Middle School Mary Poppins

It’s a new year, so let’s talk about food and feelings—because they’re way more connected than we realize. In this episode, we break down how what you eat can either calm you down or completely throw you off, without diet rules or restriction.This episode dives into the four core emotions—joy, sadness, anger, and fear—and how each one shows up in your body. From why joy just wants to be savored, to why sadness loves soup, why anger needs cooling foods, and why fear sometimes just needs you to eat something, we keep it real and practical.This is an honest, compassionate conversation about emotional eating, stress, and learning how to support your nervous system instead of fighting it.If you’ve ever eaten your feelings, felt overwhelmed, or wondered why certain foods make you feel better (or worse), this episode is for you. Grab a snack, get comfy, and let’s start the year a little more regulated—together.Contact Suzanne Swain:Email: [email protected]: msmarypoppins.comProduced By: StellaMix Podcast ProductionsSend Suzanne a Question or Comment:Support the show

Happy holidays from Middle School Mary Poppins! In this heart-centered episode, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW—your friendly neighborhood kid therapist—dives into a powerful holiday homophone: presents vs. presence. One is wrapped. The other is felt.Suzanne explores why time, attention, and shared experiences often mean more to kids than expensive gifts—and how families can use the holiday season to build gratitude, empathy, and real connection. From low-cost, high-impact traditions (like handmade gifts, wishing stars, love-heart ornaments, and family service projects) to practical ways kids can give back, learn life skills, and feel genuinely valued, this episode is packed with meaningful ideas you can actually use.You’ll also hear personal updates, including a shout-out from Lieutenant Steve and Suzanne’s very real (and very cool) journey into cyborg territory with a robot-assisted, 3D-printed knee replacement—happening the day this episode drops.If you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday pressure, this episode is your reminder that kids want presence over presents—and that the simplest moments often become the most lasting memories.Contact Suzanne Swain:Email: [email protected]: Suzanne SwainProduced By: StellaMix Podcast ProductionSend Suzanne a Question or Comment:Support the show

Sharing a little bit of holiday cheer with you by creating a poem about life in middle school during the holiday season. Hope you enjoy it and happy holidays andMerry Christmas to you all.Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:Support the show

A little poem to you, the listeners, as a special gift for this holiday season. Thank you so much for listening to the podcast and I hope that you’ll continue to share and participate in 2026!www.msmarypoppins.comSend Suzanne a Question or Comment:Support the show

Joy isn’t a reward — it’s a skill.In this episode, Suzanne explores why joy matters for middle schoolers navigating big feelings, growing brains, and constant pressure. Not toxic positivity — real, grounding joy that supports regulation, resilience, and connection.A warm, practical conversation for parents, educators, and families learning how to make space for joy during the messiest years of growing up.Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:Support the show