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
185. How do parents keep kids safe without holding them back? (Special Recast Episode)
With Halloween creeping up, Andrew and Caroline revisit one of their most memorable episodes: The night they tried to solve a mystery that still haunts their home: is their ensuite bathroom possessed… or just falling apart?
(PS — the light actually did turn on in the middle of the night. You decide. 👀)
But ghosts aside, this replay digs into something every parent wrestles with: How to keep kids safe without smothering their independence.
They explore why our protective instincts sometimes do more harm than good, and how fear can quietly steer our parenting choices away from what helps kids grow confident and resilient.
This episode is a timely reminder to check which fears belong to you, and which actually belong to your kids.
Enjoy this spooky, insightful, and funny rewind!
Homework Ideas
Name your own fears.
Write down three things that worry you most about your child’s safety or future. Then ask yourself: Are these my fears, or theirs?
Let them try (and maybe fail).
Choose one small thing this week to let your child handle on their own — crossing a street, carving their pumpkin, or choosing a costume. Watch their confidence rise.
Practice “brave talk.”
Instead of “Be careful,” try “You’ve got this — and I’m nearby if you need help.” It rewires how kids hear risk.
Reflect before reacting.
When you feel that protective jolt, pause and ask: Am I keeping them safe, or keeping myself comfortable?
Model courage out loud.
Tell your kids when you feel nervous (like hearing that mysterious bathroom light click on again 👀). Let them see courage in action.
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