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
173. Would you still choose to be a parent? (If you could do it all again?)
In this episode of Parents of the Year, we ask a question many are too afraid to say out loud:
If you knew then what you know now… would you still choose to have kids?
With honesty, humour, and zero sugarcoating, Andrew and Caroline share stories of being ignored mid-sentence, kids crashing vehicles into trees, and the daily grind of parenting teens who “know everything and nothing at once.”
But it’s not all eye rolls and sticky toffee pudding disasters—there’s awe, laughter, deep connection, and the bittersweet magic of watching your children turn into people you genuinely like.
If you’re parenting in the thick of it, thinking about what you wish you’d done differently, or simply craving a little validation, this one’s for you.
Homework Ideas
Reflection Activity: "Would You Still Choose Parenthood?"
Journal or talk with your partner about:
- What moments bring you the most joy?
- What do you wish you’d done differently? And how can you use that to make changes moving forward?
- What matters most to you in the next 10 years?
Listening Challenge: 24 Hours of Yes
Practice shifting from “No” to “Yes, and…”
Try saying yes to one request a day that you'd normally shut down—notice how it changes connection and conflict.
Conversation Starters for Families
Small Moments Matter: Try a prompt below or let your kids pick a number at random to spark connection. These are perfect for dinner chats, drives, and bedtime wind-downs.
- What made you laugh today?
(Even a tiny giggle counts.) - Was there a moment today you felt proud of yourself?
(Doesn’t have to be school-related.) - Did anything surprise or confuse you today?
(Help them get curious, not just correct.) - If today had a soundtrack, what song would be on it?
(Answers can be funny, moody, or completely random.) - Did you notice anyone being kind—or not so kind—today?
(People-watching meets empathy.) - What’s something you wish adults understood better about kids?
(Spoiler: this one might sting.) - If you could rewind one moment from today, which one would you choose—and why?
(Great for reflection without shame.) - What’s something small you’re looking forward to tomorrow?
(Helps kids build anticipation and notice the good.) - When did you feel the most ‘you’ today?
(Encourages identity, confidence, and self-awareness.) - Want to just sit here together for a minute? No talking needed.
(Some of the best connection doesn’t need words.)
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