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  • How to Raise Confident, Independent Kids (Neurodiverse & Neurotypical) Without Helicopter Parenting
    2025/09/15

    How can parents raise confident, independent kids without helicopter parenting? In this episode, we break down what helicopter parenting looks like, why it happens, and how it can affect kids’ confidence, self-esteem, and anxiety.

    We share real-life examples of how to build independence step by step — from ordering food to handling chores, homework, and advocating at school. With a focus on both neurotypical and neurodiverse kids, we explore simple strategies like visual checklists, role-playing, and breaking tasks into manageable steps to help children thrive with confidence and resilience.

    What You’ll Learn:

    • Everyday signs of helicopter parenting
    • How overparenting fuels anxiety and low self-esteem
    • Ways to balance safety with independence
    • Practical scaffolding for neurodiverse children

    ✨ Whether your child is neurotypical or neurodiverse, this episode offers tools to help them grow into capable, self-reliant young adults.

    🔗 Connect with Us:
    🌐 themothersonpodcast.com

    📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast

    ▶️ YouTube: @themother-sonpodcast

    Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it helps other parents discover The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake! 💛

    📚 References

    • Aldao, A., et al. (2010). Emotion regulation strategies across psychopathology: A meta-analytic review. Clinical Psychology Review.
    • Carr, A. et al. (2021). Excessive parental control and child independence.
    • Cisler, J. M. et al. (2010). Emotion regulation and anxiety. Journal of Anxiety Disorders.
    • Grolnick, W. S. (2003). The psychology of parental control: How well-meant parenting backfires. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
    • Gross, J. J. (2015). Emotion regulation: Current status and future prospects. Psychological Inquiry.
    • Moè, A., & Katz, I. (2021). Autonomy-supportive parenting and adaptive emotion regulation strategies.
    • Plante, T. G., PhD, ABPP. (2011, October 17). In Defense of Helicopter Parents. Psychology Today.
    • Renault, C. et al. (2023). Helicopter parenting, psychological needs frustration, and anxiety.
    • Riediger, M., & Klipker, K. (2014). Emotion regulation in adolescence.
    • Robazza, C. et al. (2023). Psychological needs satisfaction and emotion regulation in adolescence.
    • Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist.
    • Sadoughi, M. (2024). Overparenting and adolescent anxiety. Acta Psychologica.
    • Sadoughi, M. (2024). Overparenting and adolescent’s trait anxiety: Unraveling the roles of basic psychological needs frustration and emotion dysregulation. Acta Psychologica, 251, 104579. Elsevier.
    • Schäfer, J. O., et al. (2017). Emotion regulation and risk for anxiety disorders.
    • Schiffrin, H. H., et al. (2021). Helicopter parenting and anxiety.
    • Soenens, B., & Vansteenkiste, M. (2010). A theoretical upgrade of the concept of parental psychological control: Proposing new insights on the basis of self-determination theory. Developmental Review.
    • Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Ten Ways to Build Independence.


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    24 分
  • 👻 Do you believe in ghosts? Stories, Spirits & a Real EVP We Captured | Spooky Season Special!🎃
    2025/09/08

    This week, we’re stepping away from our usual parenting and teen-focused topics for a fun one-off “spooky season” episode. With Halloween just around the corner, Kim and Jake explore the world of ghosts, spirits, EVP recordings, poltergeists, visitation dreams—and even what brain scans reveal about psychic experiences.

    ⚠️ Listener discretion advised: This episode includes discussions about ghosts and paranormal experiences, which may be unsettling for younger or sensitive listeners.

    And here’s the wildest part—we even play back a real EVP (electronic voice phenomenon) we captured while recording a past episode of our podcast. Was it a glitch? A ghost? You’ll have to listen and decide for yourself.

    From ghost tours in Jerome, AZ to unexplained happenings at home, we share our own stories, discuss expert research on paranormal belief, and dig into fascinating fMRI studies on psychic mediums. Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or just here for the spooky vibes, this special Halloween episode blends science, storytelling, and a dash of the supernatural.

    🔗 Find us here:
    🌐 Website: www.themothersonpodcast.com

    📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast

    ▶️ YouTube: The Mother-Son Podcast

    References & Sources

    • Oxford Languages – Definitions of ghost and apparition

    • Cassie Uhl – Residual Energy vs. Spirits

    • Centre of Excellence – Poltergeists: Meaning, Signs & Stories

    • Chris & Sheila – Ghost vs Spirit vs Wraith vs Poltergeist vs Phantom

    • McNamara, P. (2018, June 29). Visitation Dreams II: Dreams of the Bereaved. Psychology Today – Dream Catcher Blog. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/dream-catcher/201806/visitation-dreams-ii-dreams-the-bereaved

    • Jim Harold’s The Paranormal Podcast

    • fMRI & Psychic Research:
      • Peres, J. F. P., et al. (2011). “Neuroimaging during trance state: a contribution to the study of dissociation.” PLOS One

      • Narmashiri, A., Hatami, J., & Khosrowabadi, R. (2023). “Paranormal believers show reduced resting EEG beta-band oscillations and inhibitory control than skeptics.” Scientific Reports
        %20in%20the%20present%20study.)
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    28 分
  • How to Raise Confident Kids: Self-Esteem Tips for Parents of Neurodiverse & Neurotypical Children
    2025/09/01

    Confidence is more than just a feeling — it’s the foundation for resilience, learning, relationships, and mental health. Yet for many children, especially neurodiverse kids with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing differences, building self-esteem can feel like climbing a mountain.

    In this in-depth episode of The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake, we spend time exploring how parents can help their kids — both neurotypical and neurodiverse — grow into confident, resilient young people.

    We cover:
    ✅ Why neurodiverse kids are at higher risk for low self-esteem
    ✅ The science of self-esteem and why it matters for lifelong wellbeing
    ✅ 12 expert-backed tips for raising confident kids (Child Mind Institute)
    ✅ Real-life strategies parents can use daily — like affirmations, journaling, memory boxes, and “Walls of Fame”
    ✅ How confidence protects children from bullying and negative peer pressure
    ✅ The role of unconditional love and modeling resilience as a parent
    ✅ Hands-on tools, from PositivePsychology.com activities to Big Life Journal strategies
    ✅ Free and low-cost resources for parents (Outschool, Child Mind Institute, Sesame Street, libraries, and more)

    Whether your child is shy, struggles with perfectionism, or faces the added challenges of being neurodiverse, this episode offers practical takeaways to help them see their worth, celebrate effort, and face the world with courage.

    🎙 Follow us on Instagram: @themothersonpodcast

    🌐 Visit our website: www.themothersonpodcast.com

    📺 Watch episodes on YouTube: @themothersonpodcast

    Don't forget to give us a 5-star rating! It really helps.

    📚 References & Resources

    • Martin, A. (n.d.). Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder and How It Can Impact a Child’s Social and Emotional Development. GenMindful. Retrieved from genmindful.com

    • Child Mind Institute. (n.d.). 12 Tips for Raising Confident Kids. Retrieved from childmind.org

    • Big Life Journal. (n.d.). Activities and Printables for Kids’ Confidence. Retrieved from biglifejournal.com
    • Outschool.com

    • PositivePsychology.com. (n.d.). Self-Esteem Worksheets for Kids and Teens. Retrieved from positivepsychology.com

    • Sesame Street in Communities. (n.d.). Self-Confidence Resources. Retrieved from sesamestreetincommunities.org

    • Zakreski, M. (2024). Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World. Retrieved from drmattzakreski.com
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    34 分
  • Answering Your Questions: ADHD, Parenting, Bloopers & Behind the Scenes
    2025/08/25

    You asked—we answered! In this special listener Q&A episode of The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake, we dive into the questions you’ve sent us through our website and social media. From the story of how we started the podcast, to Jacob’s experiences with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, to behind-the-scenes bloopers, this episode is filled with honesty, laughter, and real talk about parenting, teens, and growing up.

    What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

    • 🎧 How Kim and Jacob decided to start the podcast—and what it’s like to record as a mother-son team.
    • 🧠 Jacob’s perspective on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and how neurodiversity shapes his daily life.
    • 🎤 The behind-the-scenes truth about editing, scripting, and dividing up the podcast work.
    • 😂 Listener-favorite moments, including Jacob’s beatboxing, silly bloopers, and his big "but" joke.
    • 👩‍👦 Honest reflections on parenting, giving kids independence, and learning to listen.
    • 🔮 A sneak peek at upcoming topics, including independence, resilience, decision-making, and even a spooky “EVP” mystery episode.

    Whether you’re a parent looking for practical insight, a teen searching for relatability, or someone who just wants a laugh, this Q&A episode has something for everyone. Thank you to our listeners for submitting your thoughtful, funny, and heartfelt questions—we love hearing from you!

    🔗 References & Ways to Connect

    • 🌐 Website: www.themothersonpodcast.com

    • 📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast

    • ▶️ YouTube: The Mother-Son Podcast

    • 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts! Apple, Spotify, Audible... wherever! Leave us a 5 Star Review! It really does help.

    💬 Have show ideas or want your question answered in a future episode? Send it to us through our website or DM us on Instagram!

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    22 分
  • Back-to-School Stress? ADHD, Autism, and Tips Every Student, Parent & Teacher Can Use
    2025/08/17

    Back-to-school season is stressful for every family — new routines, homework battles, and busy schedules can overwhelm even the most organized kids. But for students with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), those challenges are multiplied. Impulse control, organization, and social struggles can make the classroom feel like a minefield — and leave parents and teachers frustrated too.

    In this episode of The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake, we talk about real strategies that help all kids. From positive reinforcement and classroom tips to self-advocacy and confidence-building, we share what works for neurodiverse learners and how these same approaches reduce stress and build success for neurotypical kids and families too.

    Jacob shares his honest experiences with blurting answers, social struggles, and classroom challenges — and why it’s not about being a “bad kid,” but about brain differences that make impulse control and organization tough. Kim adds insights from research and resources like ADDitude Magazine’s Experts Podcast (Episode #568 with Dr. Steven Evans), which highlights evidence-based strategies that work better than punishment or public reprimands.

    Together, we explore practical, real-world solutions for parents, teachers, and kids, including:
    ✅ Positive reinforcement & behavior-specific praise
    ✅ Pre-correction and active supervision
    ✅ Visual schedules, self-monitoring, and movement breaks
    ✅ Role-playing and self-advocacy strategies for kids
    ✅ Why avoiding public shaming and punitive discipline is critical

    We also talk about The Anti-Planner by Dani Donovan — a creative tool for kids (and adults) who struggle with procrastination and motivation — and why teaching self-advocacy may be the most powerful skill of all.

    Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, this episode offers humor, hope, and evidence-based strategies to help make the school year less stressful and more successful.

    🔗 Find us here:
    🌐 Website: www.themothersonpodcast.com
    📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast
    ▶️ YouTube: The Mother-Son Podcast


    📚 Sources & References Mentioned in the Episode
    1. ADDitude Magazine – Neuroscience of ADHD Brain
      https://www.additudemag.com/neuroscience-of-adhd-brain/#:~:text=ADHD%20brains%20have%20low%20levels,functional%20regions%20of%20the%20brain
    2. ADDitude Experts Podcast – Episode #568
      “Social Skills & Executive Functions in Teens with ADHD: Interventions That Help” – Dr. Steven Evans
    3. Donovan, Dani – The Anti-Planner: How to Get Stuff Done When You Don’t Feel Like It
      https://anti-planner.com/shop/the-anti-planner-how-to-get-sht-done-when-you-dont-feel-like-it/
    4. American Academy of Pediatrics – Policy Statement (2018):
      Effective Discipline to Raise Healthy Children
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    25 分
  • Bullying & Cyberbullying: How to Spot It, Stop It, and Support Your Teen
    2025/08/10

    In this episode of The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake, we dive deep into the topic of bullying — from the perspective of the person being bullied and the person doing the bullying. Using research and advice from StopBullying.gov and StompOutBullying.org, we share:

    • The official definition of bullying and the key signs that distinguish it from a one-time conflict.
    • Personal stories about being bullied and overcoming it.
    • Why kids bully — from insecurity to peer pressure — and how to address it.
    • The roles of bystanders, witnesses, and “outsiders” in bullying situations.
    • How to recognize the warning signs of cyberbullying and what parents can do.
    • Real-world comebacks and humor-based responses that can de-escalate conflict.
    • Strategies for schools, teachers, and sports teams to create safer environments.
    • Actionable steps for parents if their child is bullied — or if their child is the bully.

    Whether you’re a parent, educator, or teen, this episode offers practical advice, empathy-building perspectives, and real strategies to prevent and respond to bullying — in person and online.

    🔗 Connect with The Mother-Son Podcast:

    🌐 Website: https://www.themothersonpodcast.com

    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themothersonpodcast

    ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themother-sonpodcast

    References:

    1. StopBullying.gov. What Is Bullying? U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Retrieved from: https://www.stopbullying.gov
    2. Stomp Out Bullying. Bullying Prevention Resources. Retrieved from: https://www.stompoutbullying.org



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    22 分
  • Helping Teens Cope with Loss: Friend Breakups, Grief, and Big Life Changes (Including Neurodiverse Kids)
    2025/08/04

    Loss is a part of life—but that doesn’t make it easy, especially for kids and teens who feel things deeply. In this heartfelt, (with plenty of funny moments!) episode of The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake, we dive into different kinds of loss—from losing friends, changing schools, and even saying goodbye to loved ones—and how grief can look and feel different for neurodiverse kids.

    Kim and Jake share personal stories, expert insights, and real-life coping strategies to help families navigate loss together. Whether it’s understanding friend breakups, helping kids process emotions, or learning how grief uniquely affects neurodiverse children and teens, this episode offers support, empathy, and practical tools for healing.

    🔑 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    • The many types of loss (beyond death) and how they impact kids and teens
    • Why friend breakups can feel as painful as romantic ones
    • How ADHD and autism can affect grief processing, including Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) and masking
    • Coping strategies for neurodiverse kids dealing with friendship changes or school transitions
    • Expert-backed ways parents can support their children through grief and loss

    📚 Sources & References Mentioned:

    • HelpGuide.org – Understanding Grief: Coping with Loss (Melinda Smith, M.A., Lawrence Robinson, Jeanne Segal, Ph.D.)
    • National Institute on Aging (NIA) – Coping with Grief and Loss
    • YoungMinds.org.uk – Supporting Young People Through Grief and Friendship Loss
    • SimplyPsychology.org – Social Dynamics and Masking in Neurodiverse Teens
    • Relational Psych – ADHD, Rejection Sensitivity, and Friendship Challenges
    • NeurodivergentInsights.com – Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and Emotional Intensity in ADHD
    • The Mini ADHD Coach – Friendships and Emotional Regulation in ADHD
    • Autism.org.uk – Masking and Its Impact on Mental Health
    • Grief Australia / The Neurodivergent Collective – Complicated Grief in Neurodiverse Populations
    • Research by Joseph Gasper on School Mobility and Emotional Impact on Children
    • Lower Cape Fear LifeCare – Healthy Coping Strategies for Grief
    • SBM.org – Impact of Sleep and Physical Activity on Mental Health and Grief Recovery

    🔗 Find Us Here:

    🌐 Website: www.themothersonpodcast.com
    📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast
    🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Click Here
    🎧 Listen on Spotify: Click Here

    Or, 🎧 Wherever you get your podcasts!

    💬 If this episode helped you or someone you love, please share it, subscribe, and leave us a review—it helps more families find conversations like this.

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    41 分
  • Can You Really Choose to Be Happy? A Conversation About Brain Chemistry, Resilience & Real Joy
    2025/07/28

    Happiness sounds simple… until it’s not. In this episode, Kim and Jake unpack whether happiness is a choice or a complex mix of biology, mindset, and circumstances. Featuring research on brain chemistry, gratitude, teen emotions, and even how happiness may extend your life — this episode is packed with insights and real strategies.

    🎧 You’ll learn:

    ✅ How serotonin and dopamine affect your mood
    ✅ Why “just be happy” isn’t helpful — especially for people with depression
    ✅ Real strategies to rewire your brain for happiness
    ✅ How gratitude and optimism create lasting joy
    ✅ The science-backed link between happiness and longer life
    ✅ How teens’ emotional changes relate to brain development

    💬 Connect With Us

    Keep the conversation going and follow us for more insights, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates:

    🌐 Website: www.themothersonpodcast.com
    📸 Instagram: @themothersonpodcast
    ▶️ YouTube: The Mother-Son Podcast Channel

    ⭐️ Enjoying the show? Leave us a 5-star review!

    If you loved this episode and want to support the podcast, the best way to help is by leaving a 5-star rating — it only takes a few seconds!

    👉 Listen & Rate us on Apple Podcasts

    👉 Listen & Rate us on Spotify


    🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

    On your iPhone? Just scroll to the bottom of our show page in Apple Podcasts and tap ‘Write a Review’!

    📚 References (with links)

    1. Shawn Achor & Michelle Gielan – Is Happiness a Choice?
      https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/spotting-opportunity/201705/is-happiness-a-choice
    2. Hannah Owens, LMSW – Why “Happiness Is a Choice” Is a BS Concept
      https://www.verywellmind.com/is-happiness-really-a-choice-8722216
    3. The Jackson Laboratory – Happy or Sad: The Chemistry Behind Depression
      https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression
    4. Emma McAdam, LMFT – How to Be Happier
      https://therapyinanutshell.com/how-to-be-happier
    5. The Sensory Path – Teach Kids How to Find Happiness and Joy
      https://thesensorypath.com/teach-kids-how-to-find-happiness-and-joy
    6. Honey Lake Clinic – Is Depression a Symptom of Puberty?
      https://www.honeylake.clinic/blog/is-depression-a-symptom-of-puberty
    7. NIH – Happiness and Mortality
      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4724393
    8. Centre for Optimism – Optimism and Happiness Connection
      https://www.centreforoptimism.com

    ⚠️ Disclaimer:

    The Mother-Son Podcast shares personal stories and lived experiences. We are not medical professionals, and this episode is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions about ADHD or related conditions.


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    19 分