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
168. Who’s judging your parenting?
Are parents more judged than ever?
This eye-opening conversation e tackles the quiet shame and loud opinions parents face every day — from their partners, their own parents, in-laws, friends, and especially the online world.
Andrew and Caroline dig into the everyday moments that spark doubt, the awkward birthday parties, the unsolicited advice, and why the loudest voices often come from the most insecure places.
With laughs, lived stories, and a challenge to step back from the noise, this episode is a must for every parent who's ever second-guessed themselves. Come for the diaper explosions, stay for the sanity-saving truths.
Homework Ideas
Check your parenting compass: Write down three values that matter most to you as a parent. Let those guide your choices — not outside voices.
Play “Parent Role Reversal”: Try parenting for a week as if you were your co-parent. Are you usually the “fun one”? Try being firmer. More structured? Try leaning into flexibility. Talk about what worked (and what didn’t).
Practice Connection Over Correction
Practice staying grounded in connection — even when you’re dealing with tough parenting moments. Complete the following and keep it on the fridge, in your car, or folded in your wallet. It’s for you, your values, and your kids.
- Calm-Down Conversation Starters (Use when emotions are high — for both you and your child.)
- “Let’s take a minute together. I’m here.”
- “This is hard right now. You’re not in trouble. Let’s figure it out.”
- “We’re on the same team. What do you need from me right now?”
- “I need a minute to calm myself, and then we’ll talk.”
- Check-In Prompts (Ask yourself before responding.)
- Am I reacting from fear, embarrassment, or pressure?
- What does my child need right now — not just what I want them to do?
- Is this about them… or about how I’m feeling?
- Will this teach them something helpful?
- Accountability Without Shame (Help your child take responsibility while keeping their dignity intact.)
- “I saw what happened — tell me what was going on for you.”
- “That choice didn’t work. Let’s think about a better way for next time.”
- “You don’t have to be perfect. You do have to try again.”
- “What do you think needs to happen now to make things right?”
- Define Your Parenting Non-Negotiables
(Write down your top 3 values to guide tough decisions.)
1. _________________________________________
2. _________________________________________
3. _________________________________________
- Anchor Phrase (Write your own!) This is your go-to reminder in the middle of chaos. Something short that brings you back to what matters.
“My anchor phrase is: _________________________________________”
Keep this close. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to show up, stay steady, and stay human.
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