Parents of the Year

Caroline & Andrew
  • 5.0 (3)
  • 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. 218. Should kids always say "It's okay" after an apology?

    6d ago

    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

    25 min
  2. 217. When Is It okay for kids to lie?

    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

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

    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

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

    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

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

    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

    27 min
  6. 213. Are Phones and Social Media Making Teen Life Harder Than Ever?

    May 27

    213. Are Phones and Social Media Making Teen Life Harder Than Ever?

    This week on Parents of the Year, Dr. Caroline and Andrew are joined by their youngest daughter  Willow for one of their most honest conversations yet. From social media stress to family rules that actually work, this episode pulls back the curtain on life with teens. Willow shares why she is now grateful she did not grow up with unrestricted social media, what she sees happening with friends online, and why consistency matters more than punishment. They talk about: why many teens feel overwhelmed by Snapchat and social pressurehow trust changes the way kids communicate with parentsthe difference between boundaries and controlwhy nagging shuts kids downhow respectful conversations build honestywhy sleep, phones, and mental health are tightly connectedhow parents can hold firm limits without turning the house into a battlefieldOne of the most powerful moments comes when Willow talks about knowing the rules AND the reasons behind them.   If you are raising teens or preparing for those years, this episode offers practical ideas, humour, and a refreshing look at what healthy family relationships can sound like. Homework Ideas Replace Commands With Questions Instead of: “Go do your chores.”  Try: “What’s your plan for getting your chores done today?” Doing so helps teens feel ownership instead of pressure. Keep a sticky note on the fridge with three reminder questions: •What’s the plan? •When are you thinking of doing it? •Do you need help getting started? Create One Non-Negotiable Phone Boundary Pick one consistent rule. For example: •phones downstairs at night •no devices during meals •no phones in bedrooms after a certain time Outline consequences for following or not following the rule and stick with it. Consistency lowers arguments. Explain the “Why” Behind Rules Spend 10 minutes talking about one family boundary and the reason behind it. Teens respond best when rules feel reasonable and predictable. Write family agreements together on paper instead of only giving verbal instructions. Practice Calm Corrections When something is not done perfectly, pause before pointing it out immediately. Instead of: “You missed a spot.” Try: “Thanks for getting started on this.” You get more of whatever you pay attention to, so focus on what they are doing right to get more of that. ;) This approach also reduces defensiveness and helps teens stay engaged. Ask About Online Stress Without Judgement Ask your teen questions about online use with curiosity. Keep calm and don't try to change or fix anything, show genuine interest in what they have to say.  •Does social media ever make school harder? •Do people feel pressure to respond quickly? •What causes the most drama online? Keeps conversations open without turning them into lectures. Consider going on a walk or drive instead of face-to-face conversation.   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

    32 min
  7. 212. How Do Parents Build Strong Readers Without Daily Battles?

    May 20

    212. How Do Parents Build Strong Readers Without Daily Battles?

    In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackles a concern many are facing right now: how do you raise children who enjoy reading when screens compete for every second of attention? From bedtime stories and graphic novels to hockey intermissions with a book in hand, Andrew and Dr. Caroline share what worked in their own home raising readers. They talk honestly about screen dependency, why family reading habits matter, and how creating a calm reading space can change the rhythm of family life. You’ll hear practical ideas for children with ADHD, reluctant readers, teens who would rather scroll than sit with a book, and parents who struggle to model reading themselves. They also unpack why fiction builds empathy, why reading aloud still matters, and why “30 minutes a day” can make a massive difference in language development and emotional growth. This episode is packed with real stories, sharp humour, parenting truth bombs, and simple strategies families can start using tonight. Topics covered: Helping kids enjoy reading without forcing itGraphic novels, comics, and ADHD-friendly readingScreen time and attention spansWhy family reading routines matterReading spaces that kids actually want to useHow reading supports empathy, vocabulary, creativity, and emotional regulationWhy parents need to model reading tooIf your child says books are “boring,” this episode is for you. Homework Activities for Adults Supporting Children & Teens 1. Create a Family Reading Window Pick the same 30-minute block every evening where everyone reads adults included. No TV. No phones. Resources needed: •Physical books, comics, magazines, or graphic novels •Cozy seating •Lamp or reading light •Basket for devices outside the room 2. Build a Reading Space Together Let kids help create the reading area with blankets, beanbags, pillows, shelves, or music. 3. Pair Books with Entertainment Read the book first, then watch the movie adaptation together. Ideas mentioned in spirit during the episode: •Harry Potter •Graphic novels turned into films •Hockey biographies for sports-loving kids 4. Start a “Commercial Break Reading” Habit Keep a book nearby during sports games or TV time. Read during commercials or breaks. 5. Replace One Hour of Weekend Screen Time Choose one block on weekends where phones and tablets are off-limits. Use the time for: •Reading •Listening to audiobooks •Reading aloud •Family storytelling 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

    26 min
  8. 211. What's it like to parent an ADHD child (with an ADHD spouse)?

    May 13

    211. What's it like to parent an ADHD child (with an ADHD spouse)?

    Dr. Caroline and her husband pull back the curtain on the chaos, comedy, frustration, and heart behind parenting in an ADHD household. From forgotten conversations and missed instructions to emotional overwhelm, impulsive comments, and the endless “Did you take your meds today?” jokes, this episode hits the realities many families live every day but rarely talk about out loud. They share honest stories about: The emotional shift after diagnosis Why medication changed their daughter’s confidence What “checking out” actually looks like in ADHD brains How open-ended questions work better than constant reminders The hidden exhaustion ADHD kids carry from years of correction and criticism Marriage dynamics when one partner’s brain works very differently There’s humor throughout, with vacuum cleaners abandoned in car trunks, disappearing attention spans, and entire family conversations happening in three different timelines, but underneath it is a real conversation about patience, support, and learning how to parent the child in front of you instead of the one you expected. This episode is for parents raising ADHD children, couples navigating neurodiverse relationships, teachers, caregivers, and anyone trying to better understand how ADHD affects family life. Homework Activities for Parents & Caregivers 1. Replace Commands With Open-Ended Questions Instead of: “Go clean your room.” Try: “What’s your plan for cleaning your room today?” Why it helps: It forces the child to mentally rehearse the task instead of letting the instruction disappear. 2. Watch for “Mental Checkout” Practice recognizing the moment attention disappears instead of repeating yourself louder. Signs: • blank stare • delayed response • random unrelated comments • frozen body language Homework: Pause. Reconnect. Ask one short question instead of repeating the entire instruction. 3. Reduce Negative Corrections Track how many times you redirect or criticize in one day. Goal: Add more positive observations than corrections. Examples: • “I noticed you remembered that.” • “Thanks for coming back and fixing it.” • “Good catch.” 4. Create “External Memory Systems” ADHD brains struggle holding multiple steps internally. Homework: Build external systems: • phone reminders • bathroom checklists • visual schedules • alarms • baskets for daily essentials 5. Debrief Social Moments Without Shame When impulsive comments happen: • pause later  • replay the moment calmly  • ask what they noticed  • brainstorm a different response together  Goal: Build awareness without embarrassment.    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

    30 min
See All (218)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 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
    218
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Parents of the Year
  • Show Website
    Parents of the Year

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