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Did you know kids have an 8th sense that helps them regulate emotions and behavior? In this episode, Dr. Sarah Bren and OT Kelly Mahler explore interoception—the sense that helps children notice body signals like hunger, stress, or excitement—and share practical strategies for parents to build emotional awareness and resilience through play and connection.

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346. The science of interoception: How parents can help kids connect body signals to emotions with OT Kelly Mahler

Mother showing a young child two circular objects during a playful learning activity.

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345. Q&A: Is it okay to discipline someone else’s child during a playdate?

Child pulling another child’s hair while the sibling screams in pain.

What should you do if another child hits your child during a playdate? In this Q&A, Dr. Sarah Bren, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, and Dr. Emily Upshur explore respectful ways to set boundaries, protect your child, and navigate tricky dynamics with other parents—while keeping all kids safe and supported.

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343. Q&A: What should I do when empathy and connection doesn’t calm my child down?

Mother hugging upset child to provide comfort and connection.

Sometimes empathy and connection aren’t enough to calm a child in the heat of the moment. In this Q&A episode, Dr. Sarah Bren, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, and Dr. Emily Upshur discuss why strategies don’t always “work,” how to redefine success, and practical ways to stay grounded while supporting your child.

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342. Big feelings, belonging, and nervous system regulation: Developing emotional intelligence in the middle years with Alyssa Blask Campbell

Smiling preteen boy in a classroom learning environment.

Parenting kids ages 5–12 comes with new challenges—bigger emotions, shifting identities, and growing social pressures. In this episode, Alyssa Blask Campbell shares practical tools from her book Big Kids, Bigger Feelings to help families navigate regulation, belonging, and resilience so children can thrive with confidence and connection.

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