Parenting Stories, Struggles and Strategies for Moms and Dads of School-aged Children, Teenagers, and Impactful Parents

201: Tips For Traveling With Neurodiverse Children

Tips For Traveling With Neurodiverse Children

Do you have an anxious, inflexible, or neurodiverse child? Traveling can be challenging. Dawn Barclay, a travel writer, gives a sneak peek into her book Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents with Anxious, Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse by giving tips to parents in this Impactful Parent episode.

This is a great episode full of gold nuggets and handy tips! Discover how to travel with more ease and fun!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

http://www.dawnbarclayink.com/traveling-different---the-book.html For the Book

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Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

200: How To Love A Teenager: The 5 Love Languages

How To Love A Teenager: The 5 Love Languages

How does your child want to be loved? If you can speak to your child's heart, then you can show your love for them in ways that are better received. Today's episode of the Impactful Parent explains what the 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman are and how you can implement these languages in your home to cultivate a better relationship with your child.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

https://https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language

----

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

Transcript of How To Love A Teenager: The 5 Love Languages: 

How To Love A Teenager.

Gary Chapman's 5 Love Languages is a great way to figure out how best to show your child you love them (no matter their age.)

Hello, my name is Kristina Campos. I am the founder of the Impactful Parent. Every week I give you parenting videos that can help you in your parenting journey. If you have a particular topic or parenting question about your school-aged child that you would like me to address, please submit it at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com or by messaging me on social media. All submissions are kept anonymous. 

The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. I will tell you what they are and give you ideas for how to apply them to your child. There will be some great ideas for bringing more intentional efforts to show love in your household today, so let's get started!

Gary Chapman says that there are 5 ways that people show love and want to be loved. Most people will gravitate to 1 or 2 love languages. Still, they will also identify a little bit with all 5 love languages as well.

Knowing your love language and the love language of your loved ones is essential. This is how YOU, your spouse, and your kids perceive they are loved and how love is shown, too. Knowing the love languages of yourself and others will help strengthen your relationship. You will be able to communicate needs better, feel more appreciated, and make more intentional efforts to show love to each other.

Luckily, Gary Chapman also gives kids and adults a love language quiz to discover their love language preferences. You can find this quiz at https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language. The test is free.

Once you know your love language and that of your children, you will be able to intentionally speak that language, and your love will be better received.

Note: Don't take the test yourself and assume you already know the love language of your children.  Instead, please have the child take the test too. Don’t make assumptions about anyone’s love language.  Although many people tend to show love the way they want to receive love, we naturally have unfair biases if we assume.  It is important to accurately assess everyone's love language in your household. Take the test.

The 5 Love languages by Gary Chapman

Words of Affirmation

              If you are a person that loves unsolicited compliments and encouragement, then this could be your love language.

This child thrives on your approval and praise. Sometimes these kids are people pleasers and need you to acknowledge them, their efforts, and their victories. If you have a child with words of affirmation as their love language, here are some ideas for intentionally showing this child that you love them.

[caption id="attachment_6781" align="aligncenter" width="300"] How To Love A Teenager: The 5 Love Languages[/caption]

• Ask your child if they are working toward anything. Do they have a goal? Perhaps they want an A on an exam or have a big project for school. Praising your child for their efforts and verbally encouraging them.
• Thank your child for their good behavior. Thank yous will go a long way with this kid.
• Display your child's good work and efforts in a visible place, like on a tack board or refrigerator.
• Praise your child for a job well done whenever possible.
• Brag to others about your child when you know the child is in earshot or will find out you were talking about them.
• Leave notes in their lunchbox or use sticky notes to leave your child notes of encouragement, inspiration, and praise around the house.
• If your child has a phone, text your child with words of encouragement.
• Tell your child that you love them.

Bottom line: "The pen (and the spoken word) is mightier than the sword. What you say matters, so focus on encouragement, acknowledgment, and articulating your love verbally.

 

Physical Touch

              Someone touching you means a lot if you identify with this love language. Keep in mind that touch does not have to be sexual. Children have physical contact as their love language too.

This child will need hugs and kisses. But beyond hugs and kisses, how else can you show someone with a physical touch that you love them? Below are some ideas.

• A pat on the back when you are proud of your child.
• Holding hands when you walk together or are sitting close.
• Dance together. Take Ballroom dance lessons.
• Comb your child's hair for them.
• Run your hands through their hair when they are talking to you or trying to calm down.
• High fives for encouragement.
• Wrestle or play another contact sport together.
• Give your child a massage.

[caption id="attachment_6782" align="aligncenter" width="300"] How To Love A Teenager: The 5 Love Languages[/caption]

Bottom line: This person loves it when you touch them in a caring and loving manner. If you are a parent that spanks or slaps your child, then I would encourage you to reconsider your form of discipline because negative touch can be especially detrimental to the child’s mental health and your relationship.

 

Quality Time

              The people that resonate most with quality time need your undivided attention. They need a particular time to bond. These individuals want to feel cherished and prioritized. Spending meaningful time together is how they feel loved.

Remember that crafting quality time needs to be intentional and have some parameters. For example, No cell phones, No siblings, and No unwanted distractions. Typically, quality time is one-on-one with the person you love. The following examples are ways to cultivate this one-on-one, device-free, personal time with your children.

• Read a book together.
• Go for a walk in the park.
• Cook together.
• Go on a vacation or staycation.
• Do a fantastic one-on-one fun day.
• Start a new hobby together.
• Ask your child specific questions about their day that require them to give more than a yes or no answer.
• Do an activity your child chooses with them (even if you don't like it.)

Bottom Line: Quality time should be one-on-one with your child above all else. It can be easy to cultivate activities because it doesn't matter what you do as long as you are engaged and spending time together. The hard part is putting the phone down, putting work away, and making time away from everyone else in the family. Remember, no siblings.

 

Acts of Service

              If your love language is acts of service, you feel the most loved when someone does something for you. The old saying, "actions speak louder than words," could not be more accurate than with a person whose love language are acts of service. Actions that go above and beyond, help these individuals feel your love towards them. Sometimes, acts of service are helpful. Sometimes, acts of service are thoughtful. Either way, this person will appreciate your intentional efforts to do something nice for them.

Here are some examples of things you can do to show your love to a child with acts of service as their love language.

[caption id="attachment_6783" align="aligncenter" width="300"] How To Love A Teenager: The 5 Love Languages[/caption]

• If your child is interested in a new activity, help them explore classes to take or get them supplies they may need.
• If they are having a difficult time doing an activity, help them.
• Make a special breakfast for your child.
• Go with your child to do some community service activities together.
• If your child is running late for school, help them by making their lunch, warming up their car, emailing their teachers, or doing whatever you can to take something off their plate.
• If your child is stressed, make your child their favorite comfort food and think about what you can do to take something off their to-do list.
• When your child is sick, make them some special soup and put on their favorite movie.
• When your teenager is having a crisis, even if you know the situation is ridiculous, sit with your child and listen to them.

Bottom line: Be intentional about doing the extra stuff. Please pay attention to their needs, wants, and desires. Take that information and find a way to do something a little special for them. It doesn't have to be a big gesture. It must be a thoughtful gesture.

 

Gifts

              This is the most misunderstood of the 5 love languages. People with this love language tend to show and receive love through gift-giving; however, the misconception is that the gift has to be expensive. This is not the case. You can't just give any gift to a person with the Gifting love language. The gift requires attention and empathy to mean something to the receiver. The meaning of the gift comes from the sentiment that the gift represents. 

Also, many people think that individuals with a gifting love language are materialistic or shallow. This is also not necessarily the case. The meaningfulness of the gift will come from the gift’s sentiment, not the cost.

With this in mind, here are some things you can do to show love to a child with gifts as their love language.

• Sending flowers for no reason, only to say I love you.
• Buying your child their favorite snack and putting it in their lunchbox.
• Buying tickets to their favorite music artist, musical, or Anime event.
• Surprise donuts for breakfast.
• A note in your child's lunchbox or even a note mailed through the US postal office
• Gift your child with a photograph of a special moment.
• Give a handmade gift to show your child you care.
• Buy or create a special one-of-a-kind gift.

Bottom line: Your gift should be sentimental and unique in some way. Again, this isn't about the cost of the present but more about the meaning the gift represents.

Those are Gary Chapman’s 5 Love Languages and my personal examples of how to implement love languages into your home.

When you know your loved one's love language, you can speak to their heart in ways that you could not before. I challenge you to discover your child's love language. Intentionally show your child how much you care for them by speaking to them in ways that will be meaningful to them. You got this!

If this information was valuable for you today, BECOME a more impactful parent by downloading The Impactful Parent App. The Impactful Parent app is FREE and full of episodes like this one that will help you in your parenting journey. Investing in your family looks like learning the warning signs of certain behaviors so you can stop bad things before they start, discovering new parenting techniques to make your parenting more effective, and joining a community of like-minded parents that also want to be the best parent they can for their child. All this, plus so much more, can be found inside The Impactful Parent app, so download it today. You got nothing to lose with this free parenting resource. Go to theimpactfulparent.com and discover how to step up your parenting game and be more impactful.

 But until next time, you got this, parents. I am just here to help.

 

199: Communication Delays and Concerns With Children

Communication Delays and Concerns With Children

Communication delays and challenges in children are very common. So why isn't anyone talking about it?

Whether your child is having difficulty with speaking, pronunciation, formulating thoughts, sequencing, comprehension, or ANY other of the different parts of communication, then this video is for YOU!

Siris Rivas (speech therapist) and Kristina Campos (founder of the Impactful Parent) discuss HOW PARENTS CAN HELP AND SUPPORT THEIR CHILDREN WITH COMMUNICATION CHALLENGES.

💥Discover techniques to help your child.

💥Learn warning signs of communication delays

💥and find out the next steps for getting your child help in this awesome interview.

📖 FREE E-BOOK INCLUDED IN THIS EPISODE! Get it inside the Impactful Parent app! (Available in English and Spanish) 

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

empoweringlightlanguage@gmail.com to contact Siris Rivas-Verdejo for her services.

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198: From Whole To Shattered To Impactful (The origin story)

From Whole To Shattered To Impactful 

My candid interview with Rodrigo Bravo about my origin story and how the Impactful Parent came to be. 

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

----

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

196: My Child Is LGBTQ! How Do I Handle This?

My Child Is LGBTQ! How Do I Handle This?

When you're child comes out, it is a critical time to show your child love and support BUT this time can also be scary for parents! 

This episode of the Impactful Parent was recorded on the Clubhouse App with parenting coaches Dali Rivera and Rodrigo Bravo. 

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

FREE LGBTQ PARENTING RESOURCE:  https://theimpactfulparent.com/new2lgbtq

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

197: 10 New Years Resolutions Every Parent Needs 2023 to cultivate a BETTER RELATIONSHIP WITH THEIR CHILDREN

10 New Years Resolutions Every Parent Needs 2023 to cultivate a BETTER RELATIONSHIP WITH THEIR CHILDREN

 

Free PDF download can be found inside the Impactful Parent app

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

Transcript: 

10 New Year's Resolutions Every Parent Needs 2023

Let's start off 2023 right! I got 10 New Year's Resolutions that EVERY parent needs to create better connections with their family and live a more balanced life.

Hello, my name is Kristina Campos. I am the founder of the Impactful Parent. Every week I give you parenting videos that can help you in your parenting journey. If you have a particular topic or parenting question about your school-aged child that you would like me to address, please submit it at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com or by messaging me on social media. All submissions are kept anonymous. 

Today, we are talking about Impactful New Year's resolutions. I have 10 fantastic ideas for creating a more meaningful relationship with your family and becoming a more impactful parent in 2023. Let's get these new habits started today!

10 New Years Resolutions Every Parent Needs 2023

1. Reserve 1 hour of Your Family's Day as Device and Electronic Free.

I know many people are giving me eye rolls right now. I get it. An electronic free hour might seem impossible, and you may get some pushback from the kids, but I am sticking by this one. I suggest implementing this electronic free hour when it seems more natural, like during the dinner hour or the hour before bed. Ideally, no one should be looking at screens during either of those times anyway. Make your electronic free hour before bedtime. You'll also find that kids will fall asleep faster and sleep better because the blue light of screens keeps people awake.

 

2. Block Out Quality One-On-Time With Your Children EVERYDAY For at Least 15 MINUTES.

This is tougher than it seems, but it is entirely worth it. Each child needs at least 15 minutes of their parent's undivided attention each day, regardless of age. These 15 minutes can be in the car, before bed, a meal, or just a quick check-in. What matters most is that you are consistent, give your child your full attention (no phones), and it is one-on-one time (no siblings allowed.) Consider rethinking how you spend time with your kids one-on-one. Let them call the shots for those 15 minutes. Let them pick the activity.

 

3. Set a Time When Work MUST Be Put Away and Left For the Next Day.

Letting the workday drag on creates an environment of stress and disappointment for kids. They don't understand the responsibilities of adults, so instead, they view it as "work is more important than me." Not only is that bad, but you'll be setting healthy boundaries for your work-home life balance too. This can be wonderful for your own stress levels and mental health.

 

4. Read With Your Child No Matter What Their Age.

If you have older kids, you can pick an audiobook to listen to whenever you're driving from one place to another. If you have younger children, choose a chapter book you can read TO THEM. There is something special about a parent reading aloud to their child, and most parents stop this tradition once their child knows how to read themselves. That's so sad! Sharing a book is special- even an audiobook. It gives you something to talk about with your child and something you'll find your children will look forward to each day if you keep it consistent and make it a priority. 

 

5. Start Eating Better- Even Make A Garden Together.

The goal I have for you is to limit the amount you eat fast food each week OR start a garden in your kitchen or backyard with your kids. How kids eat is greatly influenced by the example the parent sets. Let's face it, there aren't many kids out there cooking their own meals. They look to you for what they are supposed to eat. If you don't want to encourage chips and cookies as a daily snack- then stop buying the chips and cookies and leaving them in the house, OR you can buy a lock box and put all the "junk food" inside the lock box so only you can access the junk food box and monitor your child's intake. Gardening is also a great way to promote healthy eating, and gardening outside with your kids is fantastic for kids to ground themselves and explore nature and science together.

6. Eat Dinner Together At Least Three Times A Week and Make 1 of Those Meals A Family Meeting.

I know families are busy with sports and all those extracurricular activities. However, there is still no replacement for the quality time of family meals. This is a time for the whole family to sit and regroup. Then, make one of those family meals an official family meeting. Family meetings put everyone on the same page. This is where everyone in the family will do 3 things:

• Announce their schedule for the week.
• Bring up concerns/problems for the family to discuss.
• Declare 1 thing they loved about the past week and 1 thing they look forward to in the coming week.

You will be surprised how beneficial family meetings and dinners can become!

 

7. Exercise WITH Your Children at Least Once A Week.

Alright, I hope you exercise more than once a week, but either way- taking ONE of those workouts and making it a joint effort can do great things for your kids. Consider that workout can be swimming, hiking, a long walk, a game of tennis, and a variety of other activities! This workout time can also be considered one of your one-on-one times with your child if they choose the activity. Either way, you will promote exercise and movement, which is the most important here!

 

8. Volunteer With Your Children At Least 2 Times This Year

Go to your local food bank, donate outgrown toys and clothes, shovel snow for the elderly neighbor, or help at a local soup kitchen… there are so many volunteer community service activities that your family can help with; you need to make an effort. Most kids will never do volunteer work alone, so you need to lead the charge here and demonstrate the importance of taking time out of our year to help the community. Some of the lessons your children will learn are incredibly valuable: gratitude, perspective, understanding, empathy, and a dedication to service.

 

9. Make a Routine for Your Week and Stick With It.

A routine might be boring, but it is one of the most important things you can give your family. Routine creates predictability and security for children. Kids will complain less and thrive more when a consistent routine is in place. In addition, a routine will help you keep to your New Year's resolutions.

 

10. Role model what you want to see.

Role modeling is entirely underestimated by parents. It is the single most powerful influence you have on your children. Kids will not listen to you if you don't walk the walk and talk the talk. If you don't exercise, eat all your meals on the go, never put down your phone or never volunteer in your community, your kids will likely mimic your behaviors in their own way. If you want your kids to pick up their clothes from the floor, you can't have a bedroom full of your clothes scattered all over the ground. They won't listen to you. But, the reverse is true also. If you role model the behaviors you want to see, your children are more likely to mimic those behaviors too.

Let's start off 2023 with new goals! You got this!

If this information was valuable for you today, BECOME a more impactful parent by downloading The Impactful Parent App. The Impactful Parent app is FREE and full of episodes like this one that will help you in your parenting journey. Investing in your family looks like learning the warning signs of certain behaviors so you can stop bad things before they start, discovering new parenting techniques to make your parenting more effective, and joining a community of like-minded parents that also want to be the best parent they can for their child. All this, plus so much more, can be found inside The Impactful Parent app, so download it today. You got nothing to lose with this free parenting resource. Go to theimpactfulparent.com and discover how you can step up your parenting game and be a more impactful parent.

 But until next time, you got this, parents. I am just here to help.

 

195: Supporting Adolescents When Moving Homes

Supporting Adolescents When Moving Homes

Moving homes is stressful for everyone but parents can make things a little easier on their adolescents if they follow the 3 tips given in this video! Jaquetta Slocomb, a former school psychologist, and now luxury real estate realtor, gives the audience 3 meaningful tips for making the transition between homes a better experience for teens.

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

194: Do You Parent From Love Or Fear?

Do you parent out of LOVE❤️ or out of FEAR😨?

💥Discover the differences between parenting out of love and parenting out of fear. Most parents of teenagers tend to parent out of fear when they THINK they are parenting out of love. Do you? Learn how to parent MORE out of LOVE❤️ and you will also improve the relationship you have with your adolescents! 🙂🙂

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parent on social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

Transcript of Podcast: Do You Parent From Love or Fear?

My son wanted to go to a school party. One of those parties where I suspected there wasn't good (if any) adult supervision. He begged me to go. He insisted that I should trust him and that everything would be fine. On the other hand, I felt like letting him go to the party was likely a big mistake.

The best kind of parenting finds a balance between love and fear.

You see, we all make decisions based on ONE of two underlying emotions: Love or Fear.

This is true about any decision you make in your parenting, whether you are grocery shopping and debating whether to buy the chicken or the boxed pizza. It doesn't matter. All decisions come down to your own perceptions of how you feel about the choice. Are you acting out of love or fear?

When you make decisions and act out of love, your actions are giving, expansive, open, and honest.

When you make decisions and act out of fear, your actions take, tighten the grip, withhold information, and lie.

Love actions share, let go, and trust. Fear actions hide, squander, and attack.

Love decisions feel expansive and open. Fear decisions feel closed and restrictive.

For example, are you constantly telling your kids no? Are you hovering over your child all day, ensuring they don't fall, don't hurt themselves, or don't make a wrong choice? This is all fear-based parenting. Parenting that is scared to lose something. Parenting is scared to let go because our kids might make mistakes. Parenting is restrictive and can literally suffocate children under the parent's fears.

Parents work hard for everything they have. It takes a lot of effort to have a family, a house, food on the table, vacation time, money to buy braces, piano lessons, and a new wardrobe for your growing kids every year. Parents work so hard to build their homes and provide for their children that sometimes parents can tip the scales of balance and begin to parent more from a place of fear than love.

Yes, there is a time and place for fear-based parenting. Keeping our children safe is a priority. Boundaries and rules should be made to keep kids safe; however, when those rules go to an extreme and don't allow your child to make their own choices and learn to live life independently, you have gone too far in your fear-based parenting.

The goal is a balance somewhere in the middle. We want to hold our children close enough to rescue them from danger but not so tight that they feel they don't have any say in their own life.

When my son wanted to go to that school party, I had a pivotal decision to make. Do I say no because of my fears about what might happen at that party and my son's decision? Or do I say yes because I want my child to trust him? Both decisions originate from my great love for my child, but one is made out of my fears. The other decision is made from the trust for my son to grow from this experience and allow him to learn how to navigate peer pressure. 

Let me give you another example. Should I buy the chicken that I know is healthier for my family, or should I buy the boxed pizza because I'm afraid I won't have time to cook sometime this week?  

Examine your choices and ask yourself, Why Am I Making This Choice? Am I Afraid Of Something?

Usually, we are afraid. Most decisions are made out of fear. So if you find that you are a parent making lots of decisions based upon fear, then consider that you may want to parent a little bit more out of love.

Parenting teenagers can be especially fear-based; however, this is when moms and dads need to shift their parenting to be more love/fear balanced. From ages 15-18, it is the parent's grand opportunity to parent out of love more than fear. How do you ask? Arm your child with the tools they need to make the best decisions possible. Please give them the resources they need to make a difficult decision easy. Ask yourself, I wouldn't be afraid of my child doing XYZ if they knew _(a piece of knowledge)__ and if they had __(resource)__.   For example, I wouldn't be afraid for my son to go to that party if I felt comfortable that he knew the consequences of drinking and driving AND had a secret way to get out of a bad situation by calling me with a code word.

Be aware of fear-based parenting. Be mindful of your fears and do your best to confront them head-on by arming your child with the things they need to know, or have so they can prove to you that they can do it. You will be giving your child the gift of growth and trust.

If this information was valuable for you today, BECOME a more impactful parent by downloading The Impactful Parent App. The Impactful Parent app is FREE and full of episodes like this one that will help you in your parenting journey. Investing in your family looks like learning the warning signs of certain behaviors so you can stop bad things before they start, discovering new parenting techniques to make your parenting more effective, and joining a community of like-minded parents that also want to be the best parent they can for their child. All of this, plus so much more, can be found inside The Impactful Parent app, so download it today. You got nothing to lose with this free parenting resource. Go to theimpactfulparent.com and discover how you can step up your parenting game and be a more impactful parent.

 But until next time, you got this, parents. I am just here to help.

 

193: Athlete Abuse: (Child and student athlete emotional, physical and sexual abuse)

Athlete Abuse: (Child and student-athlete emotional, physical, and sexual abuse)

Dr. Amy Saltzman talks to parents about keeping their kids safe on and off the athletic field. Unfortunately, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse have become too common with our young people on athletic teams. Dr. Saltman, an ex-gymnast herself, provides parents with www.spotaspider.com which teaches kids and adults how to spot the warning signs and how to keep children safe from abuse.

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

www.spotaspider.com for Amy's program!

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

192: My Child Is Stealing. What Can I Do?

My Child Is Stealing. What Can I Do?

If you have a child that is stealing, it can be one of the most frustrating and difficult delinquent habits to break. This video gives 6 tips for what parents can do and explains the several reasons why kids steal. This video also comes with a FREE PDF parenting resource. https://theimpactfulparent.com/stealing or inside the FREE Impactful Parent App!

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE RECORDING

https://theimpactfulparent.com/app Download the FREE Impactful Parent App! Available on Apple and Android App Stores. FREEBIES from episodes included!

Apple Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/ios

Android Play Store: https://theimpactfulparent.com/android

https://theimpactfulparent.com for more FREE Resources and paid programs.

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe!

"I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!"  <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you!!!

Rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now!

 

What to do next:

1. Get The Impactful Parent App! Everything you need in your parenting journey in one spot! Available on the Android Play Store and the Apple Store. Search Impactful Parent (direct links listed above under Links in Episode).
2. Follow The Impactful Parenton social media if you don’t already! Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, & Pinterest
3. Subscribe to the PODCAST 
4. Check out the official website of The Impactful Parent for FREE RESOURCES, parenting classes, mom’s groups, and so much more! Click here to check it out!
5. Discover how you can work with Kristina!  Sign up for a FREE 30-minute discovery call! Click here to find a time that works best for you!

Bottom Line... I am here for YOU!  Contact me at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com 

 

Transcript of My Child Is Stealing. What Can I do?

Help! My Child Is Stealing

Where did my $20 bill go? How did you get that new video game? Where did that necklace come from? If your child is stealing, it isn't easy to get them to stop. There are a lot of layers to this problem, but I got some suggestions for you.

Hello, my name is Kristina Campos. I am the founder of the Impactful Parent. Every week I give you parenting videos that can help you in your parenting journey. If you have a particular topic or parenting question about your school-aged child that you would like me to address, please submit it at theimpactfulparent@gmail.com or by messaging me on social media. All submissions are kept anonymous. 

Today, I will talk about what parents can do when they find out their child is stealing. And stick around until the end because I will also provide the reasons your child may be stealing in the first place. Let's get started!

 

What Parents Should do:

NONE of the suggestions I am about to give are easy, but here are my 6 tips to live by.

#1: DO NOT ACCUSE YOUR CHILD OF STEALING UNLESS YOU CAN CATCH THEM RED-HANDED.

Let's say you suspect your child is stealing. Anything less than catching them in the act will only push your child into defense and fighting mode. Even circumstantial evidence is not enough to accuse your child of stealing. Your child will lie to you. Blaming your child for stealing will make them feel like a scared wild animal backed into a corner. All of these scenarios rarely end well. Even if you have a witness that your child is stealing, you still can't accuse your child. If your child denies the accusations, you are forced to choose between trusting your child or the third-party accuser. This dichotomy will surely put a bigger rift in your relationship. You have to catch your child in the act. Unfortunately, this leaves parents frustrated and feeling helpless. Yet, my advice does not change. You can’t accuse your child of stealing unless you catch them.

#2: IF YOU CAN GET A CONFESSION, YOU CAN'T PUNISH THEM WITH ANYTHING BUT NATURAL CONSEQUENCES.

Punishing a child too harshly for being honest will teach them that lying is better. This means no lectures either. Tell your child that stealing is wrong and work together with the child to correct the situation. The objective here is to support your child in righting their wrongs. Have your child return the stolen item. Have your child apologize verbally or with a written letter to the person they stole from. The goal here is to make sure that your child can not benefit from theft in any way. Also, praise their honesty! This is important. You are not giving your child mixed signals by honoring what they did right and punishing what they did wrong. Your goal as a parent is to create an environment where you hold your child accountable without holding their poor choice against them.

#3 ADDRESS THE BEHAVIOR, NOT THE PERSON.

Do not tell your child they are a bad kid. Stealing is wrong, but your child is not bad. They just made a poor choice. Do not call your child names like thief or liar. This is detrimental to your relationship, but I have also seen name-calling become a self-fulling prophecy for the child. Kids can be so emotionally hurt by their parent's name-calling that they take it upon themselves to become what their parents think they are.

#4 MAKE THE NATURAL CONSEQUENCES HARSHER WITH EACH OFFENSE.

This could come down to showing your child the reality of stealing. When they get caught, they may have to take classes on not-stealing, pay off their debt, get probation, and even get arrested.

#5 GIVE YOUR CHILD A CLEAN-SLATE

Once your child has righted their wrong, it is important to move on and not assume it will happen again. You might be on high alert and on the lookout, but don't assume your child will make the wrong choice again. Your child can feel your mistrust. They can feel your judgment. Again, this becomes another self-fulling prophecy that parents don't want to encourage.

#6 YOU NEED TO GET TO THE ROOT OF WHY

You can't support your child in making better choices in the future if you don't understand WHY they stole in the first place. Children 9 years old or older should know that stealing is wrong. So, if that is the case, you need to figure out why your child is stealing to address the problem. You see, stealing is the product of deeper-seated feelings manifesting themselves in taking possessions that don't belong to them. Stealing is a reaction. It is not the core problem. To help your child resolve the stealing and stop, you must help them determine the core issue.

Finding the core issue can take some detective work. If you can’t figure it out, you may need to call on a psychologist or counselor to help you. Here are some of the most common reasons why children steal and first steps parents can do to help.

 

Why Do Kids and Teens Steal?

• Poor impulse control. Your child can't help himself. If this is your kid, you'll need to work with them to strengthen their ability to wait and think before they act.
• They want to impress their friends. Your child might have a great need to fit in. They need a sense of belonging and acceptance. Along those same lines, they could be trying to buy friendships. If this is your child, you will need to work on raising their self-esteem and confidence.
• The child wants revenge. Sometimes kids use stealing to get back at someone when they feel wronged. This is a form of bullying, so it will be essential to teach your child other coping skills for handling resentment and anger.
• They can't purchase the item legally. Some kids steal drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and vapes. They can't buy those items because they are too young. If you find that your child is stealing substances like these, look into addiction and substance abuse counseling.
• Jealousy. They want what someone else has. Jealousy is common in adolescents, but if you suspect your child is stealing because they are jealous of others, you'll need to teach your child how to appreciate what they have and respect others' possessions.
• They don't have the money. Sometimes kids can't afford the item they want. They see the ticket price as being unattainable. This causes vast frustration and feelings of desperation. If this is your child, give them the ability to get what they want honestly. While they earn money, you will also have to reward patients and tenacity.
• The child's basic needs are not being met. Sometimes kids steal food, clothing, and other items out of necessity. This is the child taking matters into their own hands because the adults in their life haven't provided for them. In this case, you should report the circumstances to the authorities so the child can get help. However, if you are a parent whose child feels like you don't give them their basic needs then this could become problematic. Sometimes “needs” can be subjective. Your teen certainly feels like they have a different point of view. In this case, you'll need to discuss these differences and give your child a way to legally get what they want.
• Sometimes kids steal because they are afraid to ask for money. Maybe they want to purchase tampons, condoms, a bra, or a morning-after pill. Suppose the child is too embarrassed to ask for the money or too embarrassed to be seen at the cash register with the items they want. In this case, the child needs a trusted adult to ask for help who won't judge them or make them feel stupid. This could be you, but obviously your child doesn’t feel like you are this person yet. This could mean working on your relationship with the child to encourage more trust.
• They steal because they are looking for an emotional high. Some kids are thrill-seekers and think stealing is fun. If this is your child, minimizing the temptation to steal is essential. Don't leave money out on the counter and watch them closely in stores. Giving these children other outlets to seek adrenaline more constructively is crucial.
• The child is seeking attention. Some children who feel empty inside and don't feel connected to others will use stealing to fill a void. The child wants more attention from their peers or their family. The emotional lack of connection gets filled by risky behaviors and experimenting with getting caught. If this is your child, it will be important to provide one-on-one, quality time with your child to strengthen your bond. Please remember that this isn't about how YOU feel about the time you spend with your child. You may feel like you already give your child enough time and attention. How you feel isn’t the point. This is how connected the child feels with you. Those can be different things.
• Rebellion, because they don't feel they have any control. If the child feels like their life is dictated for them and they don't have any say in their own life, then stealing can manifest as a way of gaining back some control. If this is your child, then try giving your child more choices. Do you want to clean your room now or after dinner tonight? Do you want to finish homework at the dinner table or in your rooms without a phone?
• Not able to process feelings. Suppose your child is going through a big life transition like an unwanted move, a death in the family, or a parent's divorce. In these cases, the child might resort to stealing as a way of acting out because of the inability to process their big emotions. Teaching your child coping skills will be necessary.
• Mental health problems. Underlying behavior disorders that aren't treated can cause stealing. Also, kids that are trying to cope with depression may steal as a way of distracting themselves, getting an adrenaline rush, a way to seek attention, or a way to feel excited when they feel numb inside. These mental health issues should be taken seriously, and taking your child to a mental health professional is the best step.

With these examples, you can start digging into the root cause of your child's delinquent behaviors. Start a conversation with your child when the mood is correct, and your child is open to talking.

Lastly, don't feel like you must deal with this alone. Stealing is one of the more complicated behaviors to correct. Suppose your child is struggling with mental health, depression, or a combination of the reasons children steal mentioned today, then it is likely time to get outside help. Also seek outside help if your child isn't showing any remorse for their actions or if you have a child that is a repeat stealing offender. You don’t need to correct their behaviors all on your own. A health care professional can assist you in figuring out why your child is stealing and help your child stop. You are an impactful parent by listening to this episode today. You're trying to understand your child and get them help. Don't take the burden all on your own shoulders.

If this information was valuable for you today, BECOME a more impactful parent by downloading The Impactful Parent App. The Impactful Parent app is FREE and full of episodes like this one that will help you in your parenting journey. Investing in your family looks like learning the warning signs of certain behaviors so you can stop bad things before they start, discovering new parenting techniques to make your parenting more effective, and joining a community of like-minded parents that also want to be the best parent they can for their child. All this, plus so much more, can be found inside The Impactful Parent app, so download it today. You got nothing to lose with this free parenting resource. Go to theimpactfulparent.com and discover how you can step up your parenting game and be a more impactful parent.

 But until next time, you got this, parents. I am just here to help