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Connected Parenting — Kids & Family
Connected Parenting

Connected Parenting shares techniques that therapists use to help parents soothe their child as well as enhance the parent-child bond and is based on the understanding that correcting and guiding behavior works best when it is preceded by and linked to empathy. At the heart of this parenting model is the CALM Technique which helps parents accurately attune to children’s affect and experience. These empathic interactions release reward chemicals in the brain that stimulate positive emotions and increase order and balance in the nervous system. Reward chemicals, including natural opiates, endorphins, and a powerful hormone called oxytocin, reduce and inhibit stress hormones and bathe the brain in positive emotions that ripple through every cell in the body. The benefits of empathy and compassion have a strong base in science that cannot be underestimated. Simply put, it is brain food, the emotional nutrition all of us need, perhaps our children most of all.
Although many parenting techniques stress the importance of empathy, Connected Parenting will show you how to use it skillfully to repair frayed bonds, deescalate tantrums, contain and correct difficult behaviors and help your child to become more confident and emotionally resilient. We use a collaborative and supportive coaching model and provide inspirational, easy-to-understand techniques grounded in neuroscience and attachment. In the end, your child will be more compliant, more relaxed, and – most importantly – happier. Connected Parenting will bring out the best in you and your child.

Copyright: © Copyright 2024 Connected Parenting

Latest Episodes:

Red Light Green Light Technique | CP214 Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Connected Parenting, we dive into a powerful visual and verbal tool that helps kids regulate their behavior and emotions called the "Stoplight Technique" (also known as Red Light, Green Light).

As parents, one of our greatest challenges is guiding our kids through big feelings and impulsive behavior without losing our own cool. That’s where this simple yet effective method comes in.

Listen in to hear me explain how the stoplight framework teaches children cause and effect, emotional regulation, and personal accountability, all in a way that’s age-appropriate and easy to apply at home or in the classroom.

It gives them a clear visual anchor to understand what’s expected, and when things need to pause or shift.

You’ll also learn how to modify the strategy for teenagers (because let’s be honest, a red light chart on the fridge might not go over so well at 15), and why this tool can be just as helpful for you as the parent.

Whether your child struggles with emotional outbursts, transitions, or impulsive behavior, this episode offers a compassionate, practical way to build emotional intelligence together.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Red Light, Green Light Technique Overview (00:00)
Explanation of Red Light, Green Light Behaviors (01:05)
Handling Yellow Light Behaviors (03:01)
Applying the Technique to Teenagers (06:57)
Using the Technique for Consistency and Flexibility (11:36)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in the US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

[REPLAY] Summertime Connection | CP213 Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

As the busy school year winds down, summer opens the door to something we often miss, space to slow down, breathe, and truly reconnect with our kids.

In this heartfelt replay, we say goodbye to the hectic pace and explore simple, intentional ways to make this summer feel calm, connected, and full of joy for the whole family.

Remember; summer doesn’t need to be packed to be powerful, it just needs presence.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Summer as a Time for Connection and Refreshment (00:00)
The Calm Technique and Its Benefits (02:07)
Practical Application of the Calm Technique (03:40)
Structuring Summer Days for Children (07:27)
Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Summer (09:38)
Divide and Conquer Strategy for Family Outings (11:38)
Maintaining Structure During Vacations (13:21)
Bringing Back the Magic of Family Time (14:11)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in the US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

ADHD Waiting Mode | CP212 Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

You may have a child who freezes up for hours before a dentist appointment or refuses to start anything all day because they're waiting for a playdate or appointment later on. It’s not laziness or defiance, it’s their ADHD brain getting stuck in “waiting mode.”

Today we unpack what ADHD waiting mode is, why it happens, and how it connects to hyperfixation, time blindness, and emotional regulation. Listen in to hear me explain why even bright, capable kids with ADHD often struggle to shift gears, stay organized, or follow through, especially when there's a delay between now and the task or reward.

Whether you’re parenting a “neuro-spicy” child or navigating your own ADHD challenges, this episode offers empathy, understanding, and a powerful toolkit to help you move forward with compassion and connection.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Understanding ADHD and Its Impact on Daily Life (00:00)
Hyperfocus and Time Blindness in ADHD (01:27)
ADHD Waiting Mode and Its Effects (11:13)
Strategies for Managing ADHD Waiting Mode (11:29)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

Handling Meltdowns & Teen Pushback: Your Parenting Q&A | CP211 Jun 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Parenting Podcast, we're diving into two real-life listener questions as part of our Q&A series.

First, we explore how to support an eight-year-old who has emotional outbursts in stores when they’re told “no.” Why do these meltdowns happen, and how can we respond in ways that actually build emotional regulation instead of making things worse?

Then we shift gears to talk about teens, specifically, what to do when your teenager refuses to go on family weekends or trips. We unpack the reasons behind this resistance, and how to balance empathy with boundaries while still keeping the family connection strong.

These two scenarios may seem different, but at their core, both are about emotional regulation, autonomy, and how we show up as calm, connected leaders for our kids, even when things get heated or hard.

Tune in to hear strategies, mindset shifts, and scripts you can start using right away to manage these tough parenting moments with more confidence and less stress.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Addressing Tantrums in Young Children (15:35)
Strategies for Managing Tantrums (15:47)
Handling Teenage Refusals to Go Away with the Family (16:00)
Maintaining Consistency and Confidence (16:12)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

Building Independence | CP210 May 30, 2025

Show notes

The balance between guidance and freedom helps children develop emotional strength, problem-solving skills, and a deeper sense of self.

While today’s kids have endless access to information, what many lack is the freedom to explore, try, fail, and figure things out on their own.

Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, this episode will give you practical and compassionate guidance on building independence in ways that feel safe and supportive for both of you.

Tune in and rediscover the magic of letting go just enough to help your child grow.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Building Independence in Children (00:00)
Challenges of Modern Parenting (01:55)
Encouraging Age-Appropriate Responsibilities (05:08)
Age-Appropriate Privileges and Problem-Solving (08:57)
Balancing Protection and Independence (13:05)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

Nothing to Wear: A Connected Approach to Clothing Battles | CP209 May 23, 2025

Show notes

In this week’s episode of Connected Parenting, we’re diving into one of the most common and exhausting parenting struggles—clothing battles, especially with younger girls.

You know the drill: “There’s nothing to wear!” “I hate that shirt!” “Not those pants!”and it all happens before you’ve even had your coffee.

Today we are exploring the emotional undercurrents behind these morning meltdowns, looking closer at why seemingly simple decisions like getting dressed can turn into full-blown power struggles, and most importantly, how you can shift the energy and reclaim calm in your mornings.

If getting dressed feels like a daily disaster, this episode will help you bring more empathy, structure, and peace to your morning routine.

Spoiler: It’s not about the outfit—it’s about connection.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Clothing Battles in Young Girls (00:00)
Reasons Behind Clothing Battles (01:20)
Strategies to Prevent Clothing Battles (02:46)
Practical Tips for Managing Clothing Battles (05:59)
Addressing Anxiety and Control Issues (08:05)
Handling Extreme Cases and School Anxiety (09:16)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

My Baby Is Growing Up | CP208 May 16, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back, connected parents! In this heartfelt episode of Connected Parenting, we’re diving into one of the most emotionally challenging moments many parents face; the shift that happens when your child starts to pull away and step into the world of adolescence.

I take a close look at this transition, especially between mothers and daughters, when the once chatty, affectionate little girl becomes more withdrawn, independent, and focused on her peers. For many parents, this change feels like a form of grief—there’s a sadness, a sense of being left behind, and a deep questioning of where they now fit in their child’s life.

Full of empathy and grounded in practical advice, this episode offers strategies to stay close, even as the relationship begins to change. Whether you're in the thick of it or seeing the early signs, today's episode will help you navigate this season of change with compassion and clarity.

Remember just because it feels different doesn’t mean you’re losing your child. You’re simply being invited to show up for them in a new way.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Understanding the Transition to Teenagehood (00:00)
Biological and Cultural Context of Adolescence (02:21)
Emotional Impact on Parents and Teenagers (06:23)
Navigating Social Interactions and Connections (07:20)
Effective Communication and Connection Techniques (15:40)
Managing Expectations and Emotional Resilience (15:56)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

Why They Can’t Hurry Up (Time Blindness in Kids and What to Do About It) | CP207 May 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Connected Parenting, we’re tackling one of the most frustrating challenges for parents: time blindness. You know the scene; your child is moving at a snail’s pace, one leg in their pants, completely unaware of the ticking clock while you’re shouting, “Let’s go!”

Time blindness is a very real neurological issue for many kids and teens, especially those who are highly sensitive, neurodivergent, or struggle with executive functioning. They don’t mean to frustrate you—they’re just wired differently when it comes to sensing and managing time.

If mornings, transitions, and deadlines feel like constant battles, this episode will help you understand the root cause—and guide you toward more peaceful, productive days.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Understanding Time Blindness in Children (00:00)
The Role of the Frontal Lobe in Time Management (02:39)
Consequences of Time Blindness (08:53)
Strategies for Managing Time Blindness (11:38)
Practical Tips for Improving Time Management (17:29)
Seeking Professional Help (20:09)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

Great At School & Horrible At Home | CP206 Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Connected Parenting Podcast, we’re diving into a scenario that leaves so many parents scratching their heads — the child who’s perfect at school but melts down at home.

You know the story: your child is polite, focused, and adored by teachers, but the second they walk through your front door, it’s like a switch flips. Suddenly, you're dealing with tantrums, defiance, or emotional outbursts and you're left wondering, why am I getting the worst while everyone else gets the best?

If you’ve ever felt like your child gives their best to the world and their worst to you—this conversation will offer clarity, comfort, and actionable tools so you can navigate this tricky dynamic with confidence and connection.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Kids Who Excel at School but Misbehave at Home (00:00)
Understanding the Behavior of "Gladiator Kids" (02:31)
Sensitivity and Emotional Regulation in Children (04:14)
Anxiety and Reactive Behavior in Children (06:58)
Strategies for Managing Behavior at Home (10:04)
Connecting Before Correcting and Bonding with Children (14:46)
The Role of Consistency and Predictability in Parenting (17:17)
Resources and Support for Parents (17:50)
The Importance of Understanding Neuro Spicy Kids (18:23)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

Spring Fever | CP205 Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

Seasonal transitions; particularly spring can deeply affect highly sensitive or as I like to call them "neuro-spicy" kids.

While spring brings feelings of renewal and excitement for many, the change in routine, environment, and even the weather can be incredibly dysregulating for children with big feelings. These transitions can create emotional turbulence, behavioral flare-ups, and increased anxiety if not handled with care.

Whether it’s adjusting to daylight saving time, the end of the school year, or just shifting from winter into warmer days, this episode will help you support your child through it all with empathy, structure, and the CALM Connected Parenting method of connection.

Tune in now for practical tips and support in helping things run as smoothly as possible.

Jennifer's Takeaways:

Spring Transitions and Highly Sensitive Kids (00:00)
The Impact of State Changes on the Brain (02:08)
Seasonal Changes and Behavioral Issues (04:10)
Strategies for Managing Spring Transitions (06:44)
Addressing Sleep and Clothing Issues (10:02)
Maintaining a Positive Outlook (12:15)

Meet Jennifer Kolari

Jennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today’s Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.

Kolari’s powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children’s emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.

Jennifer’s wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.

Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

One of the nation’s leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You’re Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).

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