The path to calm, confident, and in-control parenting starts now. The Play Therapy Parenting Podcast is hosted by Dr. Brenna Hicks, The Kid Counselor®. All con...
S2E34 - Winning the Bedtime Battle: How to End the Nightly Fight
In this episode, I answer a question from Lauren, a mom struggling with her almost 3-year-old’s intense attachment to her father. Her daughter experiences severe separation anxiety, especially at bedtime, making it nearly impossible for mom to comfort her without dad’s presence. I walk through why this attachment has developed and what steps Lauren (and any parent in a similar situation) can take to break the cycle. From setting clear boundaries to using the "be-with" attitudes and remaining neutral through emotional storms, I offer a step-by-step approach to help children learn self-regulation while preserving the parent-child relationship. If bedtime battles are a challenge in your home, I hope this episode serves you! Ask Me Questions: Call (813) 812-5525, or email: [email protected] Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/ My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/ My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/ Common References: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
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21:15
S2E33 - Biting, Aggression, and Emotional Overwhelm: Why Kids Act Out During Life Transitions—And How to Help
In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I respond to a heartfelt question from Heather, a mom navigating divorce while helping her young child through big emotions and challenging behaviors like aggression and biting. I discuss how changes in relationships—such as a deployed parent, a changing caregiver, or shifting custody arrangements—can deeply impact a child's sense of stability and security. I explain why behaviors like biting and aggression often stem from emotional overwhelm rather than defiance and share practical, child-centered strategies to help guide children through these struggles. I also walk through limit-setting techniques that preserve the parent-child relationship while teaching emotional regulation and self-control. From handling aggression in the moment to reinforcing choices and natural consequences, I provide a clear framework for parents to set boundaries with confidence and consistency. If you're struggling with similar challenges, this episode will give you the tools to respond with empathy, structure, and intentionality. Ask Me Questions: Call (813) 812-5525, or email: [email protected] Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/ My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/ My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/ Common References: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
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19:21
S2E32 - Raising Kids Who Self-Regulate: A New Parenting Series
In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I kick off a new series on raising kids who self-regulate. Power struggles and control grabs are common challenges in parenting, but they often undermine the parent-child relationship. I discuss why the ultimate goal is not controlling your child’s behavior but teaching parents a new way to interact with their kids that fosters self-regulation. I introduce the key concept that children learn self-regulation by being given the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions, rather than having their behavior controlled by adults. Through this series, I’ll share practical, tangible strategies to help parents foster emotional vocabulary, self-regulation, and autonomy in their kids. Together, we’ll work toward happier homes and stronger relationships. Ask Me Questions: Call (813) 812-5525, or email: [email protected] Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/ My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/ My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/ Common References: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
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11:09
S2E31 - Transforming Mornings with Choices and Consequences
In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I respond to an insightful email from Laura in the UK, who is navigating challenges with her 10-year-old son. Laura shares concerns about his lack of intrinsic motivation, his struggle with self-worth, and their morning routine battles. I explain how to encourage intrinsic motivation by using neutral encouragement paired with reflective statements, and how to avoid praise, which can often backfire. For improving self-worth, I discuss strategies like coupling affirmations with validations and addressing the internal dialogue that drives resistance. Finally, I outline a step-by-step approach to transforming the morning routine, using choices tied to immediate, meaningful consequences. This episode offers practical, actionable tips for empowering children while building their confidence and autonomy. Ask Me Questions: Call (813) 812-5525, or email: [email protected] Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/ My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/ My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/ Common References: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
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24:42
S2E30 - Reflecting Feelings and Giving Choices: Tips for Overcoming Resistance
In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I respond to Alison’s questions about handling two common parenting challenges: when kids reject reflecting feelings and when they power-struggle choice-giving. Alison shares her frustrations with her son covering his ears and yelling, “Stop talking!” during feeling reflections and refusing choices during mealtime. I explain why this resistance is normal, especially when children are uncomfortable with new strategies, and how to stay consistent in your approach. I offer practical tips for navigating these power struggles, such as softening your tone, using patience, and staying neutral when your child eventually makes a choice. Remember, consistency is key—by sticking with these methods, your child will develop emotional vocabulary, self-regulation, and decision-making skills. Ask Me Questions: Call (813) 812-5525, or email: [email protected] Podcast HQ: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/ My Newsletter Signup: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/newsletter/ My Podcast Partner, Gabb Wireless: https://www.playtherapyparenting.com/gabb/ Common References: Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
The path to calm, confident, and in-control parenting starts now. The Play Therapy Parenting Podcast is hosted by Dr. Brenna Hicks, The Kid Counselor®. All content, no fluff.
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