316. Self-compassion, critical thinking, and connection: What the research reveals about raising capable kids with Melinda Wenner Moyer

Melinda Wenner Moyer, author of the new book Hello, Cruel World! joins me to break down the most essential skills kids need to thrive in today's complicated times.

Together we explore:

• The three powerful themes Melinda saw again and again in her research and how you can tap into these to help you be more effective in your parenting.

• Practical and realistic ways to help kids feel truly seen and heard.

• How slowing down, staying curious, and fostering a growth mindset isn’t just for kids, but for parents too.

• The surprising power of guiding children to discover answers on their own—and how this can actually build critical neural circuitry in their brains

• A simple, impactful question you can ask your child to help them reflect and learn to trust their own judgment.

• The critical yet often overlooked role of self-compassion in mental health, and the three key components of self-compassion every parent should know.

• What it really means when kids say things like “I hate myself” or “I shouldn’t be part of this family,” and how to respond with empathy.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of modern parenting or worried about helping your child manage their feelings and decisions, this episode offers research-backed, actionable wisdom you won’t want to miss.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:

✨ https://www.melindawennermoyer.com/

READ HER BOOKS:

📚 Hello, Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times

📚 How to Raise Kids Who Aren't A**holes: Science-Based Strategies for Better Parenting--from Tots to Teens

CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

🎧 252. Secure attachment and growth mindset: The science behind raising well-adjusted kids with Melinda Wenner Moyer

🎧 14. Motherhood as a millennial: Tuning out the noise and learning to find trust in ourselves with Marcella Kelson

🎧 268. A deep dive on parental burnout: What it is, why it happens, and how to overcome it