year episode, Andrew and Caroline talk about why location-sharing and constant check-ins often backfire—especially as kids become teens and young adults. They unpack the real driver underneath most tracking habits: adult discomfort with uncertainty. You’ll hear how “just nice to know” can quietly turn into stress, distrust, and sneaky workarounds (hello, leaving the phone somewhere “safe”). Along the way, they share what actually keeps teens talking: conversations that aren’t about school, letting kids teach you their world (yes, even Formula 1), remembering the “small” details that matter to them, and owning it when you mess up. If you want more openness, less policing, and a relationship your teen actually uses (calls in the car, debriefs after school, mall trips by choice), this one’s for you. “Homework” activities for adults (to support kids + teens)  1) The “Not School” Daily Check-In (7 minutes) Once a day, ask one question that has nothing to do with grades, homework, or performance. Keep it light.  Prompt ideas: “What was the funniest thing today?” “Who made your day better?” “What’s your current obsession?” Resource: print/write a small stack of dinner questions (they mention using a question box). Use index cards or a notes app. 2) Let Them Teach You Something (15 minutes, once a week) Pick one of their interests and let them lead. Your job is to be curious, not clever.  Easy starters: music playlist tour, game/YouTube trend explainer, sport update, hobby demo. Resource: a shared note called “Things I’m learning from you” where you jot down names, teams, inside jokes, friends, upcoming events. 3) The “Remember One Detail” Practice When they mention something that matters to them (a friend issue, a teacher they can’t stand, a social moment), write one line somewhere. Bring it up later.  Goal: they feel noticed without being managed. Resource: phone note with headings: Friends / School People / Interests / Upcoming. 4) Replace Tracking With a Simple Family Plan Instead of location monitoring, agree on a basic rhythm: where you plan to bewhat time you expect to be backwhat to do if plans changeone check-in rule for late nights (short text is enough)Resource: a shared family note or whiteboard titled “Today’s Plan.” 5) The Clean Apology (30 seconds) When you misread them, embarrass them, overreact, or “torpedo” your partner in front of the kids—own it fast.  Script: “I got that wrong. I’m sorry. You didn’t deserve that.” No sermon. No courtroom defence. Resource: keep a reminder on your phone lock screen for a week: “Repair beats being right.” Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    36 min
  3. 198. How Do We Help Kids Feel Seen When Their Needs Look Different?

    FEB 11

    198. How Do We Help Kids Feel Seen When Their Needs Look Different?

    What happens when a child feels invisible—and how can adults respond in a way that builds confidence, connection, and kindness? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Mark Perloe, a retired infertility physician turned children’s book author and grandfather, to talk about modern parenting through a grandparent’s lens. Mark shares the real family moments that inspired Milo’s Superpower, including sibling dynamics, screen struggles, emotional outbursts, and the quiet strengths that kids often carry unnoticed. This conversation covers raising children across generations, respecting parenting boundaries as grandparents, supporting kids with big emotions, and using humour as a lifelong skill. You’ll hear honest stories about neurodiversity questions, screen time tension, emotional regulation, and how shared experiences—not stuff—shape children long after childhood. Perfect for parents, grandparents, educators, and anyone raising or supporting kids today. About Mark Perloe Mark Perloe worked as a doctor specializing in IVF for 32 years. Now retired, Mark’s favorite thing to do is spend time with his two grandsons. He also enjoys spending time with his therapy dog, Andrew. The two of them travel all over to put smiles on people’s faces. He is thrilled to be writing his first children’s book!   Homework Activities for Adults (Parents, Grandparents, Caregivers) 1. The Superpower Conversation  Ask your child or teen:  “What do you think you’re really good at?”  Follow up with where they’ve seen it help others. Resource: Paper, markers, or notes app to write or draw their “superpower.” 2. Screen Swap Challenge (One Evening)  Replace one screen session with a shared activity: cooking, walking, storytelling, or fixing something together. Resource: A simple activity you already enjoy—no prep required. 3. Sibling Spotlight  Spend 10 uninterrupted minutes with each child separately in the same week. No correcting, no teaching—just attention. Resource: Timer on your phone. 4. Humour Reset  When tension rises, ask:  “How could we make this moment lighter without ignoring feelings?” Resource: Model it yourself first. 5. Memory Over Stuff Check-In  Before buying a gift, ask:  “Would a shared experience mean more here?” Resource: Calendar for planning time together. Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    29 min
  4. 197. Are you using ChatGPT for parenting… and is it helping or hooking you?

    FEB 4

    197. Are you using ChatGPT for parenting… and is it helping or hooking you?

    Andrew and Caroline start this episode the same way many parents start a “normal” day: northern lights, a bank visit that ate two hours, and a reminder that adulting is its own full-time job. Then they try something parents are doing more and more—asking AI for parenting advice. They put a “nice British voice” to the test on real-life sticking points: kids refusing chores, screen-time blowups, bedtime anxiety, and the constant tug-of-war between boundaries and burnout. The advice isn’t wild… but the tone is the story. Why does AI feel so comforting? When does reassurance turn into a crutch? And what happens when “helpful” starts replacing your village? If you’ve ever Googled a parenting question at 2 a.m., this one will hit. Expect laughs, some blunt truth about consistency, and a practical way to use AI without handing it the keys to your home. “Homework” ideas! Homework 1: Pick one non-negotiable and make it boring Choose one daily expectation (dishes in sink, teeth brushed, screen off at X).Say it once, neutrally.Follow through with a consequence you’ll actually do (pause screens, delay dessert, Wi-Fi off). Resource: a one-sentence script you can print: “When ___ is done, then ___ happens.” Homework 2: Build a screen-time runway (no surprises) Give a two-step warning: “10 minutes” + “2 minutes.”Add a simple handoff action: “screen off → device charges here → we move.” Resource: set two phone alarms labeled “10” and “2,” or use a visible kitchen timer. Homework 3: Write your “calm plan” for when you feel yourself boiling Pick a pattern interrupt you’ll use every time: step into hallway, cold water on wrists, 10-count down, slow exhale.Practice it once when you’re not mad, so it’s there when you are. Resource: a note on your phone lock screen: “Pause. Breathe out longer than you breathe in.” Homework 4: Bedtime anxiety ladder (reduce reassurance over time) Keep routine steps in the same order nightly.Decide on a “stay time” (3 minutes), then shorten it every few nights.Use one consistent line at the door: “I’m nearby. You can do this.” Resource: a simple bedtime checklist your child can tick off (paper on the wall works great). Homework 5: Use AI without letting it “parent for you” Try a prompt that forces clarity and reduces the cheerleading: “Give me 3 options for handling screen-off meltdowns for a child aged __. Include exact words to say, one consequence I can enforce, and what not to do. Keep it short. No pep talk.”Resource: save that prompt as a note called “Parenting Prompt” so you don’t spiral-scroll when you’re stressed. Bonus Homework (from the bank + Manulife moment): Make a 30-minute “family admin” file One page: mortgage info, insurance contact, school logins, emergency contacts.Put it in a folder labeled “If I get hit by a bus.” Resource: shared note app doc + one printed copy.Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    27 min
  5. 196. How do we teach critical thinking in a world of ChatGPT and Deepfakes?

    JAN 28

    196. How do we teach critical thinking in a world of ChatGPT and Deepfakes?

    AI isn’t going away, and kids are already using it. So how do we protect their curiosity, critical thinking, and safety without panicking or burying our heads in the sand? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Caroline and Andrew sit down with English professor, game developer, and AI builder Jerry White to talk about kids, teens, AI, and critical thinking. Jerry has spent years teaching college students, building AI tools for his university, and helping his own son learn to use AI well. He brings that real-world classroom and parenting experience to this conversation. You’ll hear them unpack: Why using AI as a ghostwriter can quietly erode learning and memoryHow freewriting and “thinking on paper” before asking AI can protect kids’ brainsPractical ways to use tools like ChatGPT and mind-mapping apps without letting them become a crutchHow attention spans and learning styles have shifted with social media and constant techWhat educators can change right now: assignments, discussion boards, and assessmentDeepfakes, Character.ai, Roblox, and other risks parents and schools need to know aboutWhy parents must start using AI themselves to guide their kids safelyThis episode is especially useful for anyone who want to help children and teens: ·       Build real critical thinking skills ·       Keep their own voice in their writing and ideas ·       Stay safer online in an AI-driven world ·       Use AI as a tool, not a replacement for their brain About Gerry White Gerry White is the Dean of Academic Technology at ECPI University and founder of MyTutorPlus, an AI-powered tutoring platform. With two decades at the intersection of education and technology, he creates innovative digital learning experiences, including apps and immersive AR/VR. Gerry writes and speaks about how AI reshapes education and culture, exploring its ethical and societal impacts with a balanced, thoughtful approach. His work equips educators, parents, and professionals with practical insights to navigate the evolving AI landscape while preserving critical thinking and humanity. Resource: https://gerrywhitebooks.com/ Get in touch https://www.instagram.com/the_gerry_white/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrywhitetech/ https://gerrywhite.tech/  https://www.youtube.com/@gerrywhite6197  Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    41 min
  6. 195. Why does work-life balance feel impossible when you work from home with kids?

    JAN 21

    195. Why does work-life balance feel impossible when you work from home with kids?

    Working from home with kids in the mix can feel like you’re failing at two jobs at once.  Andrew and Caroline get real about why “balance” is a trap, and why clear boundaries work better—at home and at work. They share what actually helped in their house (the red/green door system, kid-friendly “emergency rules,” and setting kids up with non-screen activities—yes, including the legendary cardboard pirate ship that took over an entire archway).  You’ll also hear how Caroline plans work in 90-minute focus blocks, why email can wait, and why everyone needs pockets of nothing during the day—no phone, no noise, just a reset. If your calendar is packed, your attention is shredded, and you’re trying to parent without snapping, this episode gives you language, scripts, and practical setups you can try this week. Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    30 min
  7. 194. What actually works when your child won’t get off the screen?

    JAN 14

    194. What actually works when your child won’t get off the screen?

    Phones aren’t optional anymore—and that’s exactly why families feel stuck. In this Parents of the Year episode, Andrew and Caroline sit down with MJ Murray Vachon, a licensed clinical social worker with 40 years of practice to talk about what screen overuse is doing to stress, sleep, mood, and family connection.  MJ shares a practical way to reset family phone habits that starts with adult leadership, not kid willpower.  You’ll hear why “phone-free time” must be truly phone-free (not just “in the backpack”), how to set boundaries that don’t turn every night into a negotiation, and how to talk with kids about the science behind dopamine, cravings, and withdrawal-like irritability.  They also cover what to do when a child pushes back hard, why checking a child’s phone should be treated like checking the family car, and how parents can team up with other families so you’re not the only one holding the line. If you’re looking for realistic strategies around screen time, phones, social media, and stress, this episode gives you language you can use today. Homework Ideas “Deepest desire” check-in (10 minutes, solo) Write one sentence: “My deepest desire with my child is…” (not about rules—about the relationship). Keep it visible. You’ll need it when pushback hits. Phone as supervised access (not ownership) If your child has a phone, set the expectation: it’s a family device with supervision. Create a predictable check-in rhythm (brief, calm, consistent) so it doesn’t feel like a “gotcha.” Phone Use Awareness (for parents first) Check your screen time report for a full week. Note: Total daily hoursTop 3 apps Times of day you reach for it mostJournal one line a day: “What was I avoiding or soothing when I reached for my phone?” Create Phone-Free Blocks (ACT – C) Choose 1–2 daily blocks where all phones are away and out of reach (e.g., 5–7 pm, mealtimes, bedtime routine) Physically store them in another room or lockbox. During those blocks, invite, don’t force:WalksBaking or cookingBoard game “Nothing time” where people can be bored and see what happensTake Phones Out of the Bedroom (ACT – T) Parents go first. Replace your phone with a basic alarm clock or a speaker for music/meditation if needed Once you’ve done it for 2–4 weeks, have a family meeting: Explain the sleep and brain science (keep it simple: “Brains need dark, quiet, and no pings to reset properly.”)Agree as a family: phones docked in a shared space overnight and/or in a lockbox.Curate the Feed – “You Are What You Scroll” Together, pick 3–5 things you want more of in life (e.g., art, sport, nature, comedy). Follow accounts that actually match those values.Unfollow / mute accounts that leave you anxious, angry, or “less than.”Watch The Social Dilemma as a family and discuss: What surprised you? What do you want to change about how you use your phone? Send a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    54 min
  8. 193. How do you set goals kids actually want to work on?

    12/31/2025

    193. How do you set goals kids actually want to work on?

    Stealing from a popular replay of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss goal setting with kids. Rather than assigning goals or correcting what isn’t working, this episode focuses on working with children to help them identify goals that actually feel meaningful to them. When kids have a say, they are far more likely to stay engaged and follow through. The discussion covers how parents can use what they already know about their children — their temperament, strengths, and challenges — to guide goal setting in a way that feels achievable, relevant, and motivating. Setting SMART Goals With Kids (Without Turning It Into a Battle) Step 1: Start With Reflection  Before setting any new goals, take a few minutes to reflect together. Ask: What felt easier this year than it used to?What was hard, but you stuck with it anyway?What are you proud of yourself for?Step 2: Choose One Area to Focus On Start with a conversation. Ask what they want to get better at this year. Brainstorm ideas, keeping it open and pressure-free. Keep this small. One area is enough.  Step 3: Turn It Into a SMART Goal S – Specific What exactly are we working on? “What does that look like when it’s happening?” M – Measurable  How will we know it’s happening? “What would we see or hear if this was going well?” A – Achievable Is this realistic right now?“Does this feel doable, even on a tough day?” R – Relevant Why does this matter to you? “How will this help you at school or with friends?” T – Time-Bound What’s the time frame? “Should we try this for the next two weeks or for this month?” Example :  “I will practice staying calm during homework by taking one break when I feel overwhelmed, at least three times a week for the next month.” Step 4: Create One Tiny Action Step Big goals fail when there’s no plan. Ask: What’s one small thing you can do when this gets hard?What’s your first move?Step 5: Decide How You’ll Support Them This is where adults shift into the consultant role. Ask: What might make this hard?How can I help when if this gets tricky?Let your child lead this decision.  Step 6: Track Effort, Not Perfection Check in once a week (with curiosity rather than reminders or lectures). Focus on: What workedWhat felt hardWhat you’d tweakCelebrate effort, even when the outcome isn’t perfect. Write the SMART goal on a card or sticky note and keep it visible! Resources: Goal setting blog: https://korupsychology.ca/setting-goals/Overpowering Emotions Podcast (Episode 99 – goal setting)Problem-solving skills: https://korupsychology.ca/develop-problem-solving-skills/Making informed decisions: httSend a text Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

    29 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

We were never given a manual on how to parent. It is easy to get overwhelmed to know the right thing to do. There is so much contradictory information out there and everyone has their own advice. Parenting is a rewarding but messy, confusing, infuriating, guilt-inducing, and overwhelming journey. While it's easy to get lost, Andrew Stewart, a real dad, and Dr. Caroline Buzanko, a real mom, child psychologist, and parenting expert (who also happens to be married to Andrew) will help you get back on track. In each episode, Andrew and Caroline have open and honest chats about everything parenting. Join them in honesty, laughter, and tears (Caroline is a bit of a cry baby) as they help you navigate this journey of parenting. And, every so often, you may get some gems of expert advice. Our goal is to make your parenting journey less stressful, more forgiving, and more awesome. Please join us every Wednesday for new episodes of Parenting of the Year.

Information

  • Creator
    Caroline & Andrew
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    200
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Parents of the Year
  • Show Website
    Parents of the Year