Parenting Matters

Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto
  • 5.0 (10)
  • PARENTING

Parenting Matters is a brand-new podcast from Early Childhood Matters, hosted by parenting educators Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto. Each episode tackles real questions from real parents—covering everything from toddler tantrums to teen boundaries with warmth, insight, and zero judgment. Whether you’re in the thick of sleepless nights or navigating screen time battles, Parenting Matters is here to support you with practical advice and honest conversation. Listen, share, and join the community - because your parenting matters.

Episodes

  1. NOV 25

    Episode 11: The Gift of Enough: What Children Teach Us About the Magic of the Holiday Season

    Short Overview: Rebecca explores the beautiful (and sometimes jarring) contrast between Thanksgiving gratitude and the consumer rush of Black Friday and the holiday season. She reflects on how to nurture a spirit of thankfulness in young children, shares her family’s long-loved gratitude traditions, and offers gentle ways to shift the holiday focus from buying to truly being together. If you’re looking for a heart-forward, calmer holiday season and a thoughtful gift guide, this episode will leave you inspired, grounded, and ready to create magic that lasts far beyond Christmas morning. Rebecca also breaks down her early childhood teacher approved approach to gift giving — including the play-based curriculum framework she uses to choose toys that last, spark creativity, and discourage materialism. From blocks and dramatic play to arts, outdoor toys, sensory materials, books, music, and experiences, she highlights meaningful gift ideas that grow with children rather than overwhelm them. Check out our 'ECM Approved' holiday gift guide here. Full transcript here.   Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!

    29 min

  2. NOV 11

    Episode 10: Sibling Rivalry

    Episode 10: Sibling Rivalry — Rethinking Fairness at Home In this episode, Rebecca and Belann unpack the roots of sibling rivalry and explore why striving for perfect fairness can sometimes make things worse. Learn how to help your kids navigate feelings of unfairness, celebrate their differences, and build stronger, more understanding relationships with each other. They answer the questions: What is the role of the concept of fairness in sibling rivalry and how does it impact children?  Why might striving for fairness (in the sense of equality) actually exacerbate conflict between siblings?  How can parents help children understand and accept differences between siblings, instead of consistently treating everything as “fair”? How can parents support children in navigating feelings of unfairness—rather than simply trying to make everything equal? To view the equity/equality image Rebeca mentions, please visit our site: https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!   Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters(00:01:03) - How to Prevent sibling conflict(00:04:09) - Setting the Tone for a Family(00:07:49) - Parents Get Involved in Children's Fights(00:08:17) - Always Want Everything to Be Fair(00:13:15) - The Right to a Deficit(00:13:51) - Fighting in the Family(00:18:36) - The Problem-Solving Approach to Children(00:21:58) - How To Bridge The Gap Between My Younger Child and My Older Son(00:27:11) - How To Have A Good Night's Sleep(00:27:51) - Parenting Matters

    29 min
  3. Episode 9: Baby Makes 4 - Navigating the Transition to a New Sibling

    OCT 15

    Episode 9: Baby Makes 4 - Navigating the Transition to a New Sibling

    Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf   Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best! Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters(00:01:01) - How to Help Your Child Transition to a Sister(00:07:17) - The Secret to More Love For Your Child(00:09:30) - The Divide and Conquer With My Daughter(00:13:18) - Going back to school for 3 year old(00:15:04) - Never Hit Your Baby(00:18:33) - Other ideas for nursing your child while reading a story(00:23:32) - How to Stop Hitting the Baby!(00:28:29) - The guilt of hugging a baby(00:29:35) - The Greatest Gifts a Sister Can Offer a Child(00:35:07) - Parenting Matters

    36 min
  4. Episode 8: From Sandcastles to Circle Time: The Summer-to-School Shift

    AUG 17

    Episode 8: From Sandcastles to Circle Time: The Summer-to-School Shift

    In this episode of Parenting Matters, Rebecca Walsh discusses the complexities of parenting during the middle school years, focusing on the emotional and physical changes children experience. The conversation covers topics such as shifting friendships, hormonal changes, and the importance of community support for both children and parents. Walsh emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion as children navigate these transitions, encouraging parents to embrace their child's individuality and foster connections with others. Takeaways Friendships often change during middle school due to identity shifts. Children's brains undergo significant changes during puberty. It's important for parents to understand hormonal changes start early. Support for early and late bloomers is crucial for self-esteem. Comparison among peers can be detrimental; every child develops at their own pace. Community support helps normalize the challenges of adolescence. Encouraging imaginative play is vital for emotional health. Parents should embrace their child's unique interests and passions. Understanding that hormonal changes can lead to mood swings is essential. Creating a supportive environment fosters resilience in children. Book recommendations: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/04/books/preschool-books.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare   Other books we love: The Kissing Hand and Lena’s Shoes are Nervous Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent gro... Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters: Real Talk From Kids to Teens(00:01:03) - Parenting Matters: Starting School(00:01:41) - How to Handle Your Child's Fear About School(00:08:41) - How to Prepare Your Child for School(00:13:22) - How to help a child with a new classroom transition(00:19:00) - How to Prepare a Child for a New School(00:21:21) - How to Encourage New Friends in Kindergarten(00:24:27) - Bedtime and Morning Routine(00:32:27) - Kindergarten Transition Advice(00:38:52) - Day in Review with Parent(00:40:19) - How to Prepare for a Child's First Year of School(00:44:36) - Podcast

    46 min

  5. JUL 7

    Episode 7: Too Young for Sex Ed? Think again - How to start "The Talk" in Preschool with Konika Wong of Girl Power Science

    Rebecca discusses the importance of open communication about puberty and body literacy with children with Konika Wong of Girl Power Science. They emphasize starting these conversations early (preschool!), using correct anatomical terms, and creating a positive narrative around menstruation. The discussion also covers how to navigate children's questions, the role of parents in body education, and the significance of empowering children with knowledge about their bodies and boundaries in order to avoid stigma and shame and to keep themselves safe. The conversation aims to shift the narrative from negative to positive, encouraging a healthier understanding of puberty and body changes.   More About Girl Power Science and Konika Wong: Konika co-founded GPS (Girl Power Science) with her daughter to empower girls to navigate growing up with confidence. She is an author, body literacy specialist, and mom on a mission to reframe pubertal changes as superpowers. Based in San Francisco, she has been a puberty educator for 23 years. Her popular children’s books, One in a Million – A First Book About Periods and How to Tame a Tickle Monster – A First Book About Body Safety, are designed for kids ages 4 and up. Konika is passionate about starting these conversations early and breaking cycles of shame by celebrating growth.   Definition of Body Literacy: Body literacy is the ability to understand and respond to your body's signals—starting with basic needs like thirst, hunger, tiredness, and bathroom cues, and growing into more advanced awareness around things like screen time, relationships, and intuitive eating. As a body literacy specialist, Konika teaches classes that combine social emotional learning and science on a variety of topics including body safety, friendship skills, body image, and puberty.   Questions Answered in This Podcast: When should I start conversations about puberty? My son has seen me in the bathroom when I was on my period and asked if I was hurt and I didn’t know how to respond-he is 3 yrs? I heard that using correct anatomical names for penis, vagina, vulva etc can protect children against abuse but my husband is really uncomfortable with these terms-any advice? In my family periods were a curse for women, there was so much talk about how awful pms was-how do I paint a more positive view for my daughter?  How do we respond to How did the baby get inside your tummy in a developmentally appropriate way. I don’t want to show I’m uncomfortable with the topic but don’t want to give the detailed sex ed talk to my preschooler either. Takeaways It's never too early to start these conversations. The earlier we start, the easier it is for kids to understand. Kids can sense our comfort level with these topics. Using correct anatomical names empowers children against abuse. Creating a positive narrative around menstruation is... Chapters (00:00:00) - Introduction to Open Conversations About Puberty(00:02:54) - Starting Early: The Importance of Body Literacy(00:05:58) - Navigating Questions: How to Respond to Kids(00:08:59) - Creating a Positive Narrative Around Menstruation(00:11:57) - Understanding and Normalizing Periods(00:14:44) - Empowering Children with Body Knowledge(00:17:48) - Addressing Body Boundaries and Safety(00:20:47) - The Role of Parents in Body Education(00:23:50) - Flipping the Script on Negative Narratives(00:26:45) - Conclusion: Embracing Change and Growth

    44 min

  6. JUN 29

    Episode 6: Everyone in 7th Grade Was Invited to the Birthday Party Except Me!

    You know that gut-punch moment when your kid says, “Everyone in 7th grade was invited to the birthday party… except me”? Yeah — we’re going there. In this week’s episode of Parenting Matters, Rebecca is joined by psychologist and mom of two, Dr. Nina Kaiser from Practice San Francisco to talk about the real stuff: middle school social dynamics, exclusion, and how we can support our kids when things feel rough. We get into: •What to say (and not say) when your kid feels left out • What you can do to create buffers for your child: hint even just one friend, sometimes outside of school, can make all the difference • When it’s time to seek help or get other adults involved and how to do it • How social media or even just group text threads can add fuel to the fire It’s an honest, practical conversation for anyone trying to help their kids build resilience — and feel a little less alone as a parent too. Takeaways Mental health skills can be learned and practiced. Social exclusion can start as early as third grade. Parents should validate their child's feelings of exclusion. It's important to teach children self-advocacy skills. Having one good friend can significantly impact a child's well-being. Parents should underreact to their child's social mistakes. Social dynamics in middle school can be challenging for both boys and girls. Early intervention can prevent significant social challenges later on. Children need tools to navigate social situations effectively. Communication is key to understanding a child's social experiences.   For more info on Dr. Nina Kaiser and PracticeSF: Practice San Francisco website: https://www.practicesanfrancisco.com Other Mothers weekly newsletter on Substack:  https://othermothers.substack.com Instagram: @practice.sf and @drninakaiser   Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode:     Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the sho... Chapters (00:00:00) - Introduction to Parenting Matters and Dr. Nina Kaiser(00:02:44) - Understanding Social Exclusion in Middle School(00:05:58) - The Importance of Early Intervention in Social Skills(00:08:59) - Navigating Birthday Party Exclusions(00:11:48) - Building Resilience Through Social Challenges(00:14:45) - The Role of Parents in Social Dynamics(00:17:54) - Helping Children Understand Exclusion(00:20:48) - The Impact of Social Media on Friendships(00:23:48) - When to Seek Professional Help for Social Issues(00:26:35) - The Importance of One Good Friend(00:29:51) - Supporting Children Through Injuries and Social Changes(00:32:37) - Encouraging Self-Advocacy in Children(00:35:29) - Conclusion and Resources for Families

    52 min
  7. Episode 5: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? Middle School/HS Edition

    JUN 11

    Episode 5: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? Middle School/HS Edition

    EPISODE 5: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? Middle School/HS Edition With special guest host, Rebecca’s 15 year old son, Joey! Learn how to create balance with screens, IRL (In Real Life Activities) and how to use summer to level up (or discover) your passions and interests! Summary In this conversation, Rebecca and her teen son, Joey, discuss various summer activities and strategies for parents to engage their children during the summer months. They explore the importance of balancing free time with productive hobbies, navigating summer camps, and finding alternative activities. The conversation also touches on encouraging reading and learning, as well as utilizing online resources for last-minute opportunities. Takeaways Summer camps can provide structured activities for children. Encouraging children to explore hobbies can lead to personal growth. It's important to have a plan for free time to avoid excessive screen time. Using resources like ChatGPT can help find suitable camps and activities. Volunteering can be a fulfilling way to spend summer days. Parents should communicate with their children about their interests and goals. Reading can be encouraged by providing a variety of genres. Online learning platforms offer flexible options for summer education. Creating a bucket list can make summer more exciting. Engaging in social activities is healthier than solo screen time. Links to other companies/podcasts mentioned in Ep 5: Let Grow Project When Parents Step Back, Kids Step UP Screen Sense IRL Summer Packet-Screen time alternatives, contracts, and positive creative uses of tech  Pixel Parenting: What Parents need to now about video game research on Spotify or Apple Pixel Parenting: Brains, Screens, and Connection with Rebecca Walsh on Chapters (00:00:00) - Sumer Plans for Teens(00:01:12) - Are My Kids Ready for Summer?(00:04:58) - Balancing Downtime and Activities(00:09:03) - Navigating Camp Choices(00:12:49) - Finding Activities with Technology(00:13:48) - Navigating Screen Time and Gaming(00:16:09) - Creative Uses of Technology(00:19:36) - Engaging Alternatives to Screens(00:21:20) - Creating a 'Bucket List'(00:22:37) - Encouraging Reading in Teens(00:22:39) - Finding Volunteer Opportunities and Camps

    29 min

  8. JUN 11

    Episode 4: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? - For parents of young children (preschoolers + grades K-5)

    Summary:  You can make learning enjoyable, provide structure during Summer breaks, and empower your children to take charge of their experiences. Rebecca discusses tips for navigating transitions to Summer camps and balancing freedom with responsibility, along with strategies for engaging children in meaningful activities. Takeaways: Learning should be fun, not forced. Children thrive on structure during summer. Empower your child to review their camp experience. Create a boredom list with your child. Screen time should not be the default activity. Keep bedtimes consistent during summer. Make learning enjoyable to foster excitement. Use specific questions to engage your child. Structure your summer days for better experiences. Encourage independence in play and activities.   Links to other companies/podcasts mentioned in Ep 4: Mighty Bambinis Evelyn Nichols Parent-Child Forest Class in Marin Pixel Parenting: Brains, Screens, and Connection with Rebecca Walsh on Spotify or Apple Why Boredom is Good for Your Toddler (Pixel Parenting) - Listen on Spotify or Apple Early Childhood Matters’ Summer Camps Summer Brain Quest Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters... Chapters (00:01:40) - Balancing Learning and Fun for Kindergartener(00:08:01) - Transitioning Between Summer Camps(00:13:55) - Creating Structure in Unstructured Time(00:21:02) - Managing Screen Time and Bedtime(00:28:10) - Last Minute Camps and Activities

    33 min

  9. JUN 3

    Episode 3: You Can't Come to my Birthday Party!

    Episode 3: You Can't Come to my Birthday Party: Learn how to respond with these and other playground woes, what to do if your child is the one doing the excluding and some suggestions for the modern day parenting dilemma: should you invite the whole class to the birthday party Summary: In this episode, the hosts discuss the challenges children face with social rejection, particularly in the context of playdates and birthday parties. They emphasize the importance of teaching children resilience and problem-solving skills when dealing with rejection. The conversation also covers the etiquette of inviting classmates to birthday parties and how to handle situations where children are excluded from play. The hosts provide practical tips for parents to help their children navigate these social dynamics effectively. takeaways Understand that rejection is a common experience for children. Parents should check their own emotional responses to their child's rejection. Encourage children to express their feelings about rejection. Teach children problem-solving skills for social situations. Role-playing can help children navigate social dynamics. It's important to include all children during playdates at home. Establish family rules about inclusion during playdates. Discuss the importance of smaller birthday parties as children grow older. Help children understand that not being invited to a party is not a crisis. Share personal stories of rejection to normalize the experience.   Sound Bites "This is going to happen." "How did that make you feel?" "It's a problem that is solvable." Chapters Chapters (00:00:00) - Understanding Rejection in Childhood(00:17:49) - Navigating Playdates and Social Dynamics(00:27:43) - Birthday Party Etiquette and Social Skills

    38 min
  10. Episode 2: Fostering Independence in the Pre-Teen and Teen Years

    MAY 28

    Episode 2: Fostering Independence in the Pre-Teen and Teen Years

    Summary Parenting experts, Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto, explore the importance of fostering independence in children and adolescents, emphasizing the need for parents to gradually increase their expectations and responsibilities. They discuss how building life skills, encouraging problem-solving, and allowing children to navigate challenges contribute to their self-esteem and mental health. They highlight the significance of modeling resilience and the ability to cope with discomfort, ultimately preparing children for adulthood.  Takeaways Building independence in children starts with small responsibilities. Changing expectations as children grow is crucial for their self-esteem. Life skills like laundry can foster a sense of capability. Encouraging children to solve their own problems boosts their confidence. Parents should model problem-solving behaviors for their children. Experiencing discomfort is essential for children's growth. Over-scheduling can hinder children's ability to cope with challenges. Allowing children to navigate social situations builds resilience. It's important to involve children in household tasks to lighten parental burdens. Parents should not give up on fostering independence, even when it's challenging. Connect with us: Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best! Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters(00:01:06) - Fostering Independence in Our Children(00:07:11) - How to Raise a Child's Self-Esteem(00:13:15) - How to Raise an Adult(00:20:08) - How to Raise a Child's Confidence(00:23:29) - How to Talk to Your Child About Advancing Through Adolescence(00:29:43) - On the Importance of Independence for Kids(00:30:21) - Ideas for Increasing Children's Independence(00:31:56) - Parenting Matters

    33 min
  11. Parenting Matters - Episode 1: Increasing Independent Play in Toddlers

    MAY 16

    Parenting Matters - Episode 1: Increasing Independent Play in Toddlers

    Episode 1: Parenting Matters - Increasing Independent Play in Toddlers Topic: Increasing Independent Play in Toddlers Description: Whether you're just trying to get dinner made in peace, or looking for a little more much-needed time for yourself, you won’t want to miss these tools to help your toddler learn to play on their own!   Summary: In this conversation, Rebecca and Belann discuss the importance of fostering independence in children through play. They emphasize the significance of allowing children to play independently, the emotional resilience it builds, and practical strategies for parents to encourage this behavior. The conversation also addresses the challenges parents face, including guilt and the need for patience, while providing insights on how to handle situations when strategies don't work as intended. Takeaways: Fostering independence in children is crucial for their development. Independent play helps children develop emotional resilience. Parents often struggle with guilt when children express boredom. Repetition is key in teaching children new skills. Floor time is an effective strategy for encouraging autonomy. It's important for parents to model their own interests and values. Children need undivided attention to feel secure and independent. Expect challenges when implementing new strategies with children. Don't give up when things don't work immediately; persistence is essential. Understanding the child's feelings is important, but don't overdo it. Chapters: 00:00 Fostering Independence in Children 11:38 Understanding the Importance of Independent Play 19:17 Practical Strategies for Encouraging Autonomy 28:21 Handling Challenges When Strategies Don't Work Check out Early Childhood Matters Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters(00:01:03) - Questions of the Day: Foster Independence in Parents(00:02:45) - The Value of Independent Play for Kids(00:06:26) - How to wean a child at 18 months(00:10:28) - The Guilt of Child's Happiness(00:13:22) - Guilt About Child's Boredom(00:16:57) - Rebecca Walsh on the Need for Floor Time(00:18:53) - On Mom's undivided Time With the Child(00:24:32) - The Importance of Independent Play(00:25:16) - Read to Kids(00:29:02) - Read to Your Child(00:32:03) - How to Manipulate a Child's Feelings(00:33:15) - Parenting Matters: Fostering Independence

    35 min
  12. Parenting Matters: Why This Podcast?

    MAY 16

    Parenting Matters: Why This Podcast?

    Parenting Matters is a brand-new podcast from Early Childhood Matters, hosted by parenting educators Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto. Each episode tackles real questions from real parents—covering everything from toddler tantrums to teen boundaries with warmth, insight, and zero judgment. Whether you’re in the thick of sleepless nights or navigating screen time battles, Parenting Matters is here to support you with practical advice and honest conversation. Listen, share, and join the community - because your parenting matters. For more info visit earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf Got a question for a future episode? List it in the comments, comment on our web site, or email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org. We’d love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this episode: Please follow or subscribe wherever you listen. Leave us a rating or review—it really helps other parents find the show Share this episode with a friend or parent group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!   Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters(00:00:50) - Parenting Matters: The Very First Podcast(00:07:11) - Early Childhood Matters: A Joy of Parenting(00:14:07) - Inspiring Scientists: Early Childhood Inspiration(00:15:27) - The Joy of Parenting Adolescents(00:17:00) - Parenting Matters: From Mothers to Kids

    20 min
  • 12 Episodes

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Parenting Matters is a brand-new podcast from Early Childhood Matters, hosted by parenting educators Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto. Each episode tackles real questions from real parents—covering everything from toddler tantrums to teen boundaries with warmth, insight, and zero judgment. Whether you’re in the thick of sleepless nights or navigating screen time battles, Parenting Matters is here to support you with practical advice and honest conversation. Listen, share, and join the community - because your parenting matters.

Information

  • Creator
    Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giarretto
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Early Childhood Matters
  • Show Website
    Parenting Matters