Parenting 101 |S1, Eps 5| #behavioralpsychology #parentingadvice #parentingsupport #lewisham

Is that child “difficult”… or are they trying to tell us something? In this episode, I sit down with an Early Years Parenting Practitioner, Monique Harris who works closely with families navigating behavioural challenges. We talk about the idea of house rules...not rules for the kids and separate rules for us BUT but shared standards that create fairness and respect in the home. We speak about giving children grace. Not ignoring everything, but choosing connection over constant correction. Because when we only highlight mistakes, we slowly chip away at confidence. One thing that really stood out? You can’t give a child self-worth. You have to help them realise it for themselves. We also dive into how negative words literally shape neural pathways. When a child constantly hears “you’re too lazy” or “you always do this,” that doesn’t just disappear. It wires the brain. And sometimes, that’s why adults hesitate to apply for roles, step forward or believe they’re capable...it's because the belief was planted early. Monique shares something so simple but powerful: 10 intentional minutes a day! Just 10. And how that can completely shift connection. We also talk about looking beyond behaviour and asking: What’s the message underneath? Is something really “boring”… or is it just difficult? Is a child being “difficult”… or are they struggling? If you’re a parent, educator, mentor or even reflecting on the words that shaped you, this episode will get you thinking. #youthministry #lifecoaching #leadershipineducation #familydynamics #behaviour #childrenandfamily #supportthemission