Parents of the Year
We were never given a manual on how to parent. It is easy to get overwhelmed to know the right thing to do. There is so much contradictory information out there and everyone has their own advice. Parenting is a rewarding but messy, confusing, infuriating, guilt-inducing, and overwhelming journey. While it's easy to get lost, Andrew Stewart, a real dad, and Dr. Caroline Buzanko, a real mom, child psychologist, and parenting expert (who also happens to be married to Andrew) will help you get back on track. In each episode, Andrew and Caroline have open and honest chats about everything parenting. Join them in honesty, laughter, and tears (Caroline is a bit of a cry baby) as they help you navigate this journey of parenting. And, every so often, you may get some gems of expert advice. Our goal is to make your parenting journey less stressful, more forgiving, and more awesome. Please join us every Wednesday for new episodes of Parenting of the Year.
Parents of the Year
163. How do you help kids follow through without nagging?
Helping Kids Follow Through—Without Nagging or Fighting
It’s one thing to want kids to take initiative—getting their learner’s permit, challenging an unfair grade, picking up a new skill—but it’s a whole other thing when our "help" just gets ignored (or explodes into a full meltdown).
In this episode of Parents of the Year, Caroline and Andrew share stories and practical strategies to help kids tackle challenges without pushing them away. From setting goals to managing anxiety around tests, we share ways to guide your kids without nagging, lectures, or power struggles.
Tune in for:
· How to set a goal without it backfiring
· Why open-ended questions are your secret weapon
· When (and how) to offer advice without triggering shutdowns
· Helping anxious kids build confidence, one step at a time
· Why letting kids own the “how” makes all the difference
Listen now and find out how to stay connected — even when your kids resist every suggestion you make!
Homework Ideas
Practice Open-Ended Questions
Instead of giving advice, try asking:
- “What’s your plan for getting ready for the test?”
- “How did you get good at ____? What could you borrow from that?”
- “What kind of support would be helpful?”
Set a Gentle Deadline
Collaboratively pick a realistic date (e.g., for a test, learner’s permit, etc.). Ask if they want help working backward to create a plan — but only if they want it.
Watch and Wait
After offering support, step back. Let them come back to you when they're ready — even if it's hard!
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