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
210. What Do You Do When Your Kid Is the Problem?
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When another parent pulls you aside and says your kid is the problem… what do you actually do?
In this episode, Andrew and Caroline get real about one of the hardest parenting moments: facing the possibility that your child is the one causing harm. From playground conflicts to teen behaviour that crosses a line, they unpack why so many parents jump to defensiveness and what it costs our kids when we do.
Through honest stories including Caroline’s own “my kid would never…” moment, they walk through how to stay grounded, gather the full story, and respond in a way that actually helps your child grow.
You will hear practical ways to
Respond without escalating conflict between parents
Talk to your child without shutting them down
Separate defending your child from excusing behaviour
Reinforce values like accountability, empathy, and self awareness
Support kids who struggle with impulse control or social cues
This episode is for parents who want to raise kids others trust, respect, and want to be around and who are willing to look inward to get there.
Homework Activities for Parents
The Full Story First Conversation
Ask “Anything I should know about today?”
Let them talk without interrupting
No correcting, no lecturing
Goal is to get their version before reacting
Values Check In
Ask: “What kind of person do you want to be at school?”
“What matters more here being right or keeping the relationship?
Goal: build internal decision making
Pre Event Reset
Quick check in before school or social situations
“What did we talk about yesterday?”
“What would a good day look like?”
Goal: to interrupt repeat behaviour
Pattern Break for Impulsive Kids
Add structure or supervision in problem situations
Reduce unstructured time temporarily
Goal: to prevent behaviour before it starts
Separate Behaviour from Identity
Say “I am on your side. We still need to fix this.”
Goal: to maintain trust while addressing behaviour
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