028- Single Parenting Intense Kids with Dr Gila

Welcome back to "Parenting the Intensity!"

In this episode we have on parenting coach and neuropsychologist, Dr. Gila, to talk with us about the unique challenges faced by single parents (but don't run if you are not a single parent, there so many things that apply to everyone). Gila shares insights on the importance of self-care, decision-making, and handling intense moments with kids when you are alone with them. With her expertise and personal experience as a single parent, Dr Gila offers valuable advice, practical tips, and resources to help single parents navigate the complexities of raising intense kids. Join us as we explore the strategies and support that can make a positive impact in single parenting emotionally intense kids.

3 key takeaways:

1️⃣ Self-Care for Single Parents: Dr Gila emphasizes the importance of self-care for single parents, highlighting that taking time for oneself is essential for being able to show up for their children. She encourages single parents to seek support from sources other than a romantic partner for decision-making and recommends journaling as a way to process thoughts and emotions.

2️⃣Emotional Regulation and Connection: Dr Gila uses the metaphor of a sink to explain emotional regulation, emphasizing the need to recognize when the "sink" is getting full. She advises parents to prioritize actions aligned with family values and to understand each child's unique needs for emotional regulation. Gila also emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and validation in building a connection with children.

3️⃣ Grounding Techniques and Parenting Strategies: Dr Gila provides grounding techniques for parents, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and patience in responding to intense emotions and strong wills in children. She advocates for compromising and changing positions when necessary, and highlights the importance of being present with the child, even if it means not meeting external time pressures.

"One of the best things that you can do for your kids is to take care of yourself. If your sink is nice and taken care of, then you can show up for them in the way that they need."

Connect with Dr Gila:

Links: 

Website: www.connectionbasedparenting.com  

IG: www.instagram.com/drgila_parenting  

FB: www.facebook.com/drgilaparenting/  

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@drgila_parenting

Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for future episodes and leave a rating and review, that helps us get in front of more parents. Don't forget to check out the resources mentioned on our website at www.parentingtheintensity.ca

Join the "Parenting the Intensity Community" to find the right things that works for YOUR child and adapt them to YOUR reality.

To be able to enjoy your life and kids, not always being afraid of the next outburst

Take a deep breath, keep going, we’re all in this together!

Music by Oleksii Kaplunskyi from Pixabay