Simple Families Podcast: Parenting | Simple Living | Minimalism | Purposeful Life With Kids + Family

I hear this time and time again: time-outs don’t work. So why do we keep using them? In this episode we talk about why I don’t recommend time outs for very young children. Cooperation Mini Course  The post SFP 38: What to do when time-outs aren’t working? appeared first on Simple Families.

Parents are not referees–it’s important that they realize that early. In today’s episode, we talk about managing competition in sibling relationships. The post SFP 37: How do I handle competition between siblings? appeared first on Simple Families.

It’s not always easy to let “things” go. In today’s episode, we discuss how to keep the conversation positive with kids–along with two key questions to ask. The post SFP 36: How can I teach kids to let go of their possessions? appeared first on Simple Families.

On the podcast today I am answering a question about how to discipline very young children. The post SFP 35: How should I discipline very young children? appeared first on Simple Families.

Birthday celebrations shouldn’t be complicated—they should be focused on what is important. In today’s episode, I discuss why we should keep celebrations small, intimate, and focused on the needs of the child. The post SFP 34: Is it possible to have a simple birthday party? appeared first on Simple Families.

In this episode we discuss switching a child’s bedroom in anticipation of a new sibling. I also talk about making the switch from the crib to a toddler bed.  The post SFP 33: Should I change my toddler’s bedroom? appeared first on Simple Families.

In today’s episode we are discussing how to repurpose items we have from decluttering. The post SFP 32: How do I repurpose the things I have from decluttering? appeared first on Simple Families.

Every parent deals with kids that interrupt. Today we are discussing two approaches of how to handle this challenge. The post SFP 31: How do I stop my kid from interrupting? appeared first on Simple Families.

Many of you are probably blessed with family and friends who love to give your children gifts. In this episode we are discussing how to talk to family members about toy minimalism. The post SFP 30: How do I handle family members who give too many gifts? appeared first on Simple Families.

Our kids are not going to be good at everything. In today’s episode we discuss how to approach a child that is not having success in sports or other activities. The post SFP 29: Should I encourage my kids to do things they aren’t good at? appeared first on Simple Families.

Sometimes our kids can feel impossible at meal times. In this episode, I give my best advice–and it might surprise you. The post SFP 28: How do I end food battles with my kid? appeared first on Simple Families.

In today’s episode I am answering a question from a mother about pretend play. She wonders how often she should intervene when there are disagreements or when the play shifts to an inappropriate story line. The post SFP 27: When should I interrupt my kid’s play? appeared first on Simple Families.

Sometimes babies get restless–but how much entertaining should we do as parents? In today’s episode I answer a question about how to handle a restless, bored baby. The post SFP 26: What should I do if my baby gets bored? appeared first on Simple Families.

In today’s episode we discuss how to handle big transitions with toddlers–things like moving, starting a new school, and having a new baby. The post SFP 25: How much transition can a kid handle? appeared first on Simple Families.

Preparing for your first baby can be overwhelming. Today I discuss how I suggest you spend time preparing during pregnancy, including some of my favorite books. Show Links/Notes: The Best 5 Books to Read Before a Baby The post SFP 24: How do I prepare for my first baby? appeared first on Simple Families.

In today’s episode we discuss how to maintain a minimalist play space when you have children of various ages. Show Notes/Links: Video Tour of our Minimalist Playroom The 25 Best Toys Get the Toy Detox The post SFP 23: How does toy minimalism work with different aged siblings? appeared first on Simple Families.

In today’s episode I respond to a question about how much we should push our kids to be successful. I explain that parents should provide support when teaching new skills, but kids might actually benefit when parents “disappear” and give them opportunity to persevere on their own. SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Get the Toy Detox The post SFP 22: How much should I push my kid to succeed? appeared first on Simple Families.

In today’s episode we are discussing how to handle the “stranger danger” talk with your children. I am not a fan of putting fear and anxiety into children. I think you can educate them and prepare them for life without scaring them. It’s important that children have opportunities to practice socializing with new adults, but at the same time maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism. Show Notes/Links: The Toy Detox How to Teach Your Kids Consent (Huff Post) The post SFP 21: Should I encourage my kid to be friendly to strangers? appeared first on Simple Families.

It can be difficult to wean a baby off of a bottle. In this episode I discuss the transition from formula/breastmilk to cow’s milk. I also explain the attachment to the bottle and why this process is so difficult. I also discuss things to keep in mind when making the switch from bottles to cups. Show Notes/Links Are sippy cups even necessary? Open Training Cup Open glass (6 to 12 months) Open glass (12 to 24 months) The post SFP 20: How do I cut out the bottles? appeared first on Simple Families.

In this episode I will discuss three things to consider when preparing your child for a sibling. We will also discuss what type of behavior and emotions you might encounter from a young child during this period as well. I wrap up with the one thing I wish I would have known before having my second baby. Show Notes: Sign up for the Toy Detox The New Baby Book (Depicts breastfeeding) Rocker made for 3 + Ottoman The post SFP 19: How do I prepare my child for a new sibling? appeared first on Simple Families.