In this heartfelt episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen is joined once again by Dr. Bianca Mastromanno, clinical psychologist and mother of two, to explore one of the most powerful skills we can develop as parents — helping our children (and ourselves) feel safe with big emotions.

Together, they unpack why feelings can be so hard to sit with, how our own upbringing shapes the way we respond to emotions, and what it really means to emotionally coach our kids — without trying to fix, rush, or rescue their feelings.

From real-life motherhood stories to practical, compassionate insights, this episode helps you embrace imperfection, build emotional trust, and navigate those intense moments with more calm and connection.

In This Episode:

• The impact of our own emotional history on how we respond to our child’s feelings
• Why “good girl/boy” or “stop crying” messages affect emotional safety
• What emotion coaching really means (and why it starts with your own awareness)
• How to validate your child’s emotions without rewarding unwanted behaviour
• Understanding guilt vs shame and how self-compassion transforms parenting
• The balance between empathy, boundaries, and allowing healthy discomfort
• Why repair after rupture matters more than getting it perfect every time

Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/

For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 88 Show Notes

And I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.

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Until next time, Thrivers