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.

  1. JAN 27

    Episode 13: Not listening, not getting dressed and tantrums, oh my! - Our most common parenting questions answered

    If your preschooler ignores you, refuses shoes, or collapses into a puddle the moment you say “no,” this episode is for you. We unpack why these behaviors happen, why they happen even more with a strong-willed child, and share practical strategies to help you get back your confidence and your joy in parenting. In this episode, we tackle three of the most common—and exhausting—challenges parents of preschoolers face: not listening, power struggles over everyday routines, and full-blown tantrums when the answer is “no.” Drawing from decades of professional experience and many personal parenting stories, we explore why these behaviors are not signs of “bad parenting,” but normal developmental phases—especially for strong-willed, spirited children. Through real-life examples like refusing to put on shoes, throwing snack wrappers on the floor, and melting down over yogurt before dinner, we break down practical, compassionate strategies that actually work. We discuss why repeating yourself undermines authority, how to set clear limits without punishment, and how calmly following through builds trust, self-esteem, and emotional resilience in young children. This conversation reframes “choosing your battles,” explains why giving in during tantrums backfires, and shows parents how to stay steady in the face of big feelings—without yelling, bribing, or threatening. Most importantly, it reminds parents that enjoying parenting is not only possible, but essential, even when raising a challenging child. If you’ve ever felt worn down by daily power struggles or unsure how to respond when your child tests limits, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and concrete tools to help you parent with confidence and calm. 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! Chapters (00:00:00) - Parenting Matters(00:01:03) - 3 Questions for Parents of Pre-Schoolers(00:07:55) - Don't Ask Your Child to Listen to You(00:13:04) - How to Train a Child's Respect(00:16:48) - When Does My Child Refuse To Put On His Shoes?(00:20:46) - Choosing Your Battles(00:26:17) - Reasons for No-Reaction Decisions(00:30:39) - The T tantrum(00:32:06) - Parenting Matters

    34 min

  2. 12/29/2025

    Episode 12: And Mom and Dad Can Hardly Wait for School to Start Again

    Rebecca and Belann dive into the complexities of sibling dynamics, especially the everyday challenges parents face around bedtime routines, discipline, and perceived fairness. Drawing on real-life examples and practical strategies, they explore how parents can respond with consistency, calmness, and clarity while strengthening sibling relationships. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the impact of parental presence, preparation, and communication on children’s behavior and emotional security. Covered in this episode: Bedtime has been a total circus lately! One will be going to brush his teeth and then the younger one will decide to do a nudy run and then the older who was originally on task, will follow. They are starting to figure out they can team up against us!   My younger sibling weaponizes being the youngest! She screams, gets away with things and I am often at a loss of how to discipline. You never get Rosie in trouble, she’s your favorite-if I did that I would have been in so much trouble-why doesn’t she have a consequence? This episode offers thoughtful insights and actionable tools for parents navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of raising siblings. 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: Real Talk From Kids to Teens(00:01:12) - Sibling Questions(00:01:46) - How To Have Different Bedtimes For Your Child(00:06:16) - How to Deal with an Overwhelmment by Kids(00:10:31) - The Power of Remarks(00:12:29) - Bedtime strategies(00:14:23) - How to Discipline the Younger Sibling ((00:20:06) - You're Worth Your Time(00:22:24) - Sibling Question: Why Doesn't My Daughter Get In Trouble?(00:26:47) - How to Talk to Your Child About Bad Behavior(00:28:02) - How to Build Up a Troublesome Child(00:33:28) - Parenting Matters

    38 min

  3. 11/25/2025

    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

  4. 11/11/2025

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

    10/15/2025

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

    08/17/2025

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

    In this episode of Parenting Matters, the hosts discuss the various transitions children face as they start school, including moving from home care to preschool, changing classrooms, and beginning kindergarten. They provide practical tips for parents to help their children navigate these changes, emphasizing the importance of preparation, emotional support, and fostering independence. The conversation highlights the significance of acknowledging children's feelings while also encouraging them to face their fears and build confidence in new environments. Takeaways Every child transitions differently to school. Creating an experience book can help children adjust. Parents should model calmness to reassure children. Acknowledging a child's feelings is crucial. Bravery is not the absence of fear, but overcoming it. Building a routine can ease morning chaos. Playdates can help children make new friends. Gradually adjusting bedtime routines is important. Children need time to decompress after school. Trusting in a child's ability to adapt is key. 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 group! It’s by word of mouth that our small business grows best!   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

  7. 07/07/2025

    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

  8. 06/29/2025

    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
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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
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Early Childhood Matters
  • Show Website
    Parenting Matters