Parents of the Year

5d ago

221. Can You Build Respect Without Yelling or Punishment?

You feel like every simple request turns into a debate. Picking up a backpack, putting away a phone, getting ready for bed, or helping around the house somehow becomes another power struggle. After enough of those moments, it's easy to wonder whether your child respects you at all. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explain why respect isn't something children automatically have for adults. It's something they learn through consistent leadership, clear boundaries, connection, and practice. They discuss the habits that quietly weaken parental authority, including negotiating every rule, repeating instructions without following through, avoiding conflict, allowing screens to replace family connection, and expecting counsellors or diagnoses to solve parenting challenges. You'll also learn practical ways to strengthen your relationship through family rituals, shared fun, predictable boundaries, calm communication, and leading with confidence instead of control. If you're tired of constant arguments and want your child to listen because they trust your leadership rather than fear your reactions, this episode offers practical strategies you can start using today. Homework Ideas This episode is highly practical. Andrew and Caroline encourage parents to focus less on getting immediate obedience and more on building leadership over time. Choose one family rule that regularly turns into an argument. Rewrite it so it's: clearpredictableenforceableAvoid creating new rules in the heat of frustration. Establish a boundary Instead of repeating yourself, state the expectation once and state the consequence once. A consequence is something you can enforce, something YOU are going to do. For example, if you tell your child the expectation is that they turn off their screen at dinner, the consequence of not following through is that you will take their screen away until the next day. To be most successful, remain emotionally neutral. Follow through calmly and consistently. Notice how much less talking is required. Protect one family ritual this week. Ideas include: family dinnerSunday brunchbreakfast togetherevening walkdessert togethercleaning up dinner togetherThe activity matters less than being consistently present together. Add one moment of fun every day. It doesn't need to be elaborate. Try: sending a funny memecooking togethertaking a walksharing musicplaying cardstelling funny storiesSmall shared moments build connection. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jul 15

220. What money lessons should every child learn before leaving home?

Schools teach algebra, chemistry, and history, but many children graduate without knowing how to earn, manage, save, or spend money wisely. That leaves one important question: who is teaching the financial skills they'll rely on for the rest of their lives? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline sit down with financial educator Vince Shorb, founder of the National Financial Educators Council, to explore simple ways families can build financial confidence at home. This conversation is packed with practical ideas that fit naturally into everyday family life. You'll learn why financial literacy doesn't require complicated investing lessons, how small daily conversations create lasting habits, and why involving children in real financial decisions can prepare them for adulthood long before they leave home. Whether your child is five or preparing for university, this episode offers realistic strategies that help children develop confidence, responsibility, and important skills that will set them up for future success. In this episode you'll learn: Why financial literacy begins long before a first jobSimple ways to teach earning, saving and spendingHow chores can become valuable life lessonsWhy everyday shopping trips create teachable momentsHelping teens prepare for cars, university and creditCareer exploration before choosing post-secondary educationHow parents can teach money skills, even if they weren't taught themselves About Vince Shorb Vince Shorb is one of the country’s leading advocates for promoting financial literacy and a thought leader in teaching and scaling financial education programming. After spending 15 years in financial services working one-on-one with more than 20,000 people, he founded the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) – an organization dedicated to combating the financial illiteracy epidemic. Shorb has led the NFEC in the development of 2,500 financial literacy programs and more than 80 financial literacy assets. He has been featured in publications on USA Today, CNBC, Yahoo Finance, Forbes, CNN Money, MarketWatch, Fox Business, Huffington Post, NASDAQ, and Business Insider. Connect with Vince: Website: National Financial Educators Council https://financialeducatorscouncil.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinceshorb/ Homework Activities This episode encourages families to move beyond talking about money only when there's a purchase to make. These simple activities help children build confidence through real experiences rather than lectures. 1. Hold a Monthly Family Money Meeting Choose one day each month to sit together for 20–30 minutes. Discuss: What everyone is saving forWhat goals were reached this monthOne financial lesson learnedOne goal for next monthKeep the conversation positive and focused on learning, not judgement. 2. Create a Family Chore Economy Instead of assigning chores without discussion, involve children in deciding how they can contribute to the household. Together: List household jobs.Let children choose responsibilities that interest them.Attach a reasonable financial reward."Pay" them monthly.Divide earnings into categories like:SavingSpendingGivingFuture Goals3. Practise Opportunity Cost While Shopping At the grocery store, ask questions like: Which cereal gives us better value?Is the larger package actually cheaper?Do we need this today?If we buy this, what are we giving up?The goal isn't saving every dollar. It's helping children begin weighing choices. 4. Compare Household Bills Choose one utility bill each month. Challenge the family to reduce usage over the next month. Examples: ElectricityWaterNatural gasIf everyone meets the goal, use part of the savings for a family activity. Examples: BowlingIce creamMini golfMovie night5. Research a Future Purchase Before buying something significant, have your child investigate the full cost. Ideas include: First vehicleLaptopPhoneSports equipmentAsk them to calculate: Purchase priceInsuranceMaintenanceFuel or charging costsAccessoriesRepairsOngoing monthly expensesThis teaches ownership rather than simply buying. 6. Career Conversation Challenge Each month, invite someone to talk about their work. Ideas include: GrandparentsFamily friendsNeighboursLocal business ownersAsk: What does your job involve?What do you enjoy?What skills are important?How did you get started?This broadens children's understanding of career possibilities before post-secondary decisions. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jul 8

219. Why kids ignore rules even when they understand them?

Respect doesn't suddenly appear during the teenage years. Responsibility, honesty, gratitude, and consideration for others are skills children learn through repeated teaching, consistent expectations, and everyday family interactions. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline explore why many families struggle with disrespect, constant negotiations, and boundary battles. They explain why discipline should be viewed as teaching rather than punishment and why calm, confident leadership creates far better results than power struggles. You'll hear practical examples of setting limits around chores, honesty, screen time, family responsibilities, and respectful communication while staying connected to your child. They also discuss why children need explicit instruction instead of assuming they already know what respectful behaviour looks like. If you're tired of repeating yourself, negotiating every request, or wondering why consequences don't seem to work, this episode offers practical strategies that help children build responsibility while strengthening family relationships. Homework for Families This week's challenge isn't about adding more rules. It's about becoming more intentional with the rules you already have. 1. Choose Three Family Expectations Instead of correcting everything, identify the three behaviours that matter most in your home. Examples: We speak respectfully.We tell the truth.We clean up our own mess.Write them somewhere everyone can see. 2. Replace "Don't..." With "Do..." Notice how often instructions begin with: Don't yell.Don't hit.Don't leave your shoes there.Replace them with clear instruction. Examples: Use respectful words.Keep your hands to yourself.Put your shoes in the basket.Children learn faster when they know exactly what success looks like. 3. Decide Your Follow Through Before the Problem Happens Ask yourself: "If my child doesn't follow this expectation, what will I calmly do?" Notice the question isn't: "What will I make my child do?" It's: "What action will I consistently take?" 4. Catch Helpful Behaviour This week, intentionally notice one helpful behaviour each day. Examples: "Thanks for putting your dishes away." "I noticed you told me the truth." "I appreciated how calmly you handled that." Positive reinforcement helps repeat behaviours you want to see again. 5. Model Repair If you lose your patience this week: Own it. Apologise. Explain what you'll do differently next time. Children learn as much from watching adults repair mistakes as they do from watching adults succeed. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jul 1

218. Should kids always say "It's okay" after an apology?

Can the Words We Teach Our Kids Change Their Relationships? Should children always reply "It's okay" when someone apologizes? A conversation sparked by Brené Brown opens the door to a much bigger discussion about the language we teach children and the messages those words carry. Andrew and Dr. Caroline explores why genuine apologies matter, why accountability should never disappear just because someone says "sorry," and how everyday interactions shape children's relationships for years to come. They also discuss: why "I'm sorry" can become meaninglessteaching children to solve problems together instead of blamingusing I statements without creating defensivenesshelping children feel heard during conflictmodelling respectful communication every daywhy listening may be one of the most valuable relationship skills we can teachWhether you're helping siblings work through conflict or supporting teens as they build friendships, this episode offers practical ideas for raising children who communicate with honesty, empathy and respect. Homework Ideas Homework 1: Listen Before Responding Choose one conversation this week where your goal is simply to listen without interrupting, correcting or fixing. Homework 2: Practise I Statements Replace blame with ownership. Instead of: "You never listen." Try: "I'm feeling frustrated because..." Homework 3: Brainstorm Together The next time a family problem comes up: define the problem togetherwrite down every ideadon't dismiss suggestions immediatelychoose one solution to test for a few daysHomework 4: Model Everyday Respect Notice the small interactions children see: greeting neighboursthanking cashiersholding doorsacknowledging othersThese moments teach social skills more than formal lessons. Homework 5: Rethink Apologies The next time someone apologizes: Rather than automatically saying "It's okay," try: "Thank you for apologizing." Notice how the conversation feels different. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jun 24

217. When Is It okay for kids to lie?

When Is It Okay for Kids to Lie? A Parent's Guide to Honesty, Friendship, and Boundaries As parents, we tell our kids to be honest. Then one day they use us as the excuse to get out of plans with friends. So what happens when honesty feels harder than a harmless excuse? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackle a surprisingly complicated parenting question: Is it ever okay to teach kids to lie? The conversation starts with a teenage daughter blaming "strict mom" to avoid a social outing and quickly turns into a bigger discussion about friendships, people-pleasing, social pressure, and why some kids feel the need to avoid telling the truth. Andrew and Dr. Caroline share personal stories, parenting mistakes, and real-life examples while exploring: The difference between protecting yourself and protecting someone else's feelingsHow parents unintentionally model social avoidanceWhen "little white lies" become a warning signHelping teens recognize friendships that leave them feeling exhaustedTeaching children how to identify healthy relationshipsWhy honesty isn't always as simple as it soundsIf you've ever wondered whether your child is avoiding conflict, struggling with friendships, or having trouble setting boundaries, this episode offers practical conversations you can start today. Listen now and discover how teaching honesty sometimes starts with helping kids understand themselves first. Homework Ideas Activity 1: Friendship Energy Audit Draw a circle with lines extending outward like a wheel. For each friend, rate them from 0-10 on: TrustFunKindnessReliabilityShared InterestsFeeling AcceptedFeeling Drained After Spending Time TogetherDiscuss: Which friendships score highest?Which friendships leave you exhausted?Which friendships make you excited to make plans? Activity 2: The "Why Am I Avoiding This?" Conversation If your child wants to cancel plans: Ask: What are you hoping to avoid?What are you worried might happen?Do you usually enjoy time with this person?Is this about being tired or about the relationship itself? Activity 3: Honesty vs Kindness Scenarios Review situations together: A friend gets a haircut you dislike.Someone invites you somewhere you don't want to go.A friend asks for your opinion on something you dislike.Discuss: What is truthful?What is kind?Can both exist at the same time? Activity 4: Relationship Non-Negotiables List Ask your teen to identify: 5 qualities they want in close friends.3 behaviours they won't accept.Examples: RespectLoyaltyTrustworthinessInclusionAccountability Activity 5: Spot the Pattern Track social activities for two weeks. After each outing, rate: Excitement before (1-10)Enjoyment during (1-10)Mood after (1-10)Review patterns together. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jun 17

216. Are Parents Giving Away Too Much Control Over Their Kids' Health?

Somewhere along the way, a lot of parenting shifted from leading to negotiating. We talk our kids into things, trade screen time for cooperation, and let the daily battles get decided by whoever has more energy that night usually not us. In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline dig into a quieter shift happening in a lot of homes: the slow handover of parental authority. Sleep, screens, food, and movement are where it shows up most plainly but the real question underneath every “just one more video” isn't about screens at all. It's about who's in charge, and what happens to kids when the answer gets fuzzy. Drawing on their own experience raising ADHD kids, in Part 2 of their Reclaiming Parental Authority series, they continue to talk about why setting clear expectations and holding them through the pushback is one of the most loving things a parent can do, and why giving in to keep the peace often reinforces the very behaviour were trying to change. In this episode, they focus on lifestyle specifically, including nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. You'll hear practical ideas for setting boundaries without becoming authoritarian, reducing power struggles around food, creating healthier sleep habits, and helping children develop routines that can serve them well into adulthood. Listen now and discover how a few consistent decisions today can shape your child's future for years to come. Homework Ideas to Rebuilt Authority in the Lifestyle Arena Notice where you negotiate For three days, jot down moments you catch yourself bargaining instead of deciding. Just notice the pattern. Pick one boundary and hold it through the pushback Choose something small. Expect the escalation. Follow through anyway. The boundary isn't the point; staying steady when they test it is. Separate the feeling from the decision Practice validating how your child feels ("I know you're frustrated") while keeping the decision unchanged. Both can be true. Name your non-negotiables Write down the three or four things in your home that simply aren't up for negotiation. Clarity for you makes consistency possible. Choose one non-negotiable family habit to focus on for the next two weeks and follow through. Examples: No devices in bedroomsDaily outdoor activityVegetables with every dinnerConsistent bedtimeAudit Your Home Environment Look around your home and identify what makes healthy choices easy or difficult. Ask yourself: What snacks are visible and accessible?Are screens available in bedrooms?Is physical activity encouraged daily?Identify one small step you can make this week to promote a healthier habit in your family. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jun 10

215. Why don’t kids respect parents the way they used to? Part 1 Parental Authority Series

Are Parents Losing Authority? Why Respect at Home Is Breaking Down Why are so many parents feeling ignored, dismissed, or completely powerless with their kids? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackle the growing culture of disrespect happening at home, at school, online, and across society. From kindergarten graduation fights between parents to teens brushing off rules without a second thought, they unpack what changed and what families can do about it. This conversation digs into gentle parenting gone too far, the pressure parents face from social media, and why so many adults are scared to set firm boundaries. Andrew and Caroline share personal stories about raising teens, handling screen time, teaching respect, building family culture, and helping kids care about the opinions of the people who love them most. They also talk about: Why consequences matterHow over-negotiating weakens authorityThe difference between compassion and permissivenessWhy kids still need non-negotiablesHow TV, social media, and peers shape behaviourTeaching respect through everyday momentsWhy kids secretly want boundaries, even when they push backThis episode is honest, funny, uncomfortable at times, and packed with practical parenting conversations every family should be having right now. If you’ve ever thought: “Why doesn’t my child listen anymore?” or “Why does everything turn into a battle?” this episode is for you. Homework Ideas Create One Non-Negotiable Rule Pick one household issue causing daily friction: •phones at bedtime •rude language •chores •dinner routines Collaboratively make a plan and write: •the rule •why it matters •the consequence if ignored Keep it simple and consistent for one full week. Practice “Broken Record Parenting” When your child argues: •stay calm •repeat the rule •avoid long explanations Example: “The phone stays downstairs at night.” Repeat calmly instead of debating. Family Contribution Audit Ask: “What does it take to make this house run every week?” Make a list together: •laundry •dishes •pet care •rides •groceries Assign one meaningful responsibility to each child. Set aside time to do chores together and make it fun! Teach Respect Through Real-Life Practice Use real moments: •ordering food •speaking to cashiers •apologizing •handling frustration Coach kids before and after interactions. Schedule One “Just for Fun” Parent-Child Activity Play cards, go for ice cream, garden, drive somewhere together, watch a movie, shoot hoops — whatever fits your family. The goal: Connection without pressure. Send us Fan Mail 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

Jun 3

214. Will Your Adult Kids Want to Spend Time With You Later?

Why Do Some Parents Actually Enjoy Parenting More Than Others? Why do some families seem genuinely connected, even during busy seasons, while others feel like they’re running a constant relay race of chores, sports, and stress? In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline talk about the simple moments that shape strong family relationships long after childhood ends. From late-night talks and Sunday dinners to grocery store runs, family group chats, funny memes, and spontaneous golf outings, this conversation explores how connection is built in everyday life rather than expensive activities or perfect parenting. They also unpack research showing dads often report having more fun parenting than moms, and why modern family life can leave many parents feeling emotionally drained instead of connected. You’ll hear honest stories about raising teens, creating family rituals, protecting time together, balancing rules with warmth, and finding ways to stay close as kids grow into adults. This episode is for parents who want more laughter at home, stronger bonds with their children, and practical ways to create family memories without adding more pressure to an already full schedule. If you enjoyed this conversation, listen to our previous episode on having more fun with your kids and creating meaningful family moments. Homework Ideas Create One Weekly Family Ritual Ideas: •Sunday dinner •Movie night •Board game night •Evening walk •Monthly breakfast date Start a Family Group Chat Use it for: •funny memes •photos •quick check-ins •music recommendations •inside jokes Invite Your Child Into Everyday Tasks Take them along for: •grocery runs •coffee trips •errands •cooking •dog walks Goal: connection without pressure. Leave Small Notes Write: •encouragement •funny jokes •memories •“thinking of you” notes Put them: •on mirrors •lunch bags •pillows •bathroom counters Add Music Into Chores Create: •cleanup playlists •car playlists •family throwback songs Turn ordinary moments into shared memories. Schedule One-on-One Time One child. One parent. No agenda. Ideas: •driving range •bookstore •coffee •skating •quick drive Even 30 minutes matters. Send us Fan Mail 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

Parents of the Year

221. Can You Build Respect Without Yelling or Punishment?

220. What money lessons should every child learn before leaving home?

219. Why kids ignore rules even when they understand them?

218. Should kids always say "It's okay" after an apology?

217. When Is It okay for kids to lie?

216. Are Parents Giving Away Too Much Control Over Their Kids' Health?

215. Why don’t kids respect parents the way they used to? Part 1 Parental Authority Series

214. Will Your Adult Kids Want to Spend Time With You Later?

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Parents of the Year

Episodes

221. Can You Build Respect Without Yelling or Punishment?

220. What money lessons should every child learn before leaving home?

219. Why kids ignore rules even when they understand them?

218. Should kids always say "It's okay" after an apology?

217. When Is It okay for kids to lie?

216. Are Parents Giving Away Too Much Control Over Their Kids' Health?

215. Why don’t kids respect parents the way they used to? Part 1 Parental Authority Series

214. Will Your Adult Kids Want to Spend Time With You Later?

Ratings & Reviews

About

Information