Parenting can feel like an overwhelming balancing act—especially when it comes to navigating the preteen years. In a recent podcast interview with Baby Steps Podcast, Dr. Michelle Drapkin shared some incredibly insightful and practical tips for parents looking to create a healthy balance between fostering independence and staying connected with their children. She emphasized the importance of balancing autonomy with parental guidance, giving children the responsibility to manage their own schedules while staying present as a support system. Dr. Drapkin also shared how simple family traditions can strengthen connections and create space for reflection, helping families bond over the highs, lows, and future hopes of the day. Listen to the episode below to get tips on managing the chaos of family life to embracing technology mindfully.
“Our kids are figuring out life, and we’re often their frontal lobes, helping them navigate the world with guidance and patience.”
Dr. Drapkin’s insights go beyond just managing family matters—she also touches on building emotional resilience and modeling healthy regulation for children. With her background as a psychologist, Dr. Drapkin provided advice on co-regulation, staying calm during challenging moments, and trusting your instincts as a parent. She spoke about how, especially during tough times, it’s vital to be a steady and supportive presence for your children, guiding them through their emotions. Whether you’re currently parenting through the preteen stage or preparing for it, her honest and heartfelt guidance offers relatable solutions for fostering independence, connection, and emotional well-being in your children.
“The calmer we can stay, the better we can show up for our kids in the moments that matter most.”
Dr. Drapkin also touched on the evolving role of technology in family life. With screen time being a common challenge for many parents, she shared insights into setting healthy boundaries around devices and promoting mindful usage without feeling like the “bad guy.” The conversation is packed with practical advice for maintaining balance while keeping your child’s emotional and developmental needs at the forefront.
Tune in for a conversation full of actionable tips and lasting advice that every parent can apply! Visit the Baby Steps Podcast on Spotify to hear more of these enlightening discussions
