The first weeks of school can feel like juggling knives while riding a scooter—new schedules, new teachers, and kids running on low sleep and big feelings. We share a Strong Start Strategy that turns that chaos into a steady rhythm your family can count on, with easy routines, thoughtful screen limits, and homework habits that build real independence instead of nightly battles.

We start with the foundation that calms everything else: predictable routines. You’ll hear how to shift bed and wake times without drama, why a quick morning “practice run” lowers first-day friction, and how removing screens from wake-up and setting a tech sunset one to two hours before bed can radically improve focus and sleep. From there, we set up a homework system that works in the real world—quiet, stocked spaces; clear timing that respects your child’s energy; and short, purposeful practice that keeps the habit alive without stealing their childhood.

Then we dig into the parent role. Rather than hovering, we coach kids to think for themselves: let them make mistakes, use the “find one error” prompt, and give feedback with the simple sandwich method so confidence grows with competence. We replace nagging with visual checklists that kids can follow on their own, and we make space for a 15–30 minute after-school decompression that smooths the path to dinner, activities, and bedtime. Finally, we close with weekly family huddles that invite kids into problem-solving, building voice, ownership, and resilience across the year.

If this Strong Start Strategy helps, share it with a parent who could use a calmer afternoon, subscribe for more practical tools, and leave a review so others can find the show. For classes, resources, and the Screen Smart Family workbook, visit yourparentingplaybook.com.

Meltdowns at dinner, endless negotiating, and that nagging sense you’re doing too much yet still not getting through—sound familiar? We take a practical, compassionate look at the four parenting mistakes we see most often and share small, high-impact shifts that calm the chaos and build real connection at home.

First, we unpack inconsistent follow-through and why kids, like tiny scientists, test for weak spots in our rules. You’ll hear how clear expectations and calm, steady action create trust—without lectures or power struggles. Then we tackle the urge to over-explain in heated moments. Through a vivid clinic story (and a few stickers), we show how brief, firm language beats a ten-minute monologue when emotions run high, and why teaching lands better after the storm passes.

Next, we address comparison—the quiet thief of progress. From sibling contrasts to social media highlight reels, we explore how comparison shrinks confidence and stalls growth. Instead, we model process praise, celebrate unique timelines, and reframe “falling behind” as “developing differently.” Finally, we talk about ignoring our own needs and why self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a parenting skill. You’ll leave with a simple plan for one non-negotiable daily habit that refuels your patience, sharpens your responses, and shows your kids what healthy balance looks like.

If you’ve been craving steady, usable tools—not theory—you’ll find them here: hold the line with kindness, use fewer words when it’s hot, stop the compare-and-despair loop, and protect your oxygen mask. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a reset, and leave a review to tell us which small tweak helped most.

In this episode of the Huddle podcast, Dr. Lisa Petit delves into the nuances of Positive Parenting and how it differs from Permissive Parenting. Discover why empathy and connection are essential, but not at the expense of structure and boundaries. Dr. Petit shares real-life examples and practical strategies to help parents navigate the fine line between being supportive and setting limits. Tune in to learn how to be the confident coach your child needs, ensuring they grow up feeling safe, secure, and empowered. Don't miss out on these valuable insights that can transform your parenting approach. Subscribe now!