The Science of Parenting

The Science of Parenting

Author: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Language: English Episodes: 100
Parenting is a journey filled with unexpected turns, from navigating a toddler's big emotions to finding connection with a withdrawn teenager. The Science of Parenting is here to walk that path with you, offering grounded advice that translates academic research into practical, everyday strategies. Hosted by parenting educators from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, each episode tackles real questions and challenges faced by families. You'll hear conversations that feel like a thoughtful discussion with a trusted friend who also happens to understand child development and behavioral science. This podcast moves beyond generic tips, delving into the "why" behind children's behaviors to help you respond with more confidence and less stress. Whether you're seeking clarity on setting boundaries, fostering resilience, or simply managing the daily chaos, the insights shared are rooted in evidence and empathy. Tune in for a supportive resource that respects the complexity of raising kids, reminding you that you're not alone in figuring it all out.
Episodes
Establishing the Environment | S.9 Ep.5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:00
Do you wish your home was more peaceful? Us too. This week, you might be surprised by some of the strategies for establishing a home environment that encourages kids and adults to practice self-regulation. Support the sh…
Tuning in with Temperament | S.9 Ep.4 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:52
Why does one of my kids gravitate toward tranquility while another gravitates toward tantrums? Because temperament. This week, the cohosts look at temperament traits, their influence on kids’ regulation tendencies, and p…
Regulation in Stages | S.9 Ep.3 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:18
Does regulation look the same for kids of different ages? What exactly are kids “regulating” toward? Parents of toddlers intervene HOW OFTEN to manage behavior? Get all these answers in this week’s episode! Support the s…
I'm The Adult Here: My Regulation | S.9 Ep.2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:45
In this week’s episode, we examine and reflect on our parenting role when it comes to regulation, self-control, and big feelings. We also look at a common wellness strategy applied specifically to parenting! Support the…
What is Self-Regulation? | S.9 Ep. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:44
In this season opener, the cohosts dive into the topic of regulation and three different kinds of it. Plus, they discuss a crucial strategy for helping our kids regulate themselves. Support the show Send us an email: par…
Changes to CDC Milestones | Bonus [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:48
With the recent changes to the CDC’s milestone checklists, we know that some parents have had questions about what changed, why they changed them, and what it means for their family. Check out our bonus podcast episode t…
When My Child Misbehaves: Deciding on Discipline | S.8 Ep.6 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:06
It’s inevitable: our child won’t always behave in ways we love. This week Lori and Mackenzie look at specific parenting practices and situations to help you find effective guidance and discipline strategies. Support the…
Gauge by Their Age | S.8 Ep.5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:28
What we use with our toddler won’t always work with our teenager (or will it?). This episode the hosts look at how to adapt and adjust our discipline strategies to meet our kids where they are at developmentally. Support…
Recognizing the Parent-Child Relationship | S.8 Ep.4 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:52
We all hope we have a positive relationship with our child, but did you know the climate of that relationship is a major factor in how resistant or cooperative your child is with your attempts to shape their behavior? Li…
Emotions: The Good, Bad, and Ugly | S.8 Ep.3 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:29
I've got a feeling that emotions play a big part in our interactions with our children. The hosts discuss the emotional process, and they dig back out one of their favorite concepts to explain the effect our emotions hav…