Parent Like A Psychologist

Many parents tell me they’re waiting. Waiting for things to settle. Waiting for their child to grow out of it. Waiting for the “right time” to get support. In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we talk about what actually happens when a child’s emotional, behavioural, or developmental needs go unmet, and why waiting often makes things harder, not easier. When kids’ needs aren’t met, problems don’t stay the same One of the biggest misunderstandings parents have is thinking challenges will pause while they wait. They don’t. Unmet needs tend to snowball. A child who struggles with emotional regulation when they’re young might start with tantrums or meltdowns. Over time, those same unmet needs can show up as: Bigger emotional outbursts Anxiety or chronic stress Friendship difficulties Learning disruptions at school School refusal or avoidance What starts as one challenge often turns into two or three, not because parents have done anything wrong, but because the original need was never fully supported. Why early support matters Getting help early isn’t about panic or overreacting. It’s about prevention. When parents understand what their child needs and how to meet those needs, they can: Reduce stress and anxiety before it escalates Build emotional regulation skills earlier Protect learning, friendships, and confidence Lower their own stress and emotional load Early support often stops small struggles from becoming much bigger ones. Getting help is not a failure Many parents worry they’ll be judged, told they’re imagining things, or that they’re wasting a professional’s time. That simply isn’t true. Seeking support is thoughtful, protective, and a sign of a deeply engaged parent. It’s also about easing your load before things feel overwhelming. A question to reflect on Ask yourself: Have the challenges stayed the same, or changed over time? Are they showing up in new or more complex ways? Is waiting making things feel heavier for you? Challenges don’t pause while we wait. They usually reshape themselves. Ready to take the next step? If you’ve been hoping things will improve on their own, or you want to stop challenges from snowballing, this is your sign to reach out. My programs are available anytime, so you can start when you’re ready. You don’t have to do this alone. 👉 Listen to the episode now 👉 Explore my parent programs for practical, supportive guidance Early support is not dramatic. It’s calm, protective, and powerful. Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au

When your child seems to be “acting out just for attention,” it can feel frustrating, personal, and endless. In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, I’m joined by US psychologist Dr Larry Waldman to unpack what’s really going on underneath “attention-seeking” behaviour – and how parents can respond in a calmer, more effective way. Drawing on decades of work with children, teens, and families, Dr Waldman explains the behavioural approach to parenting in simple, practical terms. We talk about why kids quickly learn that certain behaviours get a big reaction, how a negative attention cycle develops at home, and why parental time and attention are the most powerful “currency” children have. Instead of focusing on punishment or “making kids learn a lesson,” we explore how to: Use your attention as a positive reward for the behaviour you want to see Break the pattern where kids only get noticed when things go wrong “Catch them while they’re good” and build more cooperation over time Balance ignoring minor misbehaviour with noticing and praising positive choices Apply these ideas not just with kids, but also at work and in relationships If you’ve ever heard yourself say, “They’re doing it just for attention,” this episode will help you see that attention differently – and use it in a way that strengthens behaviour and your relationship with your child. Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au

How attachment-first parenting helps kids thrive in the age of screens and AI In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, I sit down with Todd Sarner, parenting coach, marriage therapist, and author of The Calm and Connected Parent: An Attachment-First Guide to Raising Resilient Kids in the Age of Screens and AI. Todd’s work centres on helping parents lead with calm confidence, strong boundaries, and deep connection. His attachment-based approach is steady, warm, and refreshingly practical, especially for parents of neurodivergent kids. What we cover in this episode This conversation goes deep into the heart of modern parenting, and why connection is the foundation for everything else, including behaviour, emotional regulation, sibling dynamics, and screen time. We explore: Why “attachment-first parenting” matters more than ever in a world of screens, AI, and constant distraction The real reason many common parenting approaches fall flat (hello, pendulum swings between “gentle” and “tough love”) How kids signal their need for connection, even when it looks like resistance, complaining, or pushing you away Why teenagers often open up only right before bed, and how to use that time wisely The truth about sibling rivalry and how much of it comes down to a child’s fear of losing your attention Why one-size-fits-all parenting doesn’t work, and how to read each child’s unique temperament and needs Simple shifts parents can make to build resilience, cooperation, and trust How to balance warmth and boundaries without yelling, threatening, or feeling like you’re constantly firefighting Why this episode matters Parents today are raising kids in a completely different world, social media, algorithms, AI, academic pressure, and constant stimulation. Todd explains how secure attachment acts like a compass, helping children feel safe, grounded, confident, and better able to manage challenges. If you’ve ever felt: torn between being “gentle” and setting firm limits confused by conflicting parenting advice frustrated when strategies work for one child but not another overwhelmed by kids fighting, screen battles, or emotional ups and downs, this episode gives you clarity and direction. About Todd Sarner Todd is a parent coach and couples therapist based in the U.S., known for his attachment-based, developmentally aware approach to raising resilient kids. His new book, The Calm and Connected Parent, offers a clear, compassionate roadmap for parenting in the digital age. Listen now This is one of those conversations that will leave you feeling seen, supported, and equipped with practical tools you can use right away. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts, or listen now on Parent Like a Psychologist. Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au

Parenting in a digital world can feel overwhelming – especially with constant talk of screen time, social media, and bans that seem to change every five minutes. In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, I’m joined by Dr Jo Orlando, researcher and author of Generation Connected: How to Parent in a Digital World at Every Age and Stage. Jo has spent the last 15 years in Australian homes, schools, and communities – from big cities to very remote towns – watching how real families actually use technology. Her work shows that it’s not just the devices or apps themselves that matter, but how we use them, why we use them, and what our kids’ brains are doing at each age and stage. Together we unpack her framework of the three forces of digital parenting – Brain development Tech design Social context …and how these three pieces help us move away from “just limit screen time” and towards practical, realistic strategies that protect our kids and our relationship with them. In this episode, we talk about: Why blanket advice like “just limit screen time” doesn’t work – and what to focus on instead The difference between screen time and screen quality, and why 30 minutes isn’t always equal How tech use looks different at every age, from babies through to older teens The special role tech can play for neurodivergent kids, including social connection and success online What to look for in apps, games, and shows that might be overstimulating for younger or sensitive kids Simple ways to support your child’s transition off screens (and why some kids need a few quiet minutes to “re-enter” the offline world) How Jo’s three forces framework can help you problem-solve tricky situations – like tracking apps, Fortnite arguments, and social media drama The impact of our own tech habits as parents, right from baby feeding days through to the teen years Alternatives to using screens as our only calming/waiting strategy – and how to build more tools into your parenting toolkit The upcoming social media ban in Australia, why it hits 14–15 year olds hardest, and how to talk with your teen about FOMO, validation, and friendship Jo also shares powerful real-life stories from Australian families (with names changed), showing that there isn’t one “right” way to parent around tech – there are many paths that can work, once you understand what’s going on underneath. If you’ve ever worried you’re “doing it wrong” with screens, or felt stuck between fear-based headlines and “she’ll be right,” this episode will help you feel more informed, more confident, and more connected to your child in our digital world. Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au

Does your child burst into tears when dinner looks different, refuse a birthday party invite, or panic at the thought of trying swimming lessons? You’re not alone — and it’s not stubbornness or “bad behaviour.” In this episode, we unpack what’s really going on when kids resist new experiences and how you can support them with compassion and confidence. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: ✨ The real reason behind inflexibility — why children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensitive temperaments crave sameness and find change so overwhelming. 🧠 The mindset shift parents need to better understand their child’s reactions and reduce conflict. 🧺 Why prevention is 90% of the work when it comes to behaviour — and what to do before tricky moments happen. 🧒 Practical strategies to gently build flexibility, including: • Offering meaningful control and choices • Using visuals, social stories, and play-based exposure • Introducing small, manageable steps that reduce anxiety • Celebrating tiny wins to build confidence 💛 How to respond calmly in the moment — with empathy, coaching, and connection (not pressure) 💬 The exact language to validate your child’s feelings, reduce fear, and encourage resilience 🌱 Why progress — not perfection — is the goal when supporting a child who finds new things hard If your child struggles with change, unpredictability, anxiety, or big feelings, this episode will help you understand them more deeply and guide them forward with kindness. You’ll walk away with tools to: ✔ Prevent overwhelm and meltdowns before they happen ✔ Support your child to try new things at their pace ✔ Build their emotional skills, courage, and resilience over time For parents wanting extra support in teaching these skills at home, I also share how we can work together through Chaos to Calm. Press play to feel calmer, more confident, and equipped to help your child approach new experiences with courage — one small step at a time. Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au

When we first recognize that our child is neurodivergent, it can feel like the ground shifts beneath us. Parenting becomes less about “fixing” behaviors and more about reshaping expectations, letting go of old norms, and creating a home environment that truly works for everyone. In this heartfelt and personal episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, the host reflects on the real and often emotional shifts that come with parenting a neurodivergent child. Rather than focusing on clinical strategies or checklists, this conversation dives into three meaningful changes that transformed daily family life: Letting Go of the Sit-Down Dinner – Redefining what connection at the table looks like, understanding sensory and movement needs, and lowering pressure for “perfect” family mealtimes. Rethinking Physical Affection – Honoring a child’s boundaries while finding new, creative ways to stay connected. Invitations Instead of Instructions – Moving away from rigid demands and toward collaborative, flexible communication that invites cooperation. Through personal stories and gentle reflections, the episode explores how shifting parental expectations—rather than changing the child—can bring more calm, empathy, and connection into family life. Listeners will gain: Practical mindset shifts that ease daily stress Tips for adapting routines without losing family values A reminder that letting go of old expectations isn’t “giving up” — it’s making space for a better fit for your family. Perfect for: Parents of neurodivergent children, caregivers seeking more empathy-based approaches, and anyone ready to parent with greater flexibility and self-compassion. “Sometimes the biggest change doesn’t come from our kids — it comes from us.” Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au  

In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, host Leanne Tran sits down with Sandrine Alexandre Hughes — part-time lawyer, mum of three, and creator of the online safety resources See Me Together Online and the card games All the Likes and Smoke, Mirrors & Filters. Together, they explore how parents can build their children’s digital resilience and online safety awareness through connection, conversation, and play. Sandrine shares how hearing tragic online stories before the pandemic inspired her to create practical, anxiety-free ways for families to discuss e-safety — long before issues arise. You’ll learn: Why games are a powerful tool for opening conversations about online behaviour and digital literacy. How to start early, keep talks age-appropriate, and “chat early, chat often.” How the card game All the Likes helps children aged 6–12 learn about kindness, privacy, and online boundaries. How Smoke, Mirrors & Filters sparks reflection and discussion among teens and adults about selfies, filters, and social media habits. Why e-safety is a shared responsibility between parents, schools, and society — and how connection offline supports wellbeing online. How families, including those with neurodivergent children, can use play to explore these important topics safely and meaningfully. Leanne and Sandrine also dive into Australia’s new social media legislation, the mixed responses from families, and what it means for helping kids stay connected in healthier, more mindful ways. Tune in for an uplifting and practical conversation that reminds us: The best way to protect kids online is to stay connected offline. Resources Mentioned Website: teamtogetheronline.com  Games: All the Likes (ages 6–12) & Smoke, Mirrors & Filters (ages 15+) Merch: “I’m Your Favorite Notification” caps & mugs Show Notes Email: contact@teamtogetheronline.com  Instagram: @teamtogetheronline.com  Website: www.teamtogetheronline.com  “I am Sandrine, a mother to three kids. I’m French and Australian, and a lawyer by profession — it turns out a lawyer can be a creative entrepreneur too! I started Team Together Online to say goodbye to parental anxiety around online safety and wellbeing. Why a card game? Because what’s better than play to relax, connect, practise skills, and, ultimately, learn? Team Together Online’s mission has now expanded to help all generations improve their online wellbeing. That’s why I created Smoke, Mirrors + Filters (15+ / Adults) — so you can have fun and deep conversations you never thought you’d have!” Listener Bonus Sandrine is offering Parent Like a Psychologist listeners an exclusive 20% discount on All the Likes with the code PARENTING at checkout. Valid for 7 days after the release of this episode (while stocks last). Shop now at: teamtogetheronline.com  Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: hello@leannetran.com.auVisit my website: learn.leannetran.com.au

In this episode, I dive into one of my favourite things—talking through a book that’s reshaped how I think about parenting. Today, I’m reviewing Differently Wired by Deborah Reber, a powerful blend of memoir, guide, and rallying cry for parents raising children who experience the world in unique ways—whether through ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, giftedness, or simply not fitting into the "typical" mould. We explore Deborah’s 18 "tilts"—mindset shifts designed to help parents move away from trying to "fix" their kids and instead lean into who they truly are. These tilts aren’t rigid rules, but flexible perspectives you can adopt, adapt, or leave behind depending on what resonates for your family. From questioning traditional parenting advice, to letting go of judgment, to parenting from a place of possibility instead of fear, these ideas are all about matching your child’s needs with your parenting approach. Along the way, I share my reflections as a parent and psychologist, especially on how these ideas translate (and sometimes don’t) into the Australian context. We’ll unpack big themes like acceptance, connection, advocacy, and self-care—plus why embracing your child’s timeline and strengths can transform family life. Whether you’re raising a neurodivergent child or simply looking for fresh perspectives on parenting, this episode offers both encouragement and practical insights. Differently Wired reminds us that our children aren’t broken—they’re just wired differently—and it’s our job to parent them with curiosity, compassion, and confidence.Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychology Facebook: @Leanne Tran Linked In: @leannetranpsychology Email me: hello@leannetran.com.au Visit my website: www.leannetran.com.au

Do you ever find yourself yelling more than you’d like, feeling like the noise, clutter, and constant demands at home never stop? You’re not alone—and this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, we’re diving into practical, realistic ways to create a calmer home environment without needing perfection or exhausting effort. From reducing sensory overload to setting up predictable routines, you’ll learn how small environmental and routine tweaks can make a big difference for both you and your kids. We’ll talk about: Why your home environment matters for stress and regulation (for both parents and kids) How sensory needs—like light, sound, and visual clutter—impact neurodivergent kids (autistic, ADHD, anxious) Practical adjustments you can try, such as soft lighting, quiet zones, and calming corners The role of routines and predictability in reducing stress and meltdowns Why one small change at a time is the key to lasting calm And yes—there’s even a story about my dog going wild over reflections, which perfectly illustrates how changing the environment often works better than pushing for behavior changes. If you’ve been wishing your home felt more peaceful, safe, and supportive, this episode will give you the tools and encouragement to get started—without overwhelm. ✨ Free resources mentioned: https://learn.leannetran.com.au/free Follow me on: Instagram: @leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychology   Email me: hello@leannetran.com.au Visit my website: www.leannetran.com.au

In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we explore Low Demand Parenting by Amanda Diekman — a compassionate and practical approach gaining attention among parenting circles and neurodivergent communities. Drawing from Diekman’s lived experience as a late-diagnosed PDA autistic woman, pastor, parent coach, and mother of neurodivergent children, the book offers a roadmap for parents raising kids who struggle to meet typical expectations. I unpack the six-step framework Amanda outlines — from assessing and dropping demands to creating safety and building a low-demand life — and share real-world examples to make it tangible (yes, even the dreaded “put on your shoes” scenario). We’ll discuss how this approach differs from permissive parenting, the boundaries it maintains, and why connection-based parenting sits at its heart. Alongside the strengths, I also offer a reality check: what to consider if you can’t completely drop demands due to work, school, or other commitments, and the emotional resilience this approach requires from parents. You’ll hear about: How low demand parenting can lower stress and restore calm at home Practical adjustments to demands without sacrificing safety or values The difference between permissive parenting and intentional, low-demand choices Ways to work with your brain and nervous system as a parent Why professional or peer support can be key when implementing change Whether you’re a parent of a child with high anxiety, strong demand avoidance, or you simply feel like every request turns into a meltdown, this episode provides tools, perspectives, and encouragement. Take what works for your family, leave what doesn’t, and remember — parenting differently takes courage, but it can also bring relief, connection, and hope. Episode Notes & Links: Amanda Diekman’s Information: 📖 Low Demand Parenting – The Book 📸 @lowdemandamanda on Instagram Resources for Families: 🔹 Problem Solving with Your Child – Free Guide Follow me on: Instagram: @leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychology   Email me: hello@leannetran.com.au Visit my website: www.leannetran.com.au

In this powerful and practical episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, host Leanne Tran, psychologist and parent, explores the unique challenges autistic children face in school environments—and how parents can advocate effectively for the support their kids need. Drawing on her dual perspective as both a psychologist and a parent, Leanne unpacks: Why primary schools can be overwhelming for autistic kids—sensory overload, social fatigue, executive functioning struggles, and masking expectations The invisible signs of stress your child might be experiencing, even if everything looks "fine" at school What meaningful and proactive support looks like in a school setting, including visual schedules, sensory accommodations, movement breaks, social/emotional support, and flexible transition planning How to talk to your child’s teacher and school in a collaborative, empowered way (without feeling like “that parent”) This episode is not about generic checklists—it’s about individualising your child’s support plan based on their real needs and strengths. Leanne also shares a free downloadable guide to help parents start school-based conversations and advocate for their child's wellbeing. You can find it here: https://learn.leannetran.com.au/free Whether your child is already diagnosed, you're in the process of assessment, or you're simply trying to figure out how to help them feel less overwhelmed at school, this episode is full of compassionate advice and actionable steps. Tune in to feel empowered, informed, and ready to help your child not just survive—but thrive—in the classroom.The guide for advocating for your child with confidence is here: 👉 https://learn.leannetran.com.au/free Follow me on: Instagram: @leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychology   Email me: hello@leannetran.com.au Visit my website: www.leannetran.com.au  

In this insightful and heartwarming episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we return from the school holiday break refreshed—and ready to dive back into a crucial topic in our autism series: why stimming matters for autistic kids. Stimming, or self-stimulatory behavior, often includes repetitive movements, sounds, or phrases like hand flapping, rocking, or echolalia. It’s frequently misunderstood or discouraged by well-meaning adults—but what if we’ve been thinking about it all wrong? This episode reframes stimming not as a problem to fix, but as a vital form of emotional regulation and joyful expression. Drawing on inspiration from the recent Yellow Ladybugs conference (featuring Sandhya Menon from Onwards and Upwards Psychology), we explore: 🔹 Why stims help autistic children regulate their nervous systems 🔹 How suppressing stimming can lead to shutdown, masking, or emotional overwhelm 🔹 The difference between stress stims and joy stims 🔹 Supportive strategies to help your child regulate at home and school 🔹 How to shift your mindset from “How do I stop this?” to “How can I support this?” With warmth, clarity, and practical advice, this episode will empower you to tune into your child’s unique needs, embrace their ways of coping, and support their emotional wellbeing. 💡 A must-listen for parents, educators, and professionals seeking to better understand and support autistic kids—with compassion and respect. 🎙️ Listen now and learn why stimming is more than OK—it’s essential. 🌐 Resources mentioned in the episode: 🧭 Free guide for advocating for your child at school: learn.leannetran.com.au/free 📘 Helpful resources from Sandhya Menon and Onwards and Upwards Psychology: onwardsandupwardspsychology.com.au/worksheets 💛 More about Yellow Ladybugs: yellowladybugs.com.au   Follow me on: Instagram: @leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychology   Email me: hello@leannetran.com.au Visit my website: www.leannetran.com.au