The Rising Parent Podcast

Tim Vartko + Edna Vartko | Parenting Coaches

Master toddler tantrums, navigate screen time, and survive the fourth trimester without losing your mind. The Rising Parent Podcast is a practical guide to positive parenting and child development, hosted by Certified Parenting Coaches Edna and Tim. Ditch the rigid rules and parental guilt. Tune in twice a week for actionable hacks on emotional intelligence, newborn essentials, postpartum mental health, and stress-free discipline. Go from surviving to thriving—subscribe today to build a calm, connected, and emotionally supportive home.

  1. 1d ago

    6 Ways to Teach Kids About Tricky People: Child Safety & Boundaries

    Have you ever told your child not to talk to strangers, only to watch them immediately hug the delivery driver? You are not alone! Welcome to the Rising Parent Podcast! In this empowering episode, hosts Tim and Edna guide you through 6 transformative ways to teach your kids about tricky people, child safety, and personal boundaries. It is time to ditch the outdated and confusing "stranger danger" myth and replace it with practical, confidence-building tools that actually work. By shifting the focus from fear to awareness, you can equip your children with the skills they need to navigate the world safely and confidently. We believe that educating our kids about safety doesn't have to be a terrifying experience. Instead, it can be an inspiring journey of teaching bodily autonomy, trusting instincts, and knowing exactly who to ask for help. Tune in to discover how to role-play real-life scenarios, establish a family safe word, and identify safe adults in any environment. Give your child the gift of empowerment today! Key Topics Covered: - Why the "stranger danger" myth is flawed and what to teach instead. - How to identify and explain "tricky people" based on behavior, not familiarity. - The importance of teaching bodily autonomy early on. - How to find a safe adult when lost or separated. - Effective role-playing scenarios to build muscle memory for safety. - Creating and using a family safe word for uncomfortable situations. Products & Resources Mentioned: - Book: C is for Consent by Eleanor Morrison https://amzn.to/4fWSi5C - Book: Some Secrets Should Never Be Kept by Jayneen Sanders https://amzn.to/4bL7TnJ - Organization: Selfless Outreach (Donate at SelflessOutreach.org) For more inspiring parenting tips and resources, be sure to visit RisingParent.org. #ChildSafety #ParentingTips #TrickyPeople #BodilyAutonomy #RisingParent #EmpoweringKids #ParentingPodcast #FamilySafety #SafeBoundaries

    6 Ways to Teach Kids About Tricky People: Child Safety & Boundaries
  2. 4d ago

    Stop Toddler Meltdowns: Gentle Parenting Strategies & Scripts

    Ever tried reasoning with a screaming toddler in the middle of a crowded grocery store? You are not alone, and you are not failing! Welcome to another empowering episode of The Rising Parent Podcast, where we transform your parenting chaos into moments of connection and confidence. In this episode, Stop Toddler Meltdowns: Gentle Parenting Strategies & Scripts, Tim and Edna dive deep into the beautiful, messy reality of the toddler years. If you have ever felt exhausted by epic tantrums over a broken graham cracker or the wrong colored cup, this episode is your ultimate survival guide. We explain exactly what happens inside a toddler's brain during a meltdown and why using logic simply will not work. Most importantly, we provide you with the gentle, yet firm scripts you need to navigate these explosive moments with grace and authority. Listen in to discover how to escape the validation trap and confidently hold boundaries that help your child feel safe. Key topics covered in this inspiring episode include: - Understanding the toddler brain and the amygdala hijack during a tantrum. - How to use sensory anchors and co-regulation to calm a meltdown. - Avoiding the validation trap while maintaining firm, loving boundaries. - Step-by-step scripts for handling aggressive behaviors like hitting and biting. - Mastering tricky transitions using visual cues and clear choices. - Giving yourself grace and repairing the relationship when you lose your cool. Products and Resources Mentioned in this Episode: - Sensory Fidget Tubes (glitter tubes for calming) https://amzn.to/45aYCBP - The Time Timer (red visual timer for transitions) https://amzn.to/4zcdDRI - A Little Spot of Emotion Box Set (books for emotional literacy) https://amzn.to/4zbbWE0 We also want to remind you that The Rising Parent Podcast is dedicated to supporting families in need. If this episode brought peace to your home, please consider paying it forward by donating to our non-profit mobile food bank, Selfless Outreach, at selflessoutreach.org. Every donation helps serve the under-resourced in our communities. Remember to visit RisingParent.org. Keep rising! #GentleParenting #ToddlerMeltdowns #ParentingTips #MotherhoodUnplugged #Fatherhood #RisingParent #PeacefulParenting #ToddlerLife

    Stop Toddler Meltdowns: Gentle Parenting Strategies & Scripts
  3. Aug 10

    10 Proven Budgeting Tips for Single Parents on a Single Income

    Ever feel like there is way too much month left at the end of your money? Managing a family's finances on a single income can feel incredibly overwhelming, but you don't have to just survive, you can actually thrive. In this episode of The Rising Parent Podcast, Tim and Edna share 10 proven budgeting tips specifically designed for single parents. We dive deep into practical, real-world strategies that go beyond the standard financial advice. From mastering the zero-based budget and building a micro-emergency fund, to creative solutions like childcare co-ops and negotiating your monthly bills, we are here to empower you to take back control of your finances. Give yourself the grace you deserve and learn how to build a secure future for your family today. Key Topics Covered: - Creating and sticking to a zero-based budget - Auditing subscriptions and negotiating bills to save hundreds - Building a starter emergency fund on a tight budget - Meal planning strategies to avoid drive-thru guilt - Creating childcare co-ops with other single parents - Letting go of brand-new guilt and embracing thriftfulness - Automating your savings and giving yourself financial grace Products Mentioned in this Episode: - Clever Fox Budget Planner https://amzn.to/4w8etMw - Instant Pot https://amzn.to/4ckdPEi - Magnetic Weekly Meal Planner https://amzn.to/4fDJ4fR Support Our Cause: If you found value in this episode, please consider donating to our non-profit mobile food bank, Selfless Outreach, by visiting selflessoutreach.org. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and as always, visit RisingParent.org for more resources and support. #SingleParentBudget #FinancialFreedom #RisingParent #SingleIncome #BudgetingTips #ParentingPodcast #MoneyManagement #FrugalLiving

    10 Proven Budgeting Tips for Single Parents on a Single Income
  4. Aug 7

    Balancing Remote Work and Active Parenting: Strategies for WFH Families

    Are you struggling to be the perfect employee and the perfect parent all at the exact same time? You are not alone, and it is time to give yourself some grace. In this episode of The Rising Parent Podcast titled Balancing Remote Work and Active Parenting: Strategies for WFH Families, hosts Tim and Edna dive deep into the beautiful, chaotic reality of balancing remote work with active child-rearing. If you have ever tried to lead a Zoom call while negotiating with a toddler, this conversation is for you. We explore how to break free from the crushing guilt of work-from-home life and share actionable, realistic strategies to help you reclaim your time, energy, and sanity. You will discover how to create a harmonious home environment where both your career and your children can truly thrive. Key Topics Covered: Pocket working: maximizing productivity during sleep windows. Establishing clear, visual boundaries for kids of all ages. Tag-teaming and sharing the mental load with your partner. Proactively filling your child's attention bucket to prevent meltdowns. Communicating realistic boundaries with your employer. Products Mentioned in this Episode: Magna-Tiles 100-Piece Clear Colors Set https://amzn.to/4ySHjDf Time Timer MOD 60-Minute Visual Timer https://amzn.to/4wEKFbf Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Canceling Headphones https://amzn.to/4pXxUWR Special Mention: We are incredibly passionate about supporting our communities. Please consider donating to our non-profit mobile food bank, Selfless Outreach, by visiting selflessoutreach.org. For more resources, community support, and tools to help you on your parenting journey, always remember to visit RisingParent.org. You are doing a great job, and we are here to support you every step of the way! #WorkingParents #WFH #ParentingPodcast #RemoteWork #WorkLifeBalance #ToddlerLife #MomGuilt #DadLife

    Balancing Remote Work and Active Parenting: Strategies for WFH Families
  5. Aug 3

    Ending the Screen Time Battle: Healthy Digital Boundaries for Kids

    Are you tired of your living room turning into a war zone every time you ask your kids to turn off their screens? You are not alone, and there is a peaceful way forward. In this episode of The Rising Parent Podcast, we explore how to replace the dreaded screen time tantrums with connection, creativity, and calm. Join hosts Tim and Edna as they dive into the modern parenting dilemma of digital boundaries. Instead of resorting to outright bans that only fuel rebellion, we share empowering strategies to help your children build a healthy relationship with technology. Discover how to transform screens from a highly coveted reward into just another tool, and learn actionable steps to help your kids successfully navigate transitions without the meltdowns. You have the power to reclaim your family's time and energy, turning digital battles into opportunities for lifelong digital wellness. In this episode, we cover: - Shifting your mindset to view screen time as a tool rather than a reward - Making time visible for kids to ease transitions and prevent tantrums - Creating a collaborative Family Digital Constitution that empowers older children - Replacing screen voids with high-connection, hands-on activities to rebuild imaginative play Here are the products mentioned in this episode: Time Timer Home Edition https://link.amazon/B06VuylKnMelissa & Doug Suspend Family Game https://www.target.com/p/melissa-and-doug-suspend-family-game-31pc/-/A-14195505National Geographic Earth Science Kit https://link.amazon/B08JlS3N3If you found value in this episode, please consider supporting our non-profit mobile food bank, Selfless Outreach, by visiting selflessoutreach.org to donate and help the underserved in our communities. For more resources, guidance, and inspiration to help you on your parenting journey, always remember to visit RisingParent.org. #ParentingTips #ScreenTime #DigitalWellness #MindfulParenting #RaisingKids #TechBoundaries #RisingParent #FamilyTime

    Ending the Screen Time Battle: Healthy Digital Boundaries for Kids
  6. Jul 31

    Smart Baby Monitors: The Ultimate Buying Guide & Top Picks

    Are you staring at the ceiling at 2 AM, wondering if your baby is breathing? You are not alone, and there is hope for a better night's rest. Welcome to The Rising Parent Podcast! In this episode, Smart Baby Monitors: The Ultimate Buying Guide & Top Picks, Tim and Edna shine a guiding light through the overwhelming world of nursery tech. Drawing from over 20 years of child care and coaching experience, they empower you to reclaim your peace of mind and get the sleep you so deeply deserve. Whether you are battling postpartum anxiety or just want to feel more connected to your little one, this episode will inspire you to find the perfect balance between helpful technology and trusting your own parental intuition. Listen in as we break down the market's heavy hitters, including: Owlet Dream Sock https://amzn.to/4hHQxf4 Nanit Pro https://amzn.to/4vZLJp8 Cubo Ai Plus https://amzn.to/4x2U0te Optics DXR-8 Pro https://amzn.to/3Ts94Cf You will discover which monitor aligns with your family's unique values, how to avoid the trap of data obsession, and why setting boundaries with tech is the ultimate form of self-care. If you find value in our show, please consider supporting our nonprofit mobile food bank at selflessoutreach.org. Always remember to visit RisingParent.org for more empowering resources and support on your parenting journey! #SmartBabyMonitor #ParentingTips #NewbornSleep #BabyTech #MomLife #DadLife #BabyRegistry #PostpartumAnxiety #RisingParent

    Smart Baby Monitors: The Ultimate Buying Guide & Top Picks
  7. Jul 27

    The Importance of Routine for Kids: End Bedtime Battles and Morning Meltdowns

    Are morning meltdowns and bedtime battles draining the joy from your parenting journey? What if the secret to a peaceful home wasn't stricter rules, but simply predictable rhythms? In this empowering episode of The Rising Parent Podcast, Tim and Edna reveal the transformative power of routines for children of all ages. Drawing from over 20 years of childcare and coaching experience, they break down why routines are not about rigid, color-coded spreadsheets, but about creating a profound sense of safety and freedom for your kids. Discover how simple, tailored daily rhythms can drastically reduce anxiety, soothe transitions, and bring harmony back to your household. Throughout the episode, Tim and Edna explore practical strategies to help your family thrive. You will learn how to navigate tricky transitions using visual schedules and music, understand the neurobiology behind a successful sleep routine, and handle inevitable routine regressions with grace. They also discuss why you must avoid the social media comparison trap and design a routine that honors your family's unique lifestyle, incorporating essential micro-moments of connection. If you find value in this episode, please consider supporting our nonprofit mobile food bank, Selfless Outreach, by visiting selflessoutreach.org to make a donation. Thank you for listening, and remember to visit RisingParent.org for more resources and support on your parenting journey. #ParentingTips #ToddlerLife #BedtimeRoutine #ParentingPodcast #RisingParent #MomLife #DadLife #GentleParenting

    The Importance of Routine for Kids: End Bedtime Battles and Morning Meltdowns
  8. Jul 24

    10 Essential Tools for Special Needs Caregiver Organization

    Drowning in IEP drafts, therapy schedules, and endless medical bills? You are not alone, and there is a beautiful way to find calm in the chaos. In this highly requested episode of The Rising Parent Podcast, Tim and Edna dive into the ultimate survival guide for special needs parents. Raising a neurodivergent or medically complex child often feels like running a small corporation completely on your own. But you don't have to live in crisis mode! This inspiring episode is designed to empower you with practical, actionable strategies that will transform your overwhelming to-do list into a confident, streamlined caregiving routine. Take a deep breath and let us help you regain your peace of mind. Join us as we break down the 10 essential tools for special needs caregiver organization. We cover everything from building the ultimate Master IEP and Medical Binder to setting up bulletproof medication management systems and creating visual schedules that help prevent meltdowns. You will also learn how to advocate fiercely for your child using communication logs and an About Me One-Pager, plus why scheduling your own respite care is an absolute must. If this podcast has helped your family, please consider paying it forward by donating to our non-profit mobile food bank, Selfless Outreach, at selflessoutreach.org. For more resources, remember to visit RisingParent.org. #SpecialNeedsParenting #CaregiverSupport #IEPMeeting #Neurodivergent #AutismMom #SpecialNeedsAdvocacy #ParentingPodcast #CaregiverBurnout #RisingParent

    10 Essential Tools for Special Needs Caregiver Organization

About

Master toddler tantrums, navigate screen time, and survive the fourth trimester without losing your mind. The Rising Parent Podcast is a practical guide to positive parenting and child development, hosted by Certified Parenting Coaches Edna and Tim. Ditch the rigid rules and parental guilt. Tune in twice a week for actionable hacks on emotional intelligence, newborn essentials, postpartum mental health, and stress-free discipline. Go from surviving to thriving—subscribe today to build a calm, connected, and emotionally supportive home.