Dam Parenting

In this episode, Eva and Maren are joined by Faye from Kerr Psychology, who dive into the fascinating journey of a child’s developing sense of self. Did you know that around the age of 4, children start to compare themselves with others, and by age 7, they become fully aware of differences? As caregivers, we play a powerful role in guiding how children perceive themselves and their abilities. Our tool? Resilience. Together, they explore the profound impact of nurturing a growth mindset over a fixed one, helping children see that effort shapes their outcomes. From encouraging intrinsic motivation to embracing challenges, learn how to shift your child’s self-belief from “I can’t” to “I can’t...yet!” Discover how simple words, the right kind of praise, and focusing on effort over results can transform a child’s confidence. They also discuss the importance of uninterrupted, child-led playtime, especially during transitions, and how helping your child build a vocabulary for emotions can lead to healthier self-expression. Packed with practical tips, like reframing “don’t” statements, creating a toolbox for emotional management, and teaching them to see challenges as growth opportunities—this episode is a must-listen for every caregiver looking to raise resilient, motivated, and emotionally intelligent children. Join Faye, Eva, and Maren as together they unpack the insights and strategies that empower our children to thrive today and long into the future.

What’s the rush? In this episode, Montessori expert Simone Davies joins Maren and Eva to discuss the power of slowing down in parenting. She shares how letting children explore at their own pace can turn everyday moments—like a walk down the street—into discovery adventures. Simone offers simple, mindful ideas that parents can use to nurture curiosity and independence. Montessori principles, she explains, make it easier to support children’s natural learning without overwhelming ourselves. Simone reminds us that Montessori is a journey for parents, too, requiring patience, a sense of curiosity, and the right community to support us. From adjusting activities to match a child’s needs to modeling calm and presence, Simone shows how even small changes can transform our routines and foster more meaningful family connections. With her practical tips, this episode helps set up a home environment that balances freedom and boundaries, bringing more joy and ease to parenting.

It's bookclub time again, and this time Elizabeth is bringing the well known How to talk to kids so they will listen, and listen so they will talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish. Breaking down their take aways, learnings and their opinion on it´s relevancy after it had been published for the first time 40 years ago. For more additional info, check out our IG: https://www.instagram.com/damparentingpodcast/

It’s been one whole year since Dam Parenting launched into this podcasting journey—two moms who were going through it, joining forces to make parenting a little easier for those who follow. Knowing how exhausting it is for parents to constantly dig up the same information, wasting precious time and energy on repeated research of the Dutch system. So, that’s how Dam Parenting was born: a space to share essential information and practical guidance, all with the help of trusted local professionals and the voices of our international community. Creating the podcast was one thing, but how to launch it? Thats where the wonderful Gemma from MamaSocial came in. She herself created MamaSocial from her own experience of wanting a more social matresence experience she has created the most popular meet up events for mothers - the brunches, cocktails, networking, and even day retreat. Together, Dam parenting podcast was announced to a room of 20 other mothers. Dam Parenting has covered everything, from pregnancy essentials and understanding the Dutch healthcare system with verloskundigen (midwives) and kraamzorgs (maternity nurses), to invaluable conversations with Dr. Naomi Gibson, a psychologist our community trusts. Bringing in diverse voices and experts to share insights on topics close to every parent’s heart—sleepless nights, food allergies, relationship hurdles, gentle parenting, and even raising multilingual kids within the Dutch school system. Month by month, Dam Parenting highlights critical topics, from maternal mental health and the process of matrescence to back-to-school stress and, this month, ADHD. Our message? You’re not alone. Someone has been there, is there now, or will be. We’re here to give you the support and resources you need in a digestible, accessible format. So grab your earbuds, bring the baby for a walk, let your toddler roam the playground, or take us along on your bike ride to work. Dam Parenting is here to make the journey of being an international family in the Netherlands a little lighter and a lot more connected.