𧩠What If Parenting Was More About Connection Than Control?
Parenting isnât about fixing kidsâitâs about understanding them. In this compelling episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Todd Sarner, a leading psychotherapist and parenting coach, to explore how parents can radically transform their relationships with their children by shifting from behavior-first discipline to an attachment-first mindset.
đ§ Behavior is a Symptom, Not the Problem
Todd Sarner emphasizes that childrenâs challenging behaviors are often signals of stress or unmet emotional needs. Rather than reacting with punishment or control, he advocates for curiosity and connection. This attachment-first parenting model allows caregivers to see beneath the surface behavior and address the root causes with empathy and structure.
đ ïž Tools for Calm, Connected Parenting
- Regulation over reaction â Learn to co-regulate your childâs nervous system by staying calm and connected.
- Rituals and routines â Discover how simple habits build attachment and predictability.
- Micro-shifts â Small daily changes in language, tone, and timing can lead to lasting behavioral improvements.
Sarner also introduces concepts from his forthcoming book The Calm and Connected Parent, offering practical guidance for building emotional safety, resilience, and confidence in your children.
đ€ Why Attachment Comes Before Discipline
Discipline without connection can damage trust. This episode unpacks how consequences, when grounded in relationship and consistency, are far more effective and less stressful. Sarnerâs approach blends neuroscience, practical experience, and deep empathy to help parents move from chaos to calm.
đ§ As Heard on PGK
Check out other books we’ve talked about on the podcast.
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đĄ Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed as a Parent? Dr. Meg Meeker Can Help You Move Forward with Confidence
If youâre feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose.
Start your coaching journey today
Disclosure: This episode is sponsored by Todd Sarner and Transformative Parenting. We received compensation for this interview. All opinions expressed are our own.
