Everything Seems Impossible When Our Kids Won't Listen
Summary
Janet Lansbury addresses a parent struggling with her nine-year-old son’s resistance to morning routines, ADHD, and feelings of being replaced by a new baby. She advises the parent to deeply empathize with the child’s vulnerability and negative emotions rather than taking his requests literally, fostering a sense of being truly seen. Practical tips include creating a "yes space" for the infant and offering gentle, supportive help with tasks to reduce friction. The episode emphasizes that welcoming a child’s difficult feelings strengthens the parent-child bond and eases daily transitions.
Topics discussed
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Introduction and new book 'Baby Person' pre-order
Listener question: Difficulty with listening and ADHD
Detailed account of morning struggles and sibling dynamics
Additional context on the child's personality and preferences
Analysis: Recognizing the child's clear communication of needs
Strategy: Empathizing with vulnerability and 'unreasonable' requests
The importance of welcoming negative feelings and dark sides
Reframing the parent-child dynamic as a true team
Examining the tone of requests and the child's perception
Practical approach: Offering help instead of directing
Managing the baby: Creating a 'Yes Space' for downtime
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Morning routine tips: Streamlining tasks and offering aid
Understanding why children get stuck in transitions
Handling frustration and anger directed at parents
Personal anecdote: Middle child reactions to new siblings
Conclusion: Trust, acceptance, and bridging the divide
Sponsor: Monday.com AI agents (outro)
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