Join us on Parenting for Thought with host Emry Kettle as we dive into calm and effective communication strategies with marriage counselor and author Raffi Bilek. In this episode, Raffi discusses key principles from his book 'The Couple's Communication Handbook,' emphasizing the value of taking breaks, empathic dialogue, and separating exploration from resolution in discussions. Perfect for parents, couples, and anyone looking to improve their relationships. Tune in for practical advice and real-life examples!

00:00 The Importance of Timing in Communication

01:38 Effective Communication in Relationships

02:56 Handling Emotional Spikes in Parenting

05:36 The Myth of Never Going to Bed Angry

12:22 Empathic Dialogue: A Framework for Better Communication

19:09 Applying Communication Strategies Beyond Marriage

24:59 Balancing Emotions and Taking Breaks

32:57 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Find Raffi’s book here https://www.thecommunicationbook.com/

Connect with Emry here www.emrykettle.com

www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach

Today's guest on Parenting for Thought is Larissa, a childcare navigator, shares invaluable insights on choosing the right childcare options—be it a nanny, babysitter, or nursery. Larissa emphasizes the vital role of communication between parents and childcare providers to ensure the best care for children.

Tune in to learn practical advice on managing expectations, discussing key issues like food and behavior, and understanding the importance of aligning values. Larissa also talks about her book, 'Questions to Ask Prospective Child Care Settings and Child Minders,' packed with over 140 questions to help parents make informed decisions. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting this journey, this episode is a must-watch!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Childcare as a Third Parent

00:40 Meet Larissa: The Childcare Navigator

02:55 Finding the Right Childcare: Tips and Advice

04:48 The Value of In-Home Childcare

10:39 Balancing Childcare and Personal Values

23:14 Behavior Management and Childcare

29:20 The Importance of Communication

35:15 Resources for Parents

Connect with Larissa here:

https://www.thechildcarenavigator.com

Get Larissa’s book here:

https://thechildcarenavigator.com/product-details/product/ultimateguide

Connect with Emry here:

https://www.emrykettle.com

https://www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach/

In this episode of Parenting for Thought, host Emry Kettle, a Child Behavior Specialist, sits down with Dr. Anna Colton, a clinical psychologist with over two decades of experience working with eating disorders. They explore how parents can help their children develop a balanced and confident relationship with food, reducing the risk of eating disorders. Dr. Colton shares insights from her new book, How to Talk to Children About Food, unpacks the difference between eating disorders and disordered eating, explains the importance of food neutrality, and offers practical guidance for navigating conversations about food and setting supportive boundaries.

00:00 Introduction & Meet Dr. Anna Colton

02:30 Eating Disorders vs. Disordered Eating

06:55 Parenting & Food Conversations

20:17 Food Neutrality & Diet Culture’s Impact

30:05 Repairing Parenting Mistakes & Reducing Shame

41:26 Final Thoughts & Resources

More about Dr Anna:

https://www.dranna.co.uk/about

https://www.instagram.com/drannacolton/

Get the book here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Talk-Children-About-Food/dp/1785120557

More about Emry

https://www.emrykettle.com

https://www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach