Your best is still your best when you don't have as much to give. This week, Gwenna and Tori talk all about emotions, what to do with them, and how to feel your feelings without making them everyone else's problem. They get into their coping mechanisms, how to teach your kids about processing their emotions, and the ways we co-regulate with other adults both IRL and online. Whether your head hurts or your heart hurts, you deserve to feel better. Email us at [email protected] to let us know how you regulate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Good parents never stop thinking they’re doing a bad job; bad parents never stop to wonder if they’re doing a good one. This week, Gwenna and Tori turn to the Childproof inbox to read your emails, and share some thoughts of their own. Much to Gwenna's dismay, it turns out Surge *did* have a short-lived revival. And much to Tori's dismay, the debate about what part of NY is actually Upstate appears to be never-ending. They cover everything from the very relatable fear of messing up your kids, to an ingenious hack for winning arguments, some fresh takes on school subject folder colors, and what happens when you become obsessed with Dr. Kevorkian. Gwenna successfully Rick Rolls her husband, Tori manages to reference Hamilton more than twice, and they share the universally understood Feet Under The Door method of bringing your kids into public bathrooms. Finally, they close out the episode with an impassioned rant about changing tables. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just because you've never *seen* a tiger robot stuffy, that doesn't meant it doesn't exist. This week, Gwenna and Tori are here to help distract you from the news cycle with a mini games episode. They share their latest cute kid-isms ("My leg brains forgot"), pet updates, thoughts on all the most nostalgic foods from their own childhood (do Lunchables actually taste worse now or have our tastebuds changed?), and a few rounds of Would You Rather. To close out the episode, they try their best to stump each other with 2 Truths and a Lie. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever found yourself googling "Why is my child saying gyatt?" into the wee hours of the morning? This week, Gwenna and Tori turn to Google Auto Complete for the internet's most burning parenting questions, and share their insights. They tackle everything from "Why do kids walk on their toes?" and "When should kids learn to read?" to "When should parents have The Talk?" and what to do if "My kid keeps getting bit at daycare." They unpack the joys of kids finding their own way to vampire literature, the pains of tummy time, and why lying might not be as big of a red flag as you think. Ultimately, if you're googling it, it might be time to just call your doctor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your child has ever screamed in a library, had a melt down in the freezer aisle, or if you've ever felt like apologizing for having kids (you don't!), then this episode is for you. In this episode of Childproof, Tori and Gwenna discuss the unpredictable nature of parenting, particularly in public settings. Together they chat about focusing on teaching children safety, social skills, and empathy while setting expectations. They dive into the challenges parents face when navigating public environments with children and the strategies they employ to foster good behavior and awareness in their kids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why does it seem like reverse psychology only works when you don't want it to!? In this episode, Tori and Gwenna explore the humorous and often frustrating paradoxes of parenting. They discuss the conundrum of finding clothes that actually fit children, how illnesses always seems to strike before vacation, and the flabbergasting peculiarities of children's memories. Tori and Gwenna explore the complexities of their children's development, the significance of creating safe spaces for sharing, and the humorous yet frustrating realities of navigating food preferences and helpfulness in children.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a hobby collector, this episode is for you. Gwenna and Tori discuss their many extracurricular pastimes, past and present (RIP Tori's miniature building), and why occupying your hands can be the key to quieting your mind. They catch each other up on their kids' hobbies, how to figure out if their latest fixation is a true passion or just a phase, and what to do when your kid gets really into something you never cared about before. Then, they cover the ways parents can avoid the pitfall of making your kids your hobby at the expense of their own personal interests. And finally, they highlight the importance of building in breaks (and boredom) into both your and your kids' schedules. Make sure to check out Gwenna's Hobby series over on her YouTube Channel, Pleasant Peasant Media! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teachers are a vital part of our village, and they are on our side. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori unpack all things back to school, from field trips, to pockets full of rocks, and bafflingly disorganized folders. They tackle the question that every parent faces when it comes to their kids’ projects: keep or throw away? And is your kid’s head just itchy, or it is another lice outbreak? All we know for sure, is that a tiny dinosaur is a very tiny problem. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time for another mail bag! Gwenna and Tori dive right into the Childproof inbox to see what’s been on the listeners’ minds, and share some stories of their own. They cover everything from embarrassing your kids, to learning to give yourself grace when you lose your cool, and memories of getting lost in the supermarket. Then, in a segment sponsored by Splash Refresher, they share some of their self-care essentials. And finally, they close out the episode with some listener reviews. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes, bribery is the solution to the problems you create for yourself. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori compare notes on some of the weird things they’ve done and said for their kids, from emotional support rats, to Hamilton hyper-fixations, and explaining how libraries work. Gwenna discovers that breakfast candy can rewire years of sleep habits, Tori explains a hack for making sandwiches more palatable for their kid, and they go over their Halloween essentials in a special segment sponsored by Splash Refresher. Tori tells Gwenna about their kid’s “YouTube Channel” (vlogs on Tori’s camera roll that never get posted anywhere), which leads into a discussion about Instagram’s new Teen Accounts and how parents can keep their kids safe on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is no right or wrong way to celebrate birthdays. In this episode, Tori and Gwenna share their reasons for not hosting parties, the challenges of planning and organizing kids parties, and the importance of accessibility and inclusivity. They also talk about their own birthday traditions and celebrations, including decorations and treats. They share tips and advice on topics such as opening presents at the party, handling rowdy behavior, sending invitations, dealing with cake mishaps, communicating dietary needs, and talking to kids about giving and receiving gifts. Plus, Tori and Gwenna share their parenting must haves in a special segment sponsored by Splash Refresher! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If a child is old enough to ask a question, they are old enough to deserve an answer. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori discuss the importance of having hard conversations with kids about topics like death, divorce, and illness. They also highlight the need to take time to think before responding to difficult questions and to approach these conversations in a developmentally appropriate way. They share personal experiences of navigating difficult conversations, such as the death of a pet and a family member's heart attack. They also discuss the role of humor in coping with difficult situations and the importance of creating a safe space for children to express their feelings. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for open and honest communication with children while considering their individual needs and understanding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Routines, habits, schedules, and systems are different but interconnected. In this episode, Tori and Gwenna share personal examples of how they have implemented systems in their own lives, such as organizing art supplies and keeping track of iPads. They also discuss the importance of buy-in from children and how to get them involved in the system-building process. Together they discuss the need to adapt and modify systems as children grow and circumstances change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you think you were going to be packing bento boxes or going on every field trip, but then never did? That’s ok, us too. In this episode, Tori and Gwenna discuss their expectations of parenthood versus the reality. They explore how our expectations can be way different than the realities of parenting, focusing on various aspects such as teaching kids to drive, cooking creative meals, taking family photos, managing screen time, and participating in sports activities. Together, they highlight how the challenges and joys of parenting expand when we adapt and adjust to the reality of expectations as children grow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kids music parents will actually like?! This week, Tori and Gwenna are joined by Tim Kubart, a Grammy Award winning children’s musician, to share his journey into the world of children's music and his approach to creating engaging and meaningful songs for kids. Together they discuss the importance of finding a balance between not talking down to kids and not talking over their heads, while making music that is accessible and enjoyable for parents, too! Tim delves into the importance of honesty and kindness, his approach to tackling real issues like children’s mental health, and his collaboration with illustrator Laurie Richmond on his book 'Oopsie Do'. Plus, Tim discusses his new song, 'Really Real You' - trust us, you won’t be able to resist a dance party with your kiddos! @timkubart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tori and Gwenna dive into the complexities of parenting with wisdom and humor as they tackle the tough questions: Should you skip errands on a rough day? How can parents help kids manage their fears? They offer invaluable advice on staying flexible, regulating emotions, and embracing the silly moments with your little ones. Drawing from personal experiences, they offer insights on navigating transitions like moving homes and helping kids transition from cribs to big beds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Who is ready for their kids to go back to school?!” If you raised your hand, you’re in good company. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori discuss the buzz of the new school year, the challenges of back-to-school shopping, and strategies for buying school supplies. Their mantra: "Reuse, reuse, reuse!" In this anticipatory episode, they touch on everything from drop-off line etiquette to uncomfy school shoes to finding peace in not being a Bento-box parent. Plus, the importance of involving teachers in decisions about fidgets and school supplies that double as toys (because we all know it's coming). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tori and Gwenna delve into the intricate world of parenting children with deep passions, exploring how their kids' intense interests shape their family dynamics. Reflecting on the influence of pop culture on their kids' knowledge and the importance of finding common ground, they discuss the nuances of malicious compliance and various ways children express emotions. From the joys of discovering glitter's allure to appreciating life's small wonders, they explore sensory preferences in clothing and the valuable lessons learned from their children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tori and Gwenna discuss the challenges of parenting middle grade, preteen, and teenage children. They emphasize the importance of maintaining open communication and trust with their children during this stage while addressing the misconception that teenagers are solely driven by hormones. They recommend Rachel Coler Mulholland's book, 'The Birds, The Bees, and The Elephant in the Room,' as a helpful resource for navigating teenagers and the need for open communication. Tori and Gwenna round it out by emphasizing the importance of empathy, mutual respect, and boundary-setting when parenting middle graders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this second episode of Ages and Stages, Gwenna and Tori discuss the unique challenges and experiences of parenting children in the pre-K to third grade age range. They talk about the importance of setting boundaries with screens, teaching children to be bored and creative, navigating conflicts and emotions, and the random rules and commands that come with this age. They share their experiences and insights on a child's development of personalities, interests, and friendships. They also touch on the milestone of starting school and the emotions that come with it. The conversation also delves into the topic of screen time and the challenges parents face in managing it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to our first Ages and Stages episode. This week, Tori and Gwenna walk through the early years. They emphasize trusting your instincts, prioritizing sleep, and realizing that disposable products can be self care. They discuss letting go of worries, balancing challenges, and dealing with regressions, while also stressing the importance of keeping and creating memories. They share their stories and advice on scrapbooking, gentle parenting, and the significance of repetition and communication in parenting toddlers (even though you hate it). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you don't listen to this episode, I'm telling Mom! This week, Tori and Gwenna discuss the dynamics of sibling relationships, sharing their own experiences and how they navigate conflicts and foster strong bonds. They emphasize the importance of boundaries, autonomy, and communication, addressing issues like tattling, sibling competition, and comparison. They encourage fostering positive sibling relationships and teaching children to be gracious winners and losers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kids say the darnedest things. In this episode, Tori and Gwenna discuss how to handle kids saying mean sh*t. They emphasize teaching children about social norms, empathy, and the impact of their words. They also stress the importance of teaching intent versus impact and navigating sarcasm and phrases like "no offense" and "just kidding." To close they read off some listener emails about childhood memories and Furby nightmares. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bring out the feelings wheel! In this episode, Gwenna and Tori emphasize the importance of allowing children to experience and express their emotions. They share practical tools like the ‘feelings wheel’ and ‘catastrophe scale’ to help children regulate their emotions, and discuss the role of boundaries, including the necessity of making children mad to enforce them. They share their own experiences, highlighting the need for parents to model emotional intelligence, repair mistakes, and distinguish between big feelings and trauma. The Feelings Wheel: Feelingswheel.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This will definitely be a core memory. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori discuss their issues with the movie Inside Out and how it introduced 'core memories' into society. They share how comparing themselves to their own highlight reels is a common occurrence among parents, but even their bloopers aren't as bad as they think. The duo swap core memory stories from both their past as well as ones they have unintentionally given their kids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer has begun! In this episode, Gwenna and Tori share their excitement and challenges of the summer season, including the chaos of end-of-school-year activities and the need for balance between structured activities and free time. They share their summer bucket list activities like learning to swim, digging a hole, and going to the library. They close with listing off the wacky rules their families have to implement during summer vacation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I think it's time we have "The Talk". Tori and Gwenna are joined by Rachel Coller Mulholland, a nationally certified counselor and author of 'The Birds, The Bees and The Elephant in the Room,' to discuss the importance of having tough conversations with kids about sex and other sensitive topics. Rachel provides advice for parents feeling shame or discomfort around these conversations and emphasizes comprehensive sex education. The book is divided by age appropriateness and covers topics like body awareness, puberty, consent, and healthy relationships, offering a framework for discussing sensitive topics and building trust. Pre-Order 'The Birds, The Bees and The Elephant in the Room': https://shorturl.at/NZjBW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don’t be nervous! This week, Gwenna and Tori are joined by Philippa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran to discuss their children's book 'Piper Chen Sings' and the inspiration behind it. They talk about the importance of kids acknowledging and navigating through their bigger emotions like stage fright. The book aims to empower children to embrace their feelings and find their voice. To close out, Gwenna and Tori play a game of Dry Side or Wet Side, brought to you by Splash Refresher. Do you look at the dry side or wet side of life? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Childproof’s first birthday approaches, Gwenna and Tori are thrilled to bring you a special mailbag episode. Listeners have submitted questions about managing the never ending energy of a two year old to supporting their kids through divorce, and even teaching boundaries with preteens. Plus, they’re back again with a game of Dry Side or Wet Side, brought to you by Splash Refresher. Do you look at the dry side or wet side of life? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s your biggest pet peeve? This week, Gwenna and Tori are here to rant. The duo vents about everyday parental frustrations and pet peeves from Kidz Bop to Frozen karaoke, and even self-flushing toilets. What do all of these have in common? The robot revolution. To close out, they are back with another round of Dry Side or Wet Side, brought to you by Splash Refresher. Do you look at the dry side or wet side of a problem? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The simple solution is… you should listen to this episode. This week, Tori and Gwenna discuss the challenges of parenting and finding those simple solutions. They introduce us to the lesson of Occam’s razor, which states that the simplest answer is often the best solution. Drawing from personal experiences, they share their own stories from navigating online information overload, teaching children the art of drinking from a glass, and managing one’s emotions. With each story, they hammer home how the best results always came from the simplest solutions. To close out, Gwenna challenges Tori to a game of Dry Side or Wet Side, brought to you by Splash Refresher. Do you look at the dry side, or wet side of a problem? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sharing is caring... well, sometimes. This week, Tori returns, and the dynamic duo dives into the topic of sharing. They explore the nuances of sharing, whether it's about food, toys, or even navigating the grocery store aisles. With tips, tricks, and sayings, they reflect on their experiences in guiding their children through interactions with others. As they say, "We look with our eyes, not with our hands," imparting a valuable lesson on the importance of respecting boundaries and fostering cooperation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Gwenna is joined by Dr. Sujay Kansagra, pediatric neurologist and director of the pediatric neurology sleep medicine program at Duke Health. The duo dives into the intricacies of sleep training, discovering its true meaning, and its unique application within each family dynamic. They also explore the complexities of sleep cycles, circadian rhythms, and the surprising impact a mere 5-minute nap can have. Wrapping up, they offer insights into effectively communicating with your pediatrician when your child is experiencing sleep difficulties. Get Dr. Kansagra's Book: https://shorturl.at/crJP8 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's let go, together. This week, Gwenna and Tori dive into the art of lowering expectations, both for themselves and their children. They kick off their discussion with school, acknowledging the struggle surrounding grades as a significant aspect of expectations. While recognizing that grades aren't the sole measure of a child's worth, they can give parents a peek into a kids holistic wellbeing. Transitioning into extracurricular activities, they share their experiences of striving to provide their children with diverse opportunities while also learning the importance of establishing healthy boundaries. Amidst the whirlwind of daily life, they discovered the necessity of showing themselves grace, particularly during meal times, recognizing that ensuring their children are nourished and content is what's important. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Gwenna and Tori find themselves halfway through spring break and already found themselves in the pit of the avocado (IYKYK). They share stories about supporting their children in preparing for emergencies, fostering their interests, and handling anger. This episode is just as jam-packed as your "week off," so be sure to tune in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Okay, I'm going to need some space. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori delve into the topic of spaces within their homes. From shared living areas to designated play zones, the duo discusses the dynamics of family spaces. They explore the intricacies chore systems with their children, highlighting tips and tricks of finding organizational methods that suit each child's temperament. Wrapping up, they reflect on the importance of aesthetics in their homes, sharing insights into the specific aesthetic styles they resonate with and how they manage to maintain them as well as their kids's. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Gwenna and Tori are thrilled to welcome Megan McNamee, one of the minds behind the Instagram account @feedinglittles. Recognizing the profound impact that Megan's platform has had on their own approaches to navigating the realm of food with their children, they eagerly invite her to delve deeper into the topic. The discussion starts with the myth surrounding "picky eaters" and the importance of respecting children's individual preferences. From there, the trio delves into practical strategies and tools aimed at enriching children's dining experiences, while also addressing the perennial question of when to introduce dessert into the equation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode is a special dedication to our very own TikTok sensation, Gwenna. Her recently released book, "Momma Cusses: A Field Guide to Responsive Parenting & Trying Not to Be the Reason Your Kid Needs Therapy," is now available, and we're thrilled to get a glimpse behind the curtain. Tori asks Gwenna to delve into her journey, starting from the moment she realized her passion for writing, to her audience, and the significant role her family played in the writing process. Order Gwenna's Book: https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/momma-cusses/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congratulations, you've reached your podcast listening milestone. In this episode, Gwenna and Tori dive into the long list of developmental milestones that your kids are expected to meet. They offer reassurance to listeners, acknowledging the immense pressure felt by parents and emphasizing that you don't need to feel guilty if your children deviate from the list. However, they recount their own encounters with detecting early signs of developmental delays, shedding light on potential implications. CDC’s Developmental Milestones: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't cry, we're back with another episode! This week, Gwenna and Tori chat a little more about how to help your kids, help you, help them identify their emotions. They start off detailing the unique paths they take to get to the same result, avoiding a meltdown. They share how they introduce their kids to disappointment, stop a tantrums once they start, and how to avoid them in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Valentine's Day! On this episode, Gwenna and Tori air out their grievances about celebrating the day of love. They share what their favorite Valentine's gifts are and which ones get shuffled around the house for a couples days (or months). Then, they introduce a new segment highlighting a listener email who asks how to handle a pre-teen who "doesn't know". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grab your favorite coffee, tea, or Four Loko and get ready to find yourself again. This week, Gwenna and Tori found inspiration from a fellow mom friend who has reached that stage in parenthood where she can carve out time for herself. They reflect on their own journeys, discussing the challenges of losing one's identity after having a baby and the newfound self-discoveries that have emerged in the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gather 'round, children (and parents), it's story time! In this week's episode, Gwenna and Tori share their favorite parenting stories. From sleeve beans, tree floofs, and giant Elsa's they reflect on the lessons learned by both themselves and their kids. We want to hear from you! Head to [email protected] to share stories of your own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back for seconds already? Don’t worry, Gwenna and Tori have plenty of leftovers from last week. They dive into their perspectives on addressing the topic of body image with their children (as well as with themselves) and explore its connection to diet. Then, they offer valuable tips, tricks, and resources that you can employ to guide your children in navigating a world centered around body awareness. Referenced Accounts: @feedinglittles @andydoeshealthy @kids.nutritionist @kids.eat.in.color Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Gwenna and Tori have their plates full with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In this episode, the duo chats all about their kids' preferred palate. From tacos de lengua to strictly dino nuggets, they share how they’ve adjusted to their kids' ever-evolving tastes and how they encourage them to try new foods. The short answer is bribery. Yes you may be excused, but make sure to come back next week for the second course of this conversation. Preorder Momma Cusses : https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/momma-cusses/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Knock knock. Who’s there? It’s Gwenna and Tori ready to kick off the New Year. In this episode, they delve into the topic of children’s privacy. Is it a right or a privilege? They cover when introduce the concept of privacy to their kids, how they maintain it, and how if differs from kid to kid. Preorder Momma Cusses : https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/momma-cusses/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter the weather, we’re in it together. This week, Gwenna and Tori are preparing their children (and themselves) for inclement weather conditions. They share stories and offer valuable tips and tricks to guide you in navigating through a snowy day or a potential power outage with your kids. Emergency Radio: https://amzn.to/3uZIUKY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is your New Year's resolution? Ours is to not make resolutions. In the final episode of 2023, Gwenna and Tori chat about their post-Christmas relaxation and New Year celebrations. Then, they delve into a reflection on the goals they set for 2023 and explore the intricacies of crafting new aspirations for the upcoming year, 2024. 2024 Vision Board - https://www.mommacusses.com/services-1  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices