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Discerning Parenting

Discerning Parenting

Victoria Ang-Nolasco, MD

Are there days you feel you’ve had it with the sleepless nights, the temper tantrums, the constant fatigue of trying to keep up with an active baby?
Does it feel like you’re always working so hard as a parent, trying to do everything for your kids and family, and yet it never feels enough?
We get it. You love your child more than anything, and yet parenting is also exhausting and challenging. Especially when you’re bombarded with criticism and pressure to be the perfect parent (which, spoiler alert, does not exist!).
But what if you had experts who understand exactly what you’re going through help you navigate the everyday challenges of parenting your baby, toddler, or preschooler? What if they help you use scientific research to your advantage, so you become the calmer, happier, and more empowered parent you’ve always wanted to be?
That's why we created "Discerning Parenting," the podcast that helps you cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters in your parenting journey.
Join Dr. Victoria Ang-Nolasco, developmental and behavioral pediatrician, positive parenting coach, author, speaker, and mom, as she and our guest experts tackle your most pressing parenting concerns.
From toddler discipline to helping kids learn to talk or to read, from starting solids and potty training to promoting social and emotional development, this podcast is jam-packed with valuable insights and practical tips specifically tailored for parents of kids age 5 and below. So join us and discover how you can use the combined power of science, knowing your child, and your own intuition in making the best parenting decisions for you and your family.
Head over to discerningparenting.com and get our FREE parenting resource library too!

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Top 10 Discerning Parenting Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Discerning Parenting episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Discerning Parenting for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Discerning Parenting episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

How often have you pledged to yourself that today will be different, that you won't raise your voice or lose your temper? The grocery shopping, dinner preparation, and myriad other responsibilities seem to pile up, and it feels like the weight of the world rests on your shoulders.
Join us as we explore the inevitable cycle of yelling, guilt, and promises to do better next time.
Discover the underlying reasons behind the outbursts and explore practical strategies to foster a more serene and nurturing environment for you and your children.
Tune in to this thought-provoking episode and gain valuable tools to transform your parenting journey. It's time to break free from the cycle and create a home filled with understanding, patience, and genuine connection.
❤️ Find wholeness for yourself, so you can show up better for your family. Come on a HeartHealing® journey to heal the self-doubt, negativity, and worry that’s been holding you back from full parenting success.

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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Welcome to this week's episode of the Discerning Parenting podcast, where we delve into the crucial topic of why kids need to move and explore practical ways to incorporate more movement into their daily lives. As parents, it's a common concern to ensure our children are staying active and healthy, yet many of us face challenges in finding opportunities for them to move, whether it's due to limited space or busy schedules.
Today, we're joined by a special guest who brings both personal and professional insights to the discussion. Dr. Rachel Pope, a doctor of physical therapy, a dedicated mother of four, and an avid runner, understands firsthand the importance of movement for children's development. She'll be sharing her expertise on why movement matters and offering valuable tips on how parents can encourage their kids to stay active, even amid busy routines and constrained environments.
So, if you've ever wondered how to get your kids moving more or why it's so essential for their growth and well-being, you're in for a treat. Let's dive in with Dr. Rachel Pope and explore the transformative power of movement in parenting.
About our Guest:
Dr. Rachel Pope is a doctor of physical therapy (since 2006), and pregnancy & postpartum specialist, she has helped countless Moms get strong again so they can live their lives. As a Mom, Dr. Rachel knows how limited the time you have to yourself is. Some days it feels impossible to squeeze any more into a day. That's why she combined her experience and expertise to create the perfect mix of quick, yet impactful exercises for a fast return back to running. Learn about how Dr. Rachel can help you.

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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Are you considering a furry addition to your family? If your child's clamoring for a dog or showing love for furry friends, you're not alone. But when is it truly the right time, and how do you choose?
In today's episode, we're joined by psychiatric nurse and dog trainer, Jane Rosenblum, for expert insights. Whether it's readiness, responsibility, or lifestyle fit, we'll cover all the essential factors to consider.
And if you're a dog owner prepping for a new baby, check out our last episode for invaluable tips. Let's explore the journey of pets and children together!
Meet our guest:
Jane Rosenblum began her career as a registered nurse, specializing in psychiatric care and advocating for at-risk children within families. Recognizing a need for guidance on dog-child interactions, she transitioned to become a certified dog trainer in 2003. With a Bachelor of Science from San Francisco State University and a Certificate in Training & Counseling from the San Francisco SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers, she now offers vital support to families with young children and dogs. Leveraging her background in nursing, she provides expert advice and practical solutions for ensuring safe and harmonious relationships between pets and children.

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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In this episode of The Discerning Parenting Podcast, Dr. Victoria Ang Nolasco is joined by special guest and co-author, Teacher Tasha Reyes Mendoza, to discuss their new book, Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read Stress-Free. They address the concerns and anxieties that many parents feel about helping their children learn to read in a world that often pushes academic skills at an early age. Together, they provide insights into a more natural, developmental approach to literacy that builds foundational skills and respects the child’s readiness.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode

  • Why today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world creates new pressures around early reading.
  • How to focus on your relationship with your child to support their reading journey.
  • Understanding the "science of reading" and how to apply it in a stress-free way.
  • The importance of foundational skills and developmental readiness before formal reading instruction.
  • Practical, science-backed advice on fostering a love for reading through play and bonding.

About Our Guest
Teacher Tasha Reyes Mendoza, a reading intervention specialist and mother of four, brings over a decade of experience in teaching children of all abilities to read. She has coached families, teachers, and schools on literacy strategies and shares her expertise and passion for nurturing lifelong readers in this episode.
Key Takeaways

The Role of Developmental Readiness: Learn why pushing early reading may be counterproductive and how to recognize signs of reading readiness.
The Power of Parent-Child Connection: Discover how a strong relationship with your child lays the groundwork for successful reading and lifelong learning.
Realistic Expectations in a Digital Age: Dr. Victoria and Teacher Tasha explore how digital media and early academic pressure impact young children’s development and how parents can find a balanced approach.
Resources Mentioned
Book: Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read Stress-FreeOrder on Amazon or visit our website.
Quotes to Remember
“Our relationship with our kids is the foundation of everything—including their learning journey.” - Dr. Victoria Ang Nolasco
“Reading readiness cannot be rushed. It’s about building foundational skills and waiting for developmental signs.” - Teacher Tasha Reyes Mendoza

Enjoy this heartwarming and insightful conversation that brings a fresh, compassionate approach to supporting your child’s reading journey—without the stress.

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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Do your toddler’s kicks or hits have you questioning if it’s more than just the "terrible two's"? One of the most common questions is “When should I worry about my toddler's aggressive behavior?” And if that's your question, we've got you covered today because I've invited two trusted developmental and behavioral pediatricians to join us.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL WALK AWAY WITH:
•The single most common reason behind a lot of what we call "toddler aggression" (and it has nothing to do with your toddler wanting to hurt others!)
•One vital thing parents can do to prevent and manage "aggressive behavior"
•If you've been told, "You need to spank your child!" by someone who's seen your child hit or kick - you'll know why this backfires

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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Discerning Parenting - 060 - Preschool Readiness Without The Stress with Candy Chan
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02/27/24 • 39 min

Many parents worry when their three-year-olds aren't yet reading or writing, fearing they might be falling behind. Today's podcast episode will address these concerns by exploring early literacy milestones and expectations.
Candy Chan, an Oxford Brain Story Certified educator, a Certified Emotional Intelligence Life Coach, and a Certified Health and Wellness Coach are joining today's conversation. With her wealth of knowledge, Candy sheds light on the intricacies of early childhood literacy, offering valuable insights and practical advice for parents navigating this crucial developmental stage.
Whether you're a concerned parent seeking guidance or simply curious about early childhood education, this episode promises to be both informative and enlightening. Tune in to gain invaluable knowledge and empower your child's literacy development journey.
About our guest:
Candy Chan is an Oxford Brain Story Certified educator, Emotional Intelligence Life Coach, and Health and Wellness Coach. With over 11 years of experience teaching preschool and a background in Children's Ministry, she understands the crucial role of emotional intelligence in child development. Candy's journey, from Stanford alum with patents to founding Hoppity Learning, is driven by her belief in empowering parents and children alike. Through Hoppity Learning, she aims to nurture strong parent-child connections and equip families with emotional intelligence skills for a brighter future.

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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Discerning Parenting - 023 - Why Won't My Baby Sleep?

023 - Why Won't My Baby Sleep?

Discerning Parenting

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06/13/23 • 9 min

You are exhausted because your baby won't sleep. Then you see all the advice that says you should ignore your baby's cries because if you ignore them long enough, they'll fall asleep. But your mama heart just can't leave your baby screaming and crying all alone in the crib.
Then, you hear these voices telling you, "You are such a pushover. That baby has you wrapped around their little finger." Or "Why are you letting your baby dictate your schedule and what you do?"
Is all this criticism true? Is it your fault that your baby won't sleep? Are you breathing bad habits because you rock your baby to sleep? And what can you do so you don't spend the entire night rocking your baby so they don't wake up? We'll address these questions in this episode.
Discover what works when it comes to sleep, and learn research-backed techniques for soothing your baby.
Sleep, Your Baby, and You is a FREE MINI COURSE created by a trusted pediatrician, to help families with newborns find the answers to one of your most important needs right now: Sleep!
Access the mini-course for FREE when you visit discerningparenting.com/sleep

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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Have you been thinking of enrolling your child in a reading program? Or maybe there are advertisements for reading programs popping up on your Facebook feed, or maybe you're thinking you're worrying about whether your child is going to be ready for school, so you are looking for a program where you can enroll your child so that they will learn to read.
How do you choose one that is right for your child? And why is it so important to choose the right ones? Are there any consequences if you choose the wrong reading program? We'll find out right here in this episode.
We are joined once again by Teacher Tasha Mendoza, a Reading Intervention Specialist, as we talk about reading programs and how to choose the right one, and towards the end we'll also talk about how we can support you further in your journey of teaching your child to read.
Click here and get your FREE guide: Prepare Your Child for Reading
This is the last episode in the series, How to Teach Your Child to Read. If you haven't checked out our previous episodes, click the links below:

  1. How Do Kids Learn To Read?
  2. How do Reading Skills Develop? The Stages of Learning to Read
  3. Reading Readiness: What It Means and Why Is It Important

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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"It's a tricky ground, but if we dig deeper into the technical side of things, so what's happening in the brains of these little kids, of these screen-engrossed kids, we can actually find that their brains have their circuitry similar to what occurs in the brains of adults addicted to substances like nicotine, alcohol, and cocaine." -Dr. Paul Filomeno
In this episode, we'll unravel the mysteries behind screen time addiction in children—a topic that resonates with countless parents, educators, and caregivers globally.
As technology becomes an ever-present part of our lives, understanding its impact on our children is more crucial than ever. Dr. Filomeno brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to illuminate the effects of excessive screen time and provide practical insights to help navigate this intricate landscape.
Get ready to explore the nuances of digital usage, learn about warning signs, and discover effective strategies to strike a healthy balance in a world where screens are omnipresent.
About our guest:
Dr. Paul Lawrence Filomeno, or Dr. Paulfi for short, is a board-certified pediatrician with a Master of Public Health degree. He is currently in his final year of training in Addiction Medicine at the UP-PGH. Armed with the knowledge and skills both from pediatrics and addiction medicine, Dr. Paulfi is passionate about pediatric and behavioral addictions, especially screen and gaming addiction in children. He has shared his expertise in several symposia, most recently with the PPS-Southern Tagalog Chapter and the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health of Thailand. He completed his medical degree from the PLM-College of Medicine in 2013 and took up general pediatric training at the UP-PGH from 2015-2018. Aside from fellowship training, Dr. Paulfi spends most of his time with his family, especially as a hands-on dad to his 18-month-old daughter, Laureen.
Follow Dr. Paul's advocacy page that's launching soon - https://www.facebook.com/adiksyonaryo
If you wish to seek consultation and/or avail of the free services of PGH Addiction Medicine, you may contact them at +63 949 438 5188.

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

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As the school year wraps up and vacation time begins, many of us are feeling the pressure to plan activities, keep our kids entertained, and even start gearing up for the next school year. This busy season can quickly become overwhelming.
In this episode, we'll discuss how to navigate the chaos, share tips for a fun and relaxing summer, and offer strategies to prepare for the upcoming school year without the stress.
Tune in for a dose of summer sanity!🌞

⭐ Our book Learning by Heart: Teach Your Child to Read, Stress-Free is now on Amazon! Click here to learn more about Dr. Victoria Nolasco's books.
⭐ Check out our FREE Discerning Parenting Toolkit and Resource Library.
⭐ Find out more about our on-demand courses to guide you through parenting challenges.

The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.

bookmark
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FAQ

How many episodes does Discerning Parenting have?

Discerning Parenting currently has 93 episodes available.

What topics does Discerning Parenting cover?

The podcast is about Education For Kids, Parenting, Kids & Family, Parenting Advice and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on Discerning Parenting?

The episode title '053 - Why Promising to Keep Calm is Not the Way to Stop Yelling' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Discerning Parenting?

The average episode length on Discerning Parenting is 21 minutes.

How often are episodes of Discerning Parenting released?

Episodes of Discerning Parenting are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Discerning Parenting?

The first episode of Discerning Parenting was released on Feb 15, 2023.

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