Welcome to
the blog!

Meaningful holiday traditions with kids do not have to be elaborate or Pinterest perfect. In this Beyond the Sessions Q and A, Dr. Sarah Bren, Dr. Emily Upshur, and Dr. Rebecca Hershberg help parents balance gifts with connection, lower expectations, and find simple rituals that feel joyful instead of exhausting.

read the full post ⟶

365. Q&A: How do I start making meaningful holiday traditions with my kids when all they want is presents?

Parents and child decorating a lit Christmas tree together in a cozy home.

featured post

364. The psychology of autonomy and growth: Building stress tolerance, confidence, and motivation with Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson

Toddler with arms raised toward a caregiver, showing energy, confidence, and a desire for connection.

In this expert interview, neuropsychologist Dr. William Stixrud and tutor coach Ned Johnson join Dr. Sarah Bren to show how a child’s sense of control is key to building stress tolerance and confidence in kids, using play, rest, and a calm parent to raise self driven, resilient children.

keep reading  ⟶

363. Q&A: Is it normal for my toddler to constantly say they’re sorry for everything?

Parent and toddler smiling and touching hands while sitting near a window.

If your toddler says “I am sorry” for everything, even when nothing is their fault, you are not alone. In this Q and A, Dr. Sarah Bren and Dr. Emily Upshur explain why young children repeat apologies, how theory of mind develops, and how to respond in a way that builds confidence and emotional awareness.

keep reading  ⟶

362. A simple parenting strategy with a big impact on kids’ self-regulation, attention, and creativity, with somatic therapist Alé Duarte

Parent supporting a young child building a tall tower with colorful blocks.

Somatic therapist Alé Duarte, creator of KidSoma, joins Dr. Sarah Bren to explain why play is not a break from learning but the foundation of nervous system regulation. Learn how helping your child complete biological cycles can reduce impulsivity, ease transitions, and bring more calm to your daily routines.

keep reading  ⟶