Parenting in the First 3 Years

How does a good laugh become a powerful ally in the battle against postpartum stress? Motherhood is a mix of joy and stress. Embracing humor can ease postpartum stress, making the journey more enjoyable. Laughter not only relieves stress but also connects you with others through shared experiences. In the chaos of postpartum life, a good laugh lightens the load and brings joy. In this episode, joi...

In this week's episode, host Ann McKitrick sits down with guest, Nate Feathers, as they discuss the evolving role of dads. As a father of 5, he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the table. This episode challenges preconceived notions and ignites a positive change in your approach to parenting or understanding of familial dynamics. Join us as we navigate the landscape of...

The tone we use, our pauses, and our voice's inflection all weave together to create a nuanced backdrop for the messages we convey. Join us in this episode as we explore the world of communication through voice inflection, pausing, and tone. How can parents fine-tune their tone for better communication with their kids? We'll unravel the natural and the not-so-natural, offering insights int...

Which distinct self-care methods have proven to be effective in cultivating a positive mindset, specifically within the realm of motherhood, and what advice is provided for integrating these practices into one's daily routine? In this episode, we hear from Brianna Wilkerson, a Holistic Health and Life Coach about her journey as a mother, focusing on her strategies for keeping a positive mindse...

In this episode, Amy Weber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Parent Coach joins me as we talk about the complexities of parenting and how individuals can break away from the cycles of the way they were raised to find their own unique parenting styles. With the abundance of information available from various sources like books, family advice, and pediatricians, it can be challenging...

In this episode, I am joined by Miranda Rake, a writer at Romper, as we discuss parenting while navigating through the ever-evolving landscape of information and shifts in thinking. We explore the delicate balance between thorough research and everyday practicality to foster the development of our children. Join us as we discuss the integration of fresh perspectives and valuable lessons learned in...

As a mom, prioritizing your health and happiness is essential for your well-being and creating a nurturing environment for your little ones. In this episode, we explore maternal health and well-being with Maria Dior, a seasoned maternal nutrition and fitness professional. She shares actionable strategies for maintaining balance during and after pregnancy, shedding light on common challenges pregna...

In this week's episode, I'll discuss a topic that's close to the hearts of parents everywhere – childcare. Finding the right childcare provider can be daunting, with steep costs and complex choices. I'll share the various types of childcare options available, provide you with five crucial questions to ask when choosing a childcare provider, and share some personal stories to shed l...

How can parents strike the perfect balance between providing stimulating experiences for their little one’s developing brains and ensuring they don't become overwhelmed or overstimulated? In this episode, I am joined by Deborah McNelis, M.Ed, an Early Brain Development Specialist, as she shares about Balance Brain Stimulation, including what it is and its benefits. We share real stories and of...

In this episode, Joanna Clark, a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach, discusses how big changes, like bringing a new baby into the house, can disrupt established sleep patterns. The conversation sheds light on the emotional and practical aspects of parenting during this transitional period, leaving listeners with a sense of empowerment and a deeper understanding of how to nurture both their toddler and n...

As a mom, the days often feel like a whirlwind of responsibilities and cherished moments with our little ones. However, amidst the chaos, we must carve out moments for ourselves, nurturing our well-being and finding balance in the daily grind. In this episode, we take a journey through the day, looking at ways for moms to boost their energy and peace with routines and rituals. Topics Discussed: Th...

Biting is a common behavior observed in infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds. However, the reassuring news is that as children develop self-control, acquire problem-solving skills, and they typically outgrow this behavior. While biting incidents can be distressing for everyone involved, it's essential to approach them with patience and understanding. In this episode, we'll explore the reason...

How can we empower our children through risky indoor and outdoor play and embrace a facilitator parenting approach? In this week's episode, we have a special guest, Dr. Catherine O’Brien, a renowned expert in child psychology and play. We talk about playtime for young children and how parents can change their protective mindset to nurture their child's growth. Topics Discussed: Playing Ind...

Wondering how you can secure your family's finances without missing out on those precious moments with your kids? We've got you covered. In this episode, we're talking about mom finances. We all know it's not just about the dollars – it's about finding that balance and mindset that works. We'll explore how you can manage providing for your family while being there for your...

Are you curious about how to nurture your kid's social-emotional growth while also creating a community with other parents? We all want our little ones to thrive emotionally and establish meaningful connections; that journey starts with us. The little moments we put in today can pave the way for a lifetime of emotional intelligence, resilience, and strong relationships. This week, Michael Gonz...

Embarking on the incredible journey of breastfeeding brings a mix of complexities and wonders. With each breastfeeding experience being unique, finding the right resources and support can transform the path you're on. Join us in this episode as we plunge into the heart of breastfeeding. Our guest, Dr. Andrea Braden, Obstetrician-Gynecologist and Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, is here to...

As parents, understanding the stages of play and the importance of social interactions in early childhood development can influence how we approach our children's playtime. Encouraging them to play with others, fostering independent play, and engaging with other families can provide a well-rounded and enriching experience for their growth. In this week's episode, Gabrielle Holt, a Montesso...

Being a mom of a toddler is an exhilarating journey, but it comes with its share of challenges, especially when it comes to keeping up our energy levels. In today's episode, Krizia Graham and I explore strategies to harness and nurture that power within you. Krizia Graham is a 32-year-old entrepreneur, fitness professional (NASM-CPT), nutritionist (ISSA), wife, stepmom to a teenager and mom of...

Motherhood is a transformative journey, filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with our children. But for some moms, the call to pursue their passions beyond parenting becomes irresistible. In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Newcomb who is a devoted mom and a successful business owner. She shares her journey of self-employment, the joys of motherhood, and the personal growth she&#...

Have you ever experienced the mixed emotions of being both motivated and disheartened by what you see on social media? How do these contrasting feelings affect you? In this week's episode, we explore the pros and cons of social media and the crucial role of critical thinking in our digital interactions. Julie Bogart is known for her common sense parenting and education advice. She’s the author...

Have you ever wondered what to do or how to set up your home when you have other children over to play?  In this episode, Jeanne-Marie Paynel, M.Ed, shares practical insights and tips to support your child's development. Our conversation reveals the beauty of simplicity, the power of observation, and the importance of allowing children to navigate conflicts and find their own solutions. Topics...

Our children go through developmental stages from the moment they are born, but did you know that parents also go through stages of development? In this episode, Ellen Galinsky, co-founder and President of Families and Work Institute discusses her book "The Six Stages of Parenthood." She shares that when she had her first child, she understood his development, but she didn't understa...

Did you know that you can often recognize the signs of autism around 18 months of age? In this episode, Diane Fleming explains what it was like seeing some developmental differences in her son Jacob around that age. Diane and I navigated the early years of parenthood together, and I've invited her to share her experiences as a mom. We'll rewind the clock to when her son Jacob was just a li...

In this episode of "Parenting in the First Three Years," host Ann McKitrick discusses the common fears and worries parents may experience. She shares a personal story of feeling fear and panic while driving on a steep hill in Italy and highlights how fear can impact us physiologically, emotionally, and cognitively. Ann emphasizes that fear can be helpful, as it increases self-preservatio...

In this episode of "Parenting in the First Three Years," host Ann McKitrick interviews Katie Larson, a physician's assistant with personal experience in dealing with severe food allergies in her own child. Katie shares her journey of discovering her child's allergies and undergoing oral immunotherapy treatment. She emphasizes the importance of introducing allergenic foods early t...