Raising Parents Archives - Insights

Simone Holligan: Beyond Stigma — Postpartum Health For Diverse Bodies | Raising Parents #70

Ashlesha Chaudhary — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 10:39:39 +0000

Body image is more than skin deep, especially during and after pregnancy. In a world that celebrates “bouncing back,” many expectant and new parents are pressured to maintain unrealistic ideals. But what happens when the mirror reflects something entirely different than what society expects? This episode invites listeners to rethink postpartum health through a lens of self-compassion, cultural relevance, and truth.

Meet Simone Holligan

Simone Holligan is a Research Associate at the Work-Learn Institute at the University of Waterloo. With a PhD in Applied Human Nutrition and past roles at SickKids Hospital and the Public Health Agency of Canada, she’s committed to translating research into relatable insights. Her work focuses on the intersection of health, body image, and emotional well-being, particularly for parents navigating major life transitions.

About the episode

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Simone dives deep into how body image evolves through pregnancy and postpartum life. She explains how physiological weight changes are not just normal, but necessary. By outlining how fat serves as a vital organ in pregnancy and how hormonal shifts support recovery, Simone reframes how parents can view their changing bodies with understanding, not judgment.

Simone also explores the mental and emotional toll that body image struggles can take. From societal standards of desirability to the silence around postpartum body dysmorphia, she emphasizes the importance of informed support from doulas, family, and culturally sensitive practitioners. Her insight offers a refreshing reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to postpartum health.

Throughout the episode, listeners are reminded that health isn’t just physical, it’s emotional, cultural, and deeply personal. Simone’s emphasis on community care, nutrition accessibility, and diverse family experiences creates a broader narrative for what it means to parent in today’s world.

In conclusion

Postpartum isn’t about “bouncing back.” It’s about growing into something new. Simone Holligan offers more than nutrition advice; she brings perspective, compassion, and clarity to one of life’s most vulnerable transitions. Her message encourages every parent to listen to their body, honor their journey, and build support systems that reflect who they are and where they come from. Because when parents feel seen, they’re empowered to raise resilient children with confidence and care.

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J.Stuart Ablon, Ph.D: Rethinking Discipline — Better Ways Than Punishment | Raising Parents #69

Putri Yuni — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 09:17:30 +0000

In this episode, Dr. J.Stuart Ablon discusses the philosophy of rethinking discipline in parenting and education. He advocates for a shift away from punitive measures and towards building essential skills in children that promote better behavior and emotional intelligence.

Meet J.Stuart Ablon, Ph.D

Dr. J. Stuart Ablon is an award-winning psychologist and Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School. In addition, he is the Founder and Director of Think: Kids at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he focuses on innovative approaches to understanding and addressing challenging behavior.

Furthermore, Dr. J. Stuart is recognized as a leading expert in Collaborative Problem Solving and has authored three books, including Changeable, which has been endorsed by thought leaders such as Malcolm Gladwell and Adam Grant.

Moreover, he is a prominent keynote speaker at major conferences, including SXSW and TEDx, where he shares insights on behavioral challenges across various settings—from homes to classrooms to corporate environments.

About the episode

Dr. J. Stuart opens the conversation by addressing the common belief that punishment is an effective disciplinary tool. However, drawing from his extensive experience, he argues that many children struggle not because they lack effort or will, but rather because they simply have not yet developed the necessary skills to manage their behavior.

Moreover, this insight is supported by decades of research in neuroscience, which indicates that behavioral issues often stem from skill deficits rather than motivational problems.

Building on this idea, Dr. J. Stuart emphasizes the need for children to develop critical skills such as flexibility, frustration tolerance, and effective problem-solving. Instead of relying on punitive measures, he advocates for skill-building strategies that empower children to regulate their emotions and behaviors.

In addition, the episode explores the emotional consequences of punishment, particularly its impact on children’s self-esteem and their perceptions of authority. Dr. J. Stuart explains that frequent punishment may cause children to internalize negative labels, which can damage both their self-image and their relationships with adults.

Consequently, punitive methods often result in resentment and disengagement rather than promoting true accountability.

Another important theme in the discussion is how children understand and respond to authority figures. Dr. J. Stuart highlights the importance of redefining authority as a source of guidance and understanding, rather than power and control.

To support this shift, he encourages parents and educators to model empathetic behavior and involve children in collaborative problem-solving discussions.

Here are some practical strategies for parents to implement positive discipline techniques, based on Dr. J. Stuart Ablon’s insights:

First, set clear expectations: Clearly communicate rules and expectations to your child, ensuring they understand what behaviors are appropriate in various contexts.
Next, practice active listening: Listen to your child’s perspective without interrupting, showing empathy and validating their emotions.
Then, try collaborative problem solving: When challenges arise, invite your child to work with you in finding solutions. This strengthens their sense of responsibility and critical thinking.
Additionally, emphasize effort over outcome: Praise your child’s efforts, not just their results, to foster a growth mindset and build resilience.
Moreover, model appropriate behavior: Demonstrate how to handle frustration and setbacks constructively, setting a positive example.
Finally, use natural consequences: When safe, let your child experience the natural results of their actions, followed by a supportive discussion to reinforce the learning experience.

In conclusion

This episode is not just about rethinking discipline; it’s an inspiring call for parents and educators to embrace a more compassionate and skill-focused approach to child-rearing. Dr. J. Stuart Ablon’s insights are a reminder that equipping children with the right tools can lead to healthier behaviors and stronger relationships.

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Jenny Grant Rankin, Ph.D.: Optimising Parent — Teacher Communication | Raising Parents #68

Nia Septiani — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 21:06:57 +0000

Parents and teachers often share the same goal: helping children grow into capable, confident individuals. But when communication breaks down or expectations clash, that shared mission can start to feel overwhelming. In this episode, Jenny explores how better parent-teacher communication—grounded in empathy, flexibility, and real collaboration—can make a lasting difference in both the classroom and at home.

Meet Jenny Grant Rankin, Ph.D.

Jenny Grant Rankin, Ph.D., is a renowned Fulbright Specialist for the U.S. Department of State with a prolific background in education, research, and public speaking. She has lectured at some of the world’s top universities, including the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and Columbia University, and has even trained U.S. federal agents.

Holding two doctorates—a Ph.D. in Education and an L.H.D.— Jenny brings a deep understanding of both the academic and practical sides of education. Her professional journey spans roles as a K–12 educator, school and district administrator, higher education leader, and chief education and research officer of a successful edtech company.

In addition to authoring 14 influential books and nearly 200 articles, Jenny is a trusted voice in major media outlets such as the BBC, NPR, The New York Times, and Psychology Today. She has spoken at 93 venues across 10 countries, including global stages like TEDxTUM and major conferences like Comic-Con.

Her work blends rigorous research with a passion for making complex ideas accessible, especially through platforms like Mensa, where she’s played a key role in promoting diversity and gifted education.

About the episode

In this episode, Jenny and Dina dives deep into the importance of balance between raising children at home and educating them at school. One of the biggest takeaways for you as a parent or educator is that success doesn’t come from controlling every detail of a child’s life.

Instead, when you support your child’s independence and let them explore what truly interests them, learning becomes more meaningful. Parent-teacher communication plays a huge role here—when both sides listen and stay open, kids benefit from a more personalized and effective learning journey.

Another focus in the conversation is how important flexibility and empathy are in building trust between families and schools. Your daily challenges—whether they’re financial, time-related, or emotional—shouldn’t block your ability to be involved in your child’s education.

That’s why strong parent-teacher communication is essential. Key ways this can be supported include:

Sending clear, jargon-free messages from schools
Offering flexible meeting times
Showing understanding for families with limited time or resources

Jenny also highlights how some teachers may not fully understand the weight of parenting, especially if they haven’t experienced it themselves. That’s not a flaw—it’s an opportunity for growth. You’ll hear how mentorship and training can help educators gain more empathy and patience.

This directly improves parent-teacher communication by encouraging educators to:

Simplify their communication
Avoid assumptions about a parent’s availability or priorities
Focus on collaboration instead of judgment

Another powerful moment in this episode explores the value of diverse family voices in schools. You’ll see how your ideas, culture, and experiences can make school events more meaningful and relevant. When schools are open to input and flexible in their planning, everyone benefits. This means:

Moving away from “one-size-fits-all” school events
Encouraging fresh ideas from different cultures and family structures
Creating space for parents to co-lead or co-create with educators

With stronger parent-teacher communication, families are more likely to get involved and stay involved.

Technology in education also gets a spotlight, especially how confusing it can be for both parents and teachers. If you’ve ever felt lost with online tools or school apps, you’re not alone. Here, Jenny reminds you that successful tech use starts with solid parent-teacher communication.

You’ll hear suggestions like:

Providing simple, step-by-step guides for tech tools
Offering ongoing support with clear contact info
Sending regular reminders to keep everyone informed

When you feel supported instead of overwhelmed, you’re more likely to use tools that keep you engaged in your child’s education.

By the end of the episode, one message is crystal clear: good education is a team effort. You don’t need to do it all alone—and neither do teachers.

Through consistent, honest, and flexible parent-teacher communication, everyone involved can better support the child. Whether it’s organizing a school event, managing a behavior concern, or navigating a new app, your voice matters, your time is valuable, and your presence makes a lasting impact.

In conclusion

Clear and thoughtful parent-teacher communication isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a game changer. When educators understand the realities of parenting, and parents feel invited to share their voices, a strong, supportive partnership forms. This kind of connection not only improves school experiences but also empowers children to thrive with confidence and care.

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Elaine Shpungin, Ph.D: Enhancing Parent — Teacher Communication with Commlink | Raising Parents #67

Nadine Aref — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 06:08:38 +0000

Get ready to learn about the importance of solid parent-teacher relationships in supporting a child’s academic journey. Explore how to build strong, effective partnerships between parents and teachers with expert guest Dr. Elaine Shpungin. Tune in to learn empowering methods to play an active role in children’s education.

Meet Elaine Shpungin, Ph.D

Dr. Elaine Shpungin, originally from the former USSR, moved to the U.S. in her childhood and grew up in Brooklyn. She earned a Ph.D. in Clinical-Community Psychology from Michigan State University. She went on to direct the Psychological Services Center at the University of Illinois for 12 years and launched her own consulting practice in 2016.

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Elaine integrates psychology, communication, conflict resolution, restorative justice, and leadership into her work through writing, speaking, and coaching. She has received recognition, such as the University of Illinois Academic Professional Award, and even hiked out of the Grand Canyon with a 35-pound pack for her 50th birthday. Her insights are also shaped by 25 years of marriage and co-parenting — experiences that have informed her deep interest in conflict and communication.

About the episode

In this episode of Raising Parents, Dr. Elaine Shpungin describes parenting as a series of shifting roles, including cheerleading, supporting, advocating, guiding, and coaching, all while knowing when to let go. These roles are aspirational and involve a tension between guiding and allowing independence. She emphasizes that children are humans with less life experience, so maintaining dignity in interactions is crucial, though not always achievable.

Parenting is paradoxical, filled with intense emotions such as fear, joy, terror, pride, and embarrassment. At the same time, parents need to provide steadiness for their children, who are also experiencing emotional ups and downs. Experimenting with humor, mutual support, and self-compassion can help parents stay centered and acknowledge they are doing their best without a perfect manual for their specific child.

Dr. Elaine advises parents transitioning into their role to remember their own humanity. While children will draw immense love and care, parents and co-parents should nurture their relationships. Self-care is essential, not just to be a better parent, but because individuals deserve time, love, passion projects, and support as people with their own light to shine.

In conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Elaine suggests that effective parenting involves navigating complex roles, managing intense emotions, maintaining personal well-being, fostering open communication, and building trust with both children and educators. However, it also necessitates remembering to prioritize self-care and personal relationships.

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Dona Matthews: Mindful Mastery – Going Beyond Intelligence | Raising Parents #66

Ashlesha Chaudhary — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:28:03 +0000

Parenting isn’t just about raising smart kids;it’s about raising whole humans. In this episode, listeners explore how mindful parenting practices can strengthen a child’s emotional and social growth just as much as cognitive development.

Meet Dona Matthews

Dona Matthews is a seasoned developmental psychologist with decades of experience working with families, educators, and institutions. Her work has spanned private practice, academic leadership, and literary contributions to gifted education and child development.

She has served as the Executive Director of the Millennium Dialogue for Early Child Development at the University of Toronto and as the founding director of the Hunter College Center for Gifted Education and Development in New York.

Dona has co-authored and edited numerous books including Being Smart about Gifted Learning, Beyond Intelligence, and her latest work, Imperfect Parenting: How to Build a Relationship with Your Child to Weather Any Storm. Through her work, she continues to inspire a shift toward relationship-based parenting that values empathy, patience, and holistic development.

About the episode

This episode centers around the vital role of social intelligence in a child’s development. Dona defines social intelligence as the ability to form meaningful relationships, communicate effectively, and navigate social environments with empathy and self-awareness. She unpacks the components of this intelligence, from patience and listening to conflict resolution and cooperation.

Dona challenges traditional perceptions of giftedness, emphasizing that high academic performance doesn’t necessarily translate into emotional intelligence. Each child, she explains, has a unique developmental path.

She offers insightful advice on how parents can gently support social growth without overpraising or pushing too hard—especially when dealing with socially anxious or introverted children.

Listeners are encouraged to nurture these skills through play, both structured and spontaneous, and to recognize the value of each child’s individuality. Dona shares heartfelt stories, personal experiences with her grandchildren, and practical strategies for promoting healthy emotional development.

She also speaks on the importance of praise rooted in effort and curiosity rather than innate traits like intelligence or beauty. According to her, this helps children develop a growth mindset and self-worth that isn’t reliant on external validation.

In conclusion

Dona Matthews offers an inspiring and research-backed perspective on parenting that extends beyond academics. Her insights make a compelling case for fostering social intelligence through empathy, observation, and responsive parenting.

Whether you’re a new parent or guiding teens through emotional growth, this episode is a reminder that relationships are the foundation for raising resilient, capable kids.

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Lucy McGoron, Ph.D: Preschool Tech – Balancing Screens and Skills | Raising Parents #65

Trisha Anjanette — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 11:35:59 +0000

In today’s world, technology is an unavoidable part of daily lives – even for the youngest members of society. Parents often grapple with questions about how much technology is appropriate for children and how to balance screen time with other important developmental activities.

Meet Lucy McGoron, Ph.D

Lucy McGoron has a Ph.D. in applied developmental psychology and primarily focuses on creating and evaluating programs for parents, particularly parents of children (ages 2-5). She is committed to finding practical ways to connect parents with research-based parenting strategies to promote positive development for young children and reduce parenting stress.

Dr. Lucy is also interested in understanding variations in parenting practices, particularly regarding adversity and parents’ mental health and well-being. Her work is informed by her experiences in child welfare, early childhood education, mental health services, and developmental psychopathology research. Using technology to deliver parenting content is a primary focus of her work program.

About the episode

Dr. Lucy emphasizes that we can’t simply label technology use for young children as good or bad. There’s significant variation in how technology can impact child development, depending on factors like:

Content quality
Parent involvement
Amount of use
Child’s age and developmental stage

For example, while excessive screen time can potentially have adverse effects, moderate and mindful use of high-quality digital content can, in fact, provide educational benefits—especially when balanced with other activities.

One common challenge many parents face is getting children to stop using devices when it’s time to switch to other tasks. As a result, battles over turning off the TV or putting down the tablet can create stress for the whole family.

Moreover, parents often worry about keeping up with fast-changing technology that their “digital native” children seem to master effortlessly. Meanwhile, adults may face a significant learning curve when trying to understand new apps, devices, and trends that kids quickly adopt.

When it comes to evaluating children’s technology use, the quality and type of content they engage with matter significantly. In this context, Dr. Lucy suggests that well-designed educational TV programs may actually be one of the better forms of screen time for young children. Many of these shows are created by child development experts and go through strict review processes.

In contrast, online videos and social media content tend to be more unpredictable in quality and age-appropriateness. Therefore, parents should be especially cautious with platforms that include autoplay features, as children can quickly be exposed to inappropriate content.

Rather than banning technology altogether, Dr. Lucy recommends focusing on helping children enjoy full, balanced days that include:

Outdoor play
Reading books
Imaginative play with toys
Social interactions with peers and family
Physical activity
Creative pursuits like art and music

Technology can be part of this balanced mix of activities. Problems arise when screen time begins to dominate a child’s day at the expense of other meaningful developmental experiences.

Dr. Lucy highlighted Lexia, an adaptive reading program for preschool through middle school, as an example of well-designed educational technology. However, there are many quality options available across different subject areas.

While educational apps and e-books can support early literacy, it’s vital to ensure children also have access to physical books. Dr. Lucy is passionate about initiatives like Little Free Libraries that help get books into the hands of children from all backgrounds.

Exposure to diverse books with characters that reflect various cultures and experiences is significant for helping all children develop a love of reading.

In conclusion

Parents can help children develop digital literacy skills by taking a thoughtful, balanced approach while prioritizing hands-on play, social interaction, and other crucial developmental experiences. The goal is to raise kids who can confidently navigate our tech-centric world while maintaining rich, entire lives beyond their screens.

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Fathali M. Moghaddam, Ph.D: Parenting Democracy – Nurturing Young Activists | Raising Parents #64

Aisyah Nisa — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 07:16:53 +0000

This episode tackles societal polarization and the erosion of critical thinking by reimagining parenting as a catalyst for democratic values. You’ll learn how to nurture children’s ability to question authority, engage empathetically with diverse viewpoints, and balance personal rights with civic responsibility in an increasingly divided world.

Meet Fathali M. Moghaddam, Ph.D.

Fathali M. Moghaddam is a Professor of Psychology at Georgetown University and the Editor of the Cambridge University Press Progressive Psychology book series. A leading expert in political psychology, his research explores the psychological foundations of democracy, radicalization, and social change.

His work examines how political systems shape human behavior and how individuals and groups respond to societal threats. Dr. Fathali has authored numerous influential books, including Mutual Radicalization: The Psychology of How Groups and Nations Drive Each Other to Extremes (2018), Threat to Democracy (2019), Shakespeare and the Experimental Psychologist (2021), How Psychologists Failed (2022), Political Plasticity (2023), and The Psychology of Revolution (2024). His scholarship bridges psychology, political science, and cultural studies, offering critical insights into the forces that drive conflict and transformation in societies worldwide.

About the episode

In this episode of Raising Parents, Fathali explains how parents can teach democratic values in their children by fostering open dialogue, encouraging critical thinking, and allowing them to question authority. Fathali illustrates the importance of political debate in the family by using his experiences throughout the Iranian revolution, stating that parenting has a direct influence on how children view authority and civic participation in the future.

Fathali also emphasizes how cultural influences, literature, and media influence children’s political and social awareness. Children understand empathy and the problems of society by viewing all these diversification of themselves and society through other families and external sources.

He argues that authoritarian parenting, which discourages questioning, may limit critical thinking, while authoritative parenting encourages open discussions that prepare children for active engagement in democratic societies. Additionally, the episode highlights how stress affects parenting decisions, emphasizing the need for effective communication to support children’s emotional and intellectual development.

Furthermore, Fathali underscores the importance of balancing personal rights with social responsibilities, a concept often overlooked in modern discourse. In an era of increasing polarization, he encourages parents to equip their children with the tools to navigate differing viewpoints with thoughtfulness and respect. By fostering an environment of open discussion and critical reflection, parents can help shape future generations that are politically aware, empathetic, and engaged in their communities.

In conclusion

Parenting with political intentionality fosters resilient, empathetic citizens. Open discussions at home—where children safely question authority and explore diverse perspectives—combat societal polarization. Authoritative parenting styles, coupled with exposure to literature and media that challenge biases, build critical thinkers who balance rights with responsibilities. As Fathali asserts, democracy isn’t just a system; it’s a daily practice rooted in humility, curiosity, and the courage to embrace “not knowing” together..

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Dr. Erica Steele: Trauma Tenders – Navigating Childhood Challenges | Raising Parents #63

Nadine Aref — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:23:51 +0000

Are you ready to explore the complex issues of childhood trauma and its long-term effects. Uncover practical coping mechanism for parents facing the challenges of parenting while managing depression. Tune in for actionable advice that will help you build resilience and create a nurturing environment for your children.

Meet Erica Steele, DNM, ND

Dr. Erica Steele is a distinguished naturopathic doctor and educator specializing in natural medicine and holistic health. She holds an AS in Psychology, BS degrees in Alternative Medicine and Natural Healthcare Sciences, and Doctorates in Natural Medicine and Naturopathy, along with an MPH in Public Health focused on Complementary & Alternative Medicine.

Currently pursuing an MBA and PhD, Dr. Erica is committed to advancing standardized education in natural healthcare and empowering future practitioners through her extensive knowledge and personal healing journey.

About the episode

In this episode of Raising Parents, Dr. Erica Steele discusses the complex challenges parents face when dealing with their trauma while raising children. Many parents are overwhelmed by their emotions, struggling to articulate their feelings or formulate questions due to being triggered, leading to confusion, guilt, and anxiety about their parenting. Despite these struggles, parents often express a deep desire to create a different experience for their children than what they endured.

Furthermore, Dr. Erica explores the challenges of addressing generational trauma and the fears that often accompany parenthood. She emphasizes the importance of transitioning from a place of fear to one of love and acceptance. Additionally, Dr. Erica underscores the need for conscious decision-making in parenting, noting that today’s children are more aware and assertive, which requires mindful approaches from parents.

Dr. Erica discusses the complexities of parenting, highlighting the impact of generational trauma on parent-child relationships. She reflects on the realization of a parent who unconsciously imposed their unresolved issues onto their children. She also acknowledges that while parents do their best given their circumstances, it is essential for both parents and children to recognize and forgive past mistakes.

In conclusion

This episode discusses the impact of depression and childhood trauma on parenting. It examines different parenting styles and highlights the importance of self-awareness for parents who are dealing with their past traumas or depression. By fostering self-awareness, parents can improve their parenting effectiveness and provide better emotional support for their children.

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Dr. Marcia Herrin: Bite Battles – Picky Eaters & Allergy Triumphs | Raising Parents #62

Nadine Aref — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 21:01:13 +0000

Are you a parent managing a picky eater? Explore the psychological and biological reasons behind picky eating in infants and toddlers and learn practical tips for fostering mindful eating habits. Tune in for tips on making mealtimes enjoyable!

Meet Dr. Marcia Herrin, Ed.D, M.P.H

Dr. Marcia Herrin, a nutrition education expert with a doctorate from Columbia University and a master’s from the University of California-Berkeley, founded Dartmouth College’s renowned eating disorder treatment program.

With over 35 years of experience treating eating disorders, she serves as a Clinical Professor at Dartmouth’s Medical School and trains Pediatric Residents at Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth.

Dr. Marcia has authored notable books on eating disorders and was named a fellow in the Academy of Eating Disorders in 2013, crediting much of her success to her personal recovery from these conditions.

About the episode

In this episode of Raising Parents, Marcia Herrin discusses the importance of promoting healthy eating in children, highlighting the challenges parents face with picky eaters and the psychological factors that contribute to these habits. She explains that picky eating often has genetic roots, with children being predisposed to reject new foods.

Dr. Marcia emphasizes that proper nutrition is vital for growth and brain development, warning that a lack of adequate nutrition can significantly impact a child’s overall development. She emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between diagnosed allergies and presumed food intolerances.

She also highlights the cultural trend of misidentifying food preferences as intolerances and explains the significance of dairy. Dr. Marcia explains the importance of parents guiding children’s food choices. While children should not be in charge of major decisions like meal planning, allowing them occasional autonomy helps balance their dietary needs.

Additionally Dr. Marcia also discusses the risks of being too restrictive, suggesting that children benefit from moderation and variety.

In conclusion

This episode emphasizes the role parents play in creating a nurturing environment that promotes a balanced and diverse diet. It provides practical guidance for parents managing picky eaters, particularly those with dietary restrictions, and shares valuable methods to encourage mindful eating while fostering a positive relationship with food. It also offers insights to make mealtime pleasurable for picky eaters.

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Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D: Leadership Seeds – Nurturing Political Insight | Raising Parents #61

Trisha Anjanette — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:04:29 +0000

Parents play a crucial role in shaping children’s understanding of the world around them, including their political attitudes and civic engagement. While it may seem premature to discuss politics with young children, research shows that the foundations of political awareness and leadership skills begin forming at an early age.

Meet Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D

Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D., is the Henry R. Kravis Professor of Leadership and Organizational Psychology and former Director of the Kravis Leadership Institute at Claremont McKenna College.

Professor Ronald is the author of over 150 books, book chapters, and research articles in leadership, assessment centers, organizational psychology, and social psychology. His most recent books are “Daily Leadership Development: 365 Steps to Becoming a Better Leader”, “Inclusive Leadership”, “What’s Wrong with Leadership”, “Leadership Studies”, “The Art of Followership and The Practice of Leadership”, “Applications of Nonverbal Behavior”, and “Transformational Leadership (2nd ed.)”.

Professor Ronald is on the Editorial Boards of The Leadership Quarterly, Leadership, Leadership Review, Group Dynamics, and the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior. He was also the originator of the Shoptalk column at the Los Angeles Times, a Q&A column dealing with workplace problems/issues.

About the episode

Many parents may not realize how significantly they influence their children’s political attitudes and leadership potential. Professor Riggio notes that parents often have political conversations with other adults without considering that their children are listening and absorbing these attitudes.

Moreover, even seemingly innocuous actions, like bringing a child to a political demonstration or having them wear a candidate’s T-shirt, can also shape a child’s early political leanings. While exposing children to civic engagement can certainly be positive, parents must be mindful of the messages they’re conveying.

However, rather than shielding children from political discussions entirely, the goal should instead be to foster critical thinking skills and expose them to multiple perspectives. For example, Professor Ronald recommends:

Having open discussions about current events and social issues
Encouraging children to question information and seek out reputable sources
Exposing children to different viewpoints in an age-appropriate way
Modeling respectful disagreement and debate

By taking this approach, parents can help children develop the ability to form their own informed opinions as they mature.

Additionally, it’s common for extended family members to have differing political views, which can lead to tense discussions or arguments. Professor Riggio offers advice for handling these situations:

Agree to disagree respectfully
Focus on understanding different perspectives rather than changing minds
Acknowledge generational differences in attitudes
Emphasize shared values and common ground
Model respectful disagreement for children

In conclusion

Cultivating political awareness in children is a complex but crucial task for parents. By fostering critical thinking, encouraging civic engagement, and modeling good citizenship, parents can help raise the next generation of informed and engaged citizens.

Remember that this is an ongoing process that evolves as children grow and develop. The goal is not to impose specific political beliefs but to equip children with the tools to form informed opinions and participate meaningfully in civic life.

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