Peace and Parenting: How to Parent without Punishments

Michelle Kenney, M. Ed
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  • PARENTING
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Peace and Parenting: How to Parent without Punishments
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Have you tried Gentle Parenting? Are you a fan of Attachment but just can’t put it all together? Are you sick of parenting with the ideas of yelling and shame and looking for something that feels better, is different, but still has a sense of boundaries and limits? Welcome to the Peace and Parenting Podcast with Michelle Kenney, M. Ed. Michelle is a former teacher, counselor, certified parenting coach, mom of two teens, recovering yeller, and perfectionist who parents without using punishments altogether. And guess what? It works! On this show, you’ll learn the how behind having kids who are completely UNPUNISHED but who are also successful, kind, loving, and know how to follow directions. Twice a week, Michelle shares her insights and expertise on connective parenting through her interviews with experts and Q&A sessions with struggling parents. If you have exhausted all other options and don't know what to do next, this could be the parenting strategy you've been searching for.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Why Your To-Do List Is Hurting Your Parenting

    Do you ever feel like there’s just not enough time for connection? Between work, household tasks, and never-ending to-do lists, it’s easy to let quality time with our kids slip to the bottom of our priorities. But what if I told you that focusing on connection first actually makes everything else run smoother? Today, I’m exploring a mindset shift that can transform parenting, prioritizing connection over productivity. We live in a world that glorifies busyness, but at what cost? I explore why deep, meaningful relationships with our kids should come first and how that shift leads to more cooperation, smoother days, and stronger bonds. Listen in for five ways to ensure connection is an integral part of your parenting.  In This Episode Why busyness isn’t the same as successThe power of prioritizing connection firstHow natural consequences teach better than punishmentsWhy homework shouldn’t take priority over relationshipsThe long-term benefits of focusing on connection ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    13 min

  2. 4 DAYS AGO

    Case Study: What If Your Teen Doesn’t Want Connection?

    What if your teen rejected every attempt at connection? You’ve ditched punishments and bribes, but now your child is pushing back harder than ever. Is it even working? Today, I sit down with Tova, a mother of four, who’s navigating the tricky transition from traditional parenting to connection-based parenting, especially with her resistant teens. Tova has seen beautiful changes in her younger twins since implementing connective parenting, but her older teen daughters aren’t responding the same way. We dive deep into why trust takes time, what “progress” really looks like, and how to stay the course when your teen meets your efforts with eye rolls and rejection. I share my personal experiences raising teens, offering strategies that shift the dynamic. If you've ever felt stuck wondering whether connection is really working, this episode is for you. In This Episode Why teens resist connection at firstSigns that your approach is workingHow to stay patient through rejectionUsing humor to defuse power strugglesThe problem with punishments and bribesBuilding true cooperation in your home ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    21 min

  3. FEB 13

    Why Connective Parenting Feels Like It's Failing (and How to Make It Work)

    Ever feel like connection-based parenting just isn’t working? You try play, empathy, and special time, but your child still melts down, refuses to listen, or lashes out. Does that mean connective parenting has failed? Today, I break down the biggest misconceptions about connective parenting, including why it’s often confused with permissiveness, why quick fixes don’t work, and why consistency matters more than perfection. If you've ever wondered why punishments seem to “work” faster or felt frustrated that your efforts aren’t yielding immediate results, this episode will help you reframe your expectations and find the patience to stick with it. Parenting is a long game, and while the process can be messy, the relationships we build through connection are worth it. In This Episode Why quick fixes don’t create lasting changeThe difference between connection and permissivenessHow punishments create short-term compliance, not true cooperationWhy using all the tools consistently is keyThe long-term benefits of choosing connectionA real-life story of connection turning conflict into cooperation ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    19 min

  4. FEB 11

    Case Study: Lessons from Our First Certification Cohort

    Are traditional parenting strategies leaving you frustrated? In this episode, I sit down with Erica, a relationship coach, adoptive mom, and one of the first graduates of the Peace and Parenting Certification Program. Erica shares how shifting from consequences to connection has transformed her family and her coaching practice. Throughout our conversation, we dive into the challenges of unlearning traditional discipline methods, the importance of play in fostering attachment, and how this approach is particularly impactful for adoptive families. Erica opens up about the struggles and breakthroughs in her parenting journey—how moving away from punishments led to stronger bonds, and how her husband’s relationship with their children has flourished through simple but powerful shifts in connection. If you’ve ever doubted whether prioritizing connection over control can truly work, this episode will inspire you. You’ll hear real-life experiences, tangible takeaways, and insights from our certification program that could change the way you parent. In This Episode How connection reshaped Erica’s parentingThe role of play in building attachmentWhy punishments and rewards don’t workThe transformation in Erica’s family dynamicsInsights from the Peace and Parenting certificationHow parenting support reduces shame and isolation ======== 🔗 Become a Certified Peace and Parenting Coach and empower parents to transform their homes with connection, empathy, and understanding. 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    13 min

  5. FEB 6

    System Restraint Collapse: The Hidden Cause of Your Child’s After-School Meltdowns

    Have you ever wondered why your child seems to hold it together all day but falls apart the moment they get home? Today, we explore the concept of system restraint collapse and how understanding this phenomenon can help us better support our children. I share my personal experience with my freshman daughter, Esme, and a recent surprising event during the holidays where I discovered that even older kids can experience system restraint collapse. Plus, I’ll offer some practical ways to help minimize system restraint collapse with your own children, ensuring you support them in the healthiest way possible.  In This Episode What is system restraint collapse?Handling after-school meltdowns with calmStrategies to stay regulated ourselvesThe role of empathy in parentingAvoiding shame during emotional outburstsImportance of presence over discussion during tantrums ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    20 min

  6. FEB 4

    Case Study: How Becoming a Parenting Coach Transformed My Relationship with My Kids

    What transformative journey led this mom from sleepless nights with her newborn to becoming a parenting coach? Today, I chat with our brand new Peace and Parenting coach, Cammie, about her path from frustration to connection. She opens up about her experiences with her two young children and the profound lessons she learned through our Connected Parent Mastermind program. Cammie shares how embracing play and laughter has revolutionized her approach to parenting, enabling her to connect on a deeper level with her children. Plus, we’ll explore her transformation and how the Peace and Parenting Certification Program equipped her with new tools and perspectives, ultimately leading her to become a coach herself.  In This Episode: Embracing play and laughter in parentingUnderstanding different emotional expressions in childrenInsights from the Connected Parent MastermindThe journey from client to coachBenefits of the Peace and Parenting Certification Program Become a Certified Peace and Parenting Coach and empower parents to transform their homes with connection, empathy, and understanding. Join my Connected Parent Mastermind designed for parents who want to strengthen their connection with their children, experience more love, and reduce frustration. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up now if you're interested. ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min

  7. JAN 30

    The Secret to Making Discipline Fun

    Imagine replacing threats, bribes, and punishments with laughter, games, and fun interactions. Today, I share with you the transformative power of play in fostering a deeper connection with our children and reshaping how we discipline them. Today, we explore why play is not just an enjoyable activity but a crucial element in our parenting toolkit that helps maintain a calm and connected family environment. Let’s challenge the conventional wisdom around discipline and embrace a method that brings joy and learning to both us and our children. In This Episode: The power of play in teaching childrenReplacing threats with playful strategiesPersonal experiences in using play effectivelyOvercoming barriers to playful discipline Thank you for listening to the Peace and Parenting podcast. If you want to dive deeper into these concepts, consider joining our Connected Parent Mastermind. You can learn more by reaching out to me at michelle@peaceandparentingla.com or by clicking on the link. Together, let’s cultivate a nurturing and playful home. ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    14 min

  8. JAN 28

    Case Study: Help, My Kid Is Aggressive at School

    What hidden struggles are fueling your child's aggression? Have you ever wondered why your child might be acting out aggressively? What if the answer lies not in the child but in how we, as parents, respond to them? In this episode of the Peace and Parenting podcast, I help Melanie and Michael, a loving couple struggling with their four-year-old son's aggressive tendencies towards his schoolmate and younger brother. Melanie and Michael share their journey of grappling with their son's aggression, their attempts at various disciplinary methods, and their concerns about possibly overlooking ADHD traits. We explore the impact of shifting from traditional punitive measures to a more empathetic, connection-centered approach. Could making these slight yet significant changes help in calming their child’s aggression? In This Episode: Responding to aggressive behavior with connectionAvoiding positive reinforcement and rewardsEnhancing connection through affection and playManaging sensitive children’s behaviorReducing sibling rivalry with empathy ======== 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today. 💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review. 📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED! Follow Peace and Parenting: YouTube: @peaceandparentingla Instagram: @peaceandparenting Facebook: @peaceandparentingla Peace and Parenting Facebook Group Join my Connected Parent Mastermind and become the parent you want to be: https://peaceandparentingla.com/connected-parent Did you miss the Organic Cooperation Event? Check out the replays here: https://peaceandparentingla.com/cooperation-event-replay-signup Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    21 min
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Have you tried Gentle Parenting? Are you a fan of Attachment but just can’t put it all together? Are you sick of parenting with the ideas of yelling and shame and looking for something that feels better, is different, but still has a sense of boundaries and limits? Welcome to the Peace and Parenting Podcast with Michelle Kenney, M. Ed. Michelle is a former teacher, counselor, certified parenting coach, mom of two teens, recovering yeller, and perfectionist who parents without using punishments altogether. And guess what? It works! On this show, you’ll learn the how behind having kids who are completely UNPUNISHED but who are also successful, kind, loving, and know how to follow directions. Twice a week, Michelle shares her insights and expertise on connective parenting through her interviews with experts and Q&A sessions with struggling parents. If you have exhausted all other options and don't know what to do next, this could be the parenting strategy you've been searching for.

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