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Join host Laura Bennett as she delves into parenting with psychologist, teacher, and author Colett Smart. Explore strategies for managing school-related stress, fostering children's identity beyond academics and activities, and maintaining healthy family dynamics. Colette shares insights into balancing extracurricular commitments, approaching other parents' expectations, and the impact of adult stress on children. Discover how to raise teens with intention and purpose, emphasizing the importance of staying present and engaged.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating Change: Colette discusses how any form of change, even positive, induces stress and suggests approaching a new school year with a mindset that embraces both excitement and challenges.

• Emotional Load: She highlights the emotional burden parents and children carry during transitions, advocating for early intervention and support if stress becomes overwhelming.

• Balancing Activities: Encourages parents to support their children's passions but maintain a healthy balance to ensure time for social interactions and relaxation.

• Parental Influence: Stresses the importance of modeling positive responses to stress and maintaining open communication to alleviate children's anxieties.

• Social Engagements: Advocates for clear communication among parents to manage expectations regarding children's social activities, making these experiences enjoyable without overwhelming commitments.

Notable Quotes:

• "All change can cause some form of stress, but it also brings exciting opportunities for growth." – Colett Smart

• "You need to be the voice for your children and get them support early on." – Colett Smart

• "Try to expand and make sure that they have other avenues where they reach out to others." – Colett Smart

• "Someone needs to be brave enough to start the discussion... most parents are relieved." – Colett Smart

• "We need to give our children hope and talk about what they can bring to the world." – Colett Smart

Resources:

• Colett Smart’s book: "They’ll Be Okay: 15 Conversations to Help Your Child Through Troubled Times"

• Listen to Undistracted with Laura Bennett here on Apple Podcasts

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