From gentle parenting to strict rules about screen time, today’s parents are constantly bombarded with advice about the “right” way to raise their kids. But how much of that advice is actually supported by research?

In this special Summer Hot Takes episode, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with developmental psychologist, bestselling author, and Raising Good Humans podcast host Dr. Aliza Pressman to explore some of parenting’s most talked-about topics. Together, they discuss why it’s important for any approach to be rooted in science, how authoritative parenting (not to be confused with the harder-to-define gentle parenting) balances warmth with boundaries, and how families can develop healthier relationships with technology.

They also talk about the importance of letting kids experience disappointment, navigate failure, and learn from difficult emotions without treating every feeling like an emergency. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Dave and Dr. Pressman remind parents that thoughtful, flexible parenting is the goal, not perfection.

In this episode, they cover:

• What people often mean when they talk about “gentle parenting” and common misunderstandings about the term
• What authoritative parenting is and why it remains one of the most evidence-supported parenting approaches
• Practical ways to create healthier screen habits for children and teens
• Why boredom, waiting, and feeling lonely sometimes can help kids build resilience and independence
• How to help kids tolerate disappointment, failure, and rejection

Key takeaways

• Healthy screen habits focus on balance, connection, and intentional use.
• Kids benefit from experiencing age-appropriate disappointment and failure.
• Parents don’t need to solve every emotion immediately to support emotional health.
• Parenting trends come and go, but warmth combined with clear boundaries remains the most effective approach.

Further reading from the Child Mind Institute

· Helping Kids With Flexible Thinking

· Three Common Parenting Traps

· How to Set Limits on Screen Time

More from Dr. Aliza Pressman

· Raising Good Humans With Dr. Aliza (podcast)

· The 5 Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans