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
189. Does parental self-awareness matter more than parenting style?
Andrew and Caroline discuss how much our own self-awareness as parents shape the way our kids turn out?
From yelling regrets and chore battles this episode blends humour with honest reflection. They explore how everyday reactions, no matter how big or small, shape connection, resilience, and emotional safety.
Listeners hear real examples of repair, frustration, boundaries, and the awkward but important skill of owning our mistakes. The message running through the conversation: parenting isn’t about perfection. What matters is noticing our reactions, understanding their impact, and showing kids what growth looks like in real time.
Ideal for anyone looking for grounded, relatable conversations about emotional modeling, relationship repair, and realistic parenting.
Homework Ideas
Daily One-Minute Reflection
At the end of the day, jot down one moment where you felt proud of your response and one moment you want to change next time.
Purpose: builds habits without shame.
Repair in Real Time
When you lose your cool or snap, go back later with a short, clear statement:
“I didn’t like how I handled that. Next time I’m going to try __.”
Purpose: teaches kids accountability, not fear. Just be sure you do try something different next time!
“Pause and Separate” Strategy
If emotions spike, walk away before continuing the conversation.
Purpose: models regulation more effectively than trying to force calm.
Identify Your Trigger Points
List the situations that reliably set you off. Then choose one and plan a calmer response for next time.
Purpose: reduces reactive patterns.
Consistent, Clear Boundaries
Choose one boundary that matters. Follow through on it for a full week without debating or lecturing.
Purpose: builds predictability and reduces power struggles.
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