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Episode Description: Parenting comes with worries — but when anxiety sticks around, overthinking every decision and anticipating worst-case scenarios can take a real toll on you and your family. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we talk candidly about what it's like to parent when you have anxiety. We'll explore how anxiety shows up in everyday moments, how it can subtly influence parenting behaviors, and practical ways to cope so you can build confidence — not stress — into your family's daily life. You'll hear research-based tips on managing your own anxiety without passing it down to your kids, how to model healthy emotional management, and why self-care isn't just a luxury — it's a parenting tool. Whether your worry feels occasional or constant, this episode is here to help you parent with intention, calm, and compassion.   Key Takeaways: Anxiety doesn't disqualify you from being a good parent. Many parents experience persistent worry; you're not alone.  Your own coping skills become your child's roadmap. Kids observe how you handle stress — showing them healthy management is one of the best gifts you can give. You don't have to hide your feelings — you can teach through them. It's okay to say, "I'm anxious right now, and here's how I'm working through it."  Boundaries and self-care aren't selfish — they're protective. Setting limits and carving out time for peace helps you regulate your anxiety so you can be present with your kids. Professional support is a strength, not a stigma. Therapy, if needed, can equip you and your family with tools that transform your day-to-day experience.

In Digging In: Cultivating Curiosity Through Gardening and Biodiversity, we explore how everyday experiences in nature—from planting a garden to discovering bugs in the soil—play a powerful role in children's learning and development. Designed for both parents and early childhood professionals, this episode highlights how hands-on outdoor experiences build curiosity, confidence, healthy habits, and environmental awareness, while offering practical, approachable ways adults can support safe exploration and meaningful connections to the natural world. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Gardening nurtures responsibility, patience, and healthy habits while sparking sensory-rich learning experiences. Exposure to diverse plants, insects, and ecosystems builds problem-solving skills and resilience. Real encounters with soil, bugs, and weather deepen children's appreciation for the environment. Families and educators can encourage safe exploration while modeling care for natural habitats. Simple, age-appropriate garden activities foster lifelong curiosity and environmental stewardship.  

The holidays are supposed to be magical… but for many parents, they also come with pressure, comparison, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. In this honest and laugh-filled conversation, we unpack the stressors that make this season feel so heavy—gift-giving guilt, family obligations, overstimulated kids, and the myth of the "perfect holiday parent." We explore why the holidays often trigger disappointment and burnout, how to set boundaries with grace, and why your kids don't need a picture-perfect season to feel loved. You'll hear real stories, practical strategies, and gentle reminders that your worth is not measured by matching pajamas or how many family dinners you attend. This episode is a permission slip to slow down, ditch the pressure, and build a holiday that actually feels good for your family.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: 1. Presence > Perfection - Your kids will remember how the holidays felt, not how perfect they looked. Emotional connection matters far more than gifts, matching outfits, or elaborate plans. 2. You Don't Have to Do It All - Family expectations, multiple gatherings, big budgets, and nonstop events are optional. You're allowed to create boundaries—and new traditions. 3. Kids Aren't Misbehaving… They're Overwhelmed - Holiday overstimulation is real. Meltdowns are normal, not personal failures. Simple adjustments can make the season easier on everyone. 4. Break Up With the "Shoulds" - Let go of inherited traditions or expectations that no longer fit your family. Choose what brings you peace, not pressure. 5. A Happier Holiday Starts With Realistic Expectations - The most meaningful seasons are built on connection, rest, and joy—not on comparison or obligation.

When our kids are melting down, it can feel impossible to stay calm — but that's exactly when they need our calm the most. In this episode of Unrattled, we sit down with licensed therapist Lauren Poiroux-Harvey from The Sommer House in Mobile to explore the life-changing power of co-regulation — the process of calming our children by calming ourselves. Lauren breaks down what co-regulation really means, why it's essential for healthy brain development, and how parents can begin practicing it (even when they feel completely tapped out). We get real about the hard moments — tantrums in public, multiple kids melting down at once, and what to do when you lose your cool — and offer practical tools you can use right away to create connection instead of chaos. If you've ever wondered how to guide your child through big feelings without losing yourself in the process, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and equipped with tools to bring more calm into your home.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Co-regulation is the foundation of self-regulation — children first learn to calm down by borrowing our calm. Our nervous system matters — kids pick up on our stress just as much as our calm. It's not about being perfect — we all lose our cool sometimes; what matters is repair and reconnection afterward. Staying calm is a skill we can practice — simple grounding strategies (breathing, pausing, lowering our voice) help us regulate in tough moments. Big feelings are opportunities, not threats — co-regulation turns tantrums and meltdowns into teachable moments for connection. Safe exploration of emotions builds resilience — when children see us manage stress, they learn how to manage their own. Small steps add up — even choosing one calming practice to try this week can shift the atmosphere at home or in the classroom.

Parenting doesn't come with a manual—or a guarantee that we'll always feel ready for what comes next. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we're talking about what it really means to "do it scared." Together, we'll unpack the courage it takes to act even when fear and self-doubt creep in—whether it's going back to school, starting therapy, changing jobs, or simply showing up differently at home. Through personal stories and honest conversation, we explore how parents can stop waiting for perfect timing, learn to trust their own worth, and model bravery for their children in everyday moments. Because courage isn't the absence of fear—it's moving forward in spite of it.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Courage isn't the absence of fear—it's choosing action anyway. Growth begins when we stop waiting to feel ready. Your children learn bravery by watching you try. Modeling imperfection teaches them that fear and failure are part of learning. Self-trust comes before external validation. You don't need permission to believe in your own worth or purpose. Progress over perfection. Taking one small, brave step forward builds momentum and confidence. Fear can be a compass. What scares you most often points toward the next area of growth, healing, or purpose.  

What started as a well-intentioned shift toward empathy and connection has, for many families, turned into confusion, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. In this episode, clinical psychologist and author Dr. Emily Edlynn joins us to unpack the "gentle parenting" trend—and why it may be doing more harm than good. Drawing from her book Autonomy-Supportive Parenting, Dr. Edlynn explains how we can move beyond buzzwords and social media soundbites to embrace a research-backed approach that balances warmth, boundaries, and child independence. If you've ever felt unsure about how to stay kind and in charge as a parent, this episode is for you.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Being a supportive parent doesn't mean being permissive—structure, boundaries, and emotional connection can (and should) coexist. Autonomy-supportive parenting offers a science-backed alternative that promotes healthy independence, emotional regulation, and mutual respect between parent and child. Social media often simplifies or distorts complex parenting ideas, so it's important to look beyond influencer advice and turn to evidence-based guidance. Parents deserve grace, realistic expectations, and flexible strategies that support both their children's development and their own well-being.

For many families, thinking about financial planning can feel like a luxury—especially when every dollar is already accounted for and daily survival takes center stage. In this episode, we take a realistic look at how small, intentional steps can lead to greater peace of mind, especially in tough economic times. We're not talking spreadsheets or lectures—we're talking about mindset, habits, and legacy. Whether you're living paycheck to paycheck or trying to shift generational patterns, this episode will meet you where you are and offer supportive tools for planning your family's future… one step at a time.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: You don't have to be "ready" to start. - Financial peace doesn't begin with perfection—it begins with one small, intentional step toward stability or clarity. Survival mode is real—and so is your power to plan. - Even when times are hard, taking small actions today can ease stress tomorrow and create a greater sense of control. Your relationship with money was shaped long before today. - Recognizing where your money mindset comes from can help you shift harmful patterns and create new ones for your family. Teaching your kids about money starts with what they see. - Everyday moments—like grocery shopping, saving change, or talking about needs vs. wants—lay the foundation for lifelong financial habits. Planning ahead is an act of love. - Whether it's choosing a trusted guardian, setting aside a few dollars, or just dreaming about what's possible—your effort today is a gift to your future self and your children.

In this foundational episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we begin the conversation around neurodivergence—what it means, how it may present in young children, and when parents might start noticing signs. With expert insight from Dr. Abigail Baxter, a longtime GRECS partner and advocate for inclusive early education, we'll unpack the terminology, explore the diversity of neurodevelopmental differences, and help families understand what's typical, what's not, and when to seek support. This episode is designed for parents at the beginning of their journey, offering clarity, reassurance, and resources without overwhelming jargon or judgment. Whether you're wondering about your child's behavior or just want to better understand the topic, this is a compassionate and informative place to start.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Neurodivergence is not a diagnosis—it's a way of understanding differences in how brains process, learn, and experience the world. It includes a wide range of developmental and cognitive variations, such as autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences. Early signs of neurodivergence can show up in many ways—including communication delays, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty with transitions—but every child is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all checklist, which is why observation and support matter more than labels. You don't need to wait for a formal diagnosis to begin supporting your child. Trust your instincts, seek guidance, and focus on creating a supportive, responsive environment that meets your child's needs now. Labels and language can be empowering when used to access resources and community—but they should never be used to define or limit a child. You are not alone. —Parenting a neurodivergent child can feel isolating, but there are professionals, support networks, and other families who understand the journey and are ready to walk alongside you.   Visit our website for FREE resources on this topic.

Inclusion in early learning isn't just a practice—it's a mindset that shapes how every child is welcomed, supported, and celebrated. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Abigail Baxter and parent advocate, Anna Knight, to explore what true inclusion looks like in child care and early education settings. Together, they share practical strategies, candid experiences, and heartfelt reflections on how educators and families can work side by side to create classrooms where children with special needs thrive alongside their peers. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or parent, this conversation will inspire you to see inclusion as both possible and powerful.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Inclusion benefits all children—it teaches empathy, compassion, and resilience while supporting every child's unique development. Collaboration is essential—strong partnerships between families, educators, and specialists create consistent and effective support. Barriers can be overcome—misconceptions and fears often hold programs back, but openness and access to resources make inclusion achievable. Families need to feel heard—listening to parents' experiences builds trust and strengthens the support system for the child. Small shifts matter—simple changes in mindset, routines, and expectations can make classrooms more welcoming and inclusive tomorrow.

Episode Description: Parenting isn't about keeping the peace at all costs—it's about teaching, guiding, and sometimes saying "no" even when it's hard. In this episode, Lauren Poiroux Harvey joins us for a powerful conversation on setting boundaries with love, clarity, and confidence. We unpack why conflict with your child isn't something to fear or avoid—and how avoiding it may actually do more harm than good. Get real-world insights on what it means to stay grounded when your child is pushing back, why "calm" doesn't mean "permissive," and how to build trust by holding consistent limits. If you've ever questioned whether you're being too hard—or not hard enough—this episode is for you.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Conflict is not a sign of bad parenting—it's part of the process. Disagreements and emotional pushback are normal and necessary as children learn about limits, boundaries, and emotional regulation. Boundaries create safety, not disconnection. Setting clear and consistent limits helps children feel secure, even when they react negatively in the moment. Calm doesn't mean passive. Parents can hold firm boundaries with love and clarity while still modeling emotional regulation and empathy. Avoiding conflict often leads to bigger problems later. When parents shy away from hard moments, children may miss opportunities to build resilience, accountability, and respect for others. You can lead with compassion and still say "no." Healthy parenting is about guiding children, not pleasing them—and it's possible to do so without yelling, guilt, or giving in.  

Choosing child care is one of the most important—and often overwhelming—decisions families face. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we're joined by Victoria Bolton, a trusted GRECS colleague and coach for Alabama's Infant Toddler Network, to help make the process easier. We break down what quality care really looks like, what questions to ask, and how to find a child care program that fits your family's needs, values, and routine. Whether you're returning to work, expecting a new baby, or just starting your search, this conversation will give you confidence and clarity.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Start with your family's needs. Consider your child's age, your work schedule, location preferences, and what kind of environment your child thrives in before exploring options. Quality care is more than convenience. Look for trained caregivers, low child-to-adult ratios, safe and engaging environments, and programs that support your child's development. Ask the right questions. Touring a child care program is essential—prepare to ask about daily routines, communication with families, safety policies, and how they support children's learning and behavior.  Pay attention to red flags. High staff turnover, lack of transparency, or poor cleanliness can indicate a program may not be the best fit for your child's well-being.

You know outdoor play is good for your kids. Fresh air, room to move, fewer meltdowns, more joy—it just works. But let's be real: getting your child outside every day isn't always easy. And the same goes for their early learning program. In this episode of UNrattled, we dig into what's really getting in the way of outdoor play—at home and in child care settings. From unpredictable weather and safety worries to busy routines and differing expectations, we explore the common obstacles that stand between children and the outdoor time they need. You'll hear from educators and parents as we unpack the challenges—and share practical, realistic ways to make outdoor play happen more often, without adding pressure to your day. Because even small shifts can make a big difference—and your child deserves every minute of movement, exploration, and sunshine.   Key Takeaways: Outdoor play is essential, not optional - It supports every domain of child development—including physical health, emotional regulation, social skills, and executive functioning—and deserves intentional time and planning. Barriers to outdoor play are real and varied - Educators face legitimate challenges such as safety concerns, staffing limitations, weather, scheduling, and family expectations, which can all reduce outdoor time. Parents may need help seeing the learning in outdoor play - Some families view outdoor time as less valuable than classroom activities. Clear communication, documentation, and education can shift those perceptions. Small changes can lead to big improvements - Solutions don't always require major resources—things like clearer parent communication, better preparation for weather, or flexible scheduling can increase outdoor opportunities. Collaboration is key - When educators and families work together to address concerns and share a vision, children benefit from more consistent, meaningful outdoor experiences.

We're back! In this casual kickoff to Season 3, Jessica, Venay, and our returning regular guest Joshua Jones catch up on summer adventures, share some honest "rattled moments," and talk about what it really feels like to settle into a new school year. Joshua reintroduces himself to listeners, opens up about life as a girl dad, and gives us a glimpse into what he's bringing to the podcast this season. It's light, real, and full of the kind of laughs and connection we all need as we dive into another year of parenting.   Key Takeaways for Listeners: Transitions are tough—for kids and parents. - Adjusting to new routines, schedules, and expectations takes time. You're not alone if your household still feels a little chaotic. Even seasoned parents get rattled. - Our team shares personal stories that prove no one has it all together—and that's okay. Being present matters more than being perfect. - Whether it's a summer fail or a back-to-school meltdown, showing up and trying again makes the biggest impact. Parenting is a team sport. - Introducing Joshua Jones as a returning guest reminds us that having a support system—whether it's friends, family, or a podcast community—makes the journey more manageable and meaningful.

Is screen time hurting or helping your child's development? It depends on how you use it. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we sit down with early childhood leaders from Alabama Public Television (APT) to explore how trusted media like PBS Kids programming can actually support healthy brain development, boost literacy, and encourage social-emotional growth. Director of Early Childhood Education Tiffany Armstrong and her colleagues Pauline Lewis and Lisa Nunn break down how parents, caregivers, and educators can access free parenting resources that align with the latest research in child development. You'll learn how APT and PBS have created intentional, educational screen time experiences through shows like Sesame Street and Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, and how APT's in-person and online training programs serve families and child care professionals across Alabama. The conversation also addresses screen time guidelines for toddlers, how to balance media with play and conversation, and why co-viewing makes all the difference. Whether you're raising a toddler, teaching preschoolers, or just trying to navigate technology with intention, this episode will equip you with practical insights and tools you can use today. Perfect for: Parents of young children Child care providers and early educators Grandparents and caregivers Anyone interested in using media to support learning at home   Key Takeaways: Alabama Public Television offers free professional development and family engagement tools for early childhood educators and parents PBS Kids shows are research-backed and designed to prompt interaction and learning, not passive watching Parents are encouraged to co-view and engage with children during screen time to maximize educational benefits APT's online courses and in-person training are available to anyone in Alabama, including non-educators Using television and media in the classroom or home can be intentional, developmentally appropriate, and highly effective   Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction and guest welcome 01:00 – Meet the Alabama Public Television Early Learning Team 03:00 – APT's history with PBS and commitment to early childhood development 05:00 – From Mister Rogers to Daniel Tiger: how media influences learning 07:30 – How APT uses educational shows as training tools 09:00 – APT's free online training courses and resources for parents and educators 11:00 – Parents as first teachers: why APT welcomes families to all its learning platforms 13:00 – Face-to-face training opportunities across Alabama 15:00 – Using media and storytelling to highlight Alabama history in early education 17:00 – What is developmentally appropriate screen time? 18:30 – Redefining screen time for toddlers, especially in a post-pandemic world 20:00 – Why interaction matters more than time limits 21:00 – How PBS shows are designed to encourage child participation 22:00 – The difference between high-quality and overstimulating media 23:30 – Screen time strategies for parents and caregivers 24:30 – Where to find APT in your community and how to get involved 25:30 – Final thoughts on partnerships, support, and continued access   Call to Action: Visit aptv.org to explore free parenting tools, online training, and PBS Kids resources. Subscribe to UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents and leave a review to help more parents find our show.

In this special episode of UNrattled, recorded live from the Gulf Coast Early Childhood Summer Symposium, we sit down with Dr. Craig Bailey—Director of Early Childhood at Yale's Center for Emotional Intelligence—to unpack one of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools in parenting and education: emotional intelligence. Dr. Bailey introduces us to RULER, Yale's groundbreaking approach to social-emotional learning (SEL), which stands for Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions. Through storytelling, science, and humor, he helps us understand why SEL begins with the adults in children's lives and how we can't teach what we haven't first practiced ourselves. From toddlers to teens, kids thrive when adults model emotional awareness, empathy, and healthy expression—and Dr. Bailey gives us a blueprint for doing just that. We dive into practical ways to "name it to tame it," how to help children build emotional vocabulary, and why traditional strategies like deep breathing only work after we've learned to identify what we're feeling. You'll also hear real-life examples from Dr. Bailey's own family, including a lightbulb parenting moment involving preschool drop-off and a mysterious stomachache. Plus, we explore how to use children's books—not just the obvious emotion-themed titles, but rich narrative stories like The Dot—to spark conversations about pride, bravery, disappointment, and more. If you're a parent, educator, or anyone who supports young children, this episode will challenge and inspire you to rethink how you respond to big feelings—and maybe even grow your own emotional intelligence along the way. 00:00–01:08 – When you don't know how to help your child manage big emotions 01:09–01:36 – Meet Dr. Craig Bailey from Yale's Center for Emotional Intelligence 01:37–02:36 – What is the RULER framework and how does it work? 02:37–04:35 – Why RULER starts with adult emotional learning 04:36–06:40 – Helping adults learn the skills we expect kids to use 06:41–08:15 – "You want me to work on myself?" Why adult growth is uncomfortable but essential 08:16–09:56 – Therapy, Mister Rogers, and how labeling feelings helps 09:57–12:44 – The power of naming emotions: a real-life story about anxiety 12:45–14:05 – "Name it to tame it": why labeling leads to regulation 14:06–15:32 – A child calling out a yelling teacher—and why that's emotional intelligence 15:33–17:31 – Why strategies don't work if you skip teaching emotion recognition 17:32–20:10 – When kids' emotions seem ridiculous to adults: the Lego vs. stolen car analogy 20:11–22:50 – Emotional practice starts in babyhood and prepares you for teenage years 22:51–23:48 – Using children's books to teach emotions: not just the obvious ones 23:49–26:13 – Why The Dot is a powerful book for teaching pride and emotional growth 26:14–28:13 – Understanding others' emotions: how stories build perspective-taking 28:14–29:12 – Helping kids articulate pride and build emotional intelligence through narratives 29:13–29:49 – Wrapping up: why Dr. Bailey's message resonated with educators 29:50–30:34 – Credits and closing message