Parent Resource Library
Over the years, I’ve amassed a strong library of resources to help inform my parenting. I hope it might be helpful to you, too. Take what you need, leave what you don’t, and know that you have this page to come back to through all of life’s seasons.Disclaimer: This page contains personal recommendations. All podcast names, artwork, and trademarks belong to their respective owners and are used here for identification and promotional purposes only.
Parent Self-Care + Resiliency
Unlocking Us Podcast by Brene Brown
“I’ve spent over 20 years studying the emotions and experiences that bring meaning and purpose to our lives, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s this: we are hardwired for connection, and connecting requires courage, vulnerability, and conversation. I want this to be a podcast that’s real, unpolished, honest, and reflects both the magic and the messiness of what it means to be human.”
Brene Brown is one of my role models. She is a self-proclaimed introvert, but also thrives as a strong woman who is incredibly passionate within her role of expertise and isn’t afraid to put herself out there. Her work is cerebral, but relatable.
A favorite episode: “ Brene with Dr. Edith Eger on Recognizing the Choices and Gifts in our Lives”
The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Dr. Edith Eva Eger
I heard Brene Brown first interview her on Brene’s podcast, “Unlocking Us” and I knew I needed more. I was immediately moved by the story of this 90-year-old psychologist who wrestled with PTSD, trauma, and grief after surviving captivity in the concentration camps. Her account is a page-turner, especially when you learn how she eventually fought her way back to herself and pursued a career in psychology to help others do the same.
Her book is one of those you put down and say, “Wow.”
A favorite quote:
“My own search for freedom and my years of experience as a licensed clinical psychologist have taught me that suffering is universal. But victimhood is optional” (7).
Cory Muscara: “Practicing Human”
“Practicing Human is a daily podcast, hosted by Cory Muscara, offering insights and practices into how to live a fulfilling life. Cory pulls on his time living as a Buddhist monk in Burma, his many years as a mindfulness and meditation teacher, and his work in Positive Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania.”
A favorite episode: “Letting Go & Feeling Out of Control”
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IxtcSkJPR4sgfLe9TL8ll?si=d08b05ff85f640fe
Cory’s episodes range anywhere from 5 minutes to about 20 – perfect for quick listens when you can fit them in.
Gretchen Rubin: Happier
“Hi, I’m Gretchen Rubin. For more than a decade, I’ve been studying human nature—the science of the soul. My happiness project is to understand myself, the people around me, and how we can move from good intentions to concrete actions to build happier lives.”
A favorite podcast episode: “Ep. 240: Use the Emergency Kit for Anxiety, Worry, and Stress”
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sVlwscW3A9Xego9fW0EqW?si=f812369995f94091
Caring for Body & Mind:
Peloton App One
“Peloton App One membership ($12.99/mo) offers unlimited access to strength, yoga, meditation, outdoor running, and gym workouts, plus 3 cardio equipment classes per month… The Peloton App offers a variety of meditation classes, including those focused on mindfulness, healing, calming, happiness, body scans, and somatic exercises.”
A favorite: Sleep meditations! I love the 5-minute meditations, but there are all types. Be sure to also check out the following class collections: Adaptive Training: Caregivers Spotlight, and Peloton Family (we love the Fit Family Brain Breaks)!
Parent Support
Nourish for Caregivers
“Nourish for Caregivers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our mission is to support and empower caregivers through the gift of faith.”
A favorite: Subscribe to their inbox newsletters for faith-filled inspiration!
I also read and really enjoyed their book, The Caregiver’s Companion. Don’t miss the Appendix, filled with all kinds of great resources!
You can find it here: https://amzn.to/4aPTMNG
Epilepsy
The Epilepsy Foundation
“The Epilepsy Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by epilepsy through education, advocacy, research, and connection. In partnership with the CDC, the Epilepsy Foundation has helped to improve access to care for people with epilepsy and trained more than 600,000 people in seizure recognition and first aid.”
A few favorites: Seizure First Aid and Training
(https://www.epilepsy.com/recognition/first-aid-resources),
resources for seizure tracking (https://www.epilepsy.com/manage/tracking), and the Family/Caregivers page (https://www.epilepsy.com/parents-and-caregivers).
ADHD
Russell Barkley
“This channel is dedicated to disseminating the science about ADHD. It is based on Dr. Barkley’s 45 years of clinical practice, research, and teaching and his many books and scientific papers. In 2023, he was named by Research.com as the 37th most influential researcher in the US and 65th in the world in terms of the impact of his research on psychological science as attested to by how often his research is cited by others. He has recently retired. In anticipation of his retirement, he has created videos of more than 30 hours of his lectures that have been posted here.”
A favorite: “Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), ASD, ADHD & OCD
ADDitude: ADHD Science and Strategies
“Since 1998, tens of millions of readers have trusted ADDitude to deliver expert advice and caring support, making us the leading media network for parents and adults living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADDitude is not only the world’s most trusted source of strategies and information about ADHD and related conditions such as learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and oppositional defiant disorder, we are also the voice and advocate of the ADHD community.”
A favorite: Free webinars full of incredible information!
Reserve your “spot” and then watch the recording later!
https://www.additudemag.com/tag/webinar/
If you’re an educator, you also don’t want to miss these resources:
https://www.additudemag.com/category/parenting-adhd-kids/school-learning/for-teachers/. See the “School and Learning” tab under Menu listings for more!
Finally, ADDitude’s newsletters are totally worth the subscription! This is my favorite, go-to resource for all things ADHD, and the information delivered to my inbox is incredibly valuable.
CHADD (CHildren and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
“CHADD empowers people affected by ADHD by providing evidence-based information; supporting individuals, their families, and professionals who assist them throughout their journeys; and advocating for equity, inclusion, and universal rights.”
A favorite: This is another website that is absolutely full of great information. I really love these resources for educators:
All Things ADHD (by CHADD)
“CHADD’s All Things ADHD podcast addresses a variety of topics for anyone dealing with ADHD. Listen for interventions, strategies, and tips for parents, teens, adults, educators, and professionals.”
A favorite episode: “How to Help Your Child with ADHD Cultivate Healthy Eating Habits (ADHD 365)”
https://open.spotify.com/episode/72BuB8sOlBwg4kiDg2XXwe?si=0d425de497c74d6e
Email Tips
A New Day Pediatric Psychology, with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart
“We need to own our feelings so our kids can own theirs. Before starting any more parenting techniques or strategies, first start with changing your parent mindset. It starts with you. We can help.”
A favorite: Subscribe to receive emails from Dr. Lockhart, and you’ll get great tips straight to your inbox. A New Day also offers incredible parent courses – though the emails and downloads have always been enough for me! You can subscribe here:
Seth Perler
“I’m Seth Perler, former teacher turned Executive Function Expert Nerd. I help complicated struggling students learn how awesome they are, and create breakthroughs to help change their trajectory… for good.
I also teach parents, educators, and coaches how to use my non-traditional methods to help kids boost Executive Function skills.”
A favorite: Subscribe to receive emails from Seth, and you’ll get short Vlog videos with tips/tricks delivered straight to your inbox.
Twice-Exceptional (2e), Autism, ADHD, Learning differences, and other Neuro-divergence:
Bright & Quirky Kids
“We’re an online psychoeducation company helping thousands of bright families, with ADHD, anxiety, learning differences like dyslexia and/or on the autistic spectrum, live their happiest, most productive lives.”
A favorite: Subscribe to receive emails from Debbie, and you’ll get short Vlog interviews with incredible experts delivered straight to your inbox!
https://brightandquirky.com/free-resources/
Understood
“Understood is a nonprofit dedicated to shaping the world for difference. We provide resources and support so people who learn and think differently can thrive — in school, at work, and throughout life.”
A favorite: The podcast page, with anything and everything you need to know!
https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts
Resources and visual schedules to help teach organization:
Emotional Regulation
Beautifully Complex (Penny Williams)
“I’ll teach you how to dial down the big emotions and big behaviors, maximizing successes for your kid. You’ll parent with purpose to create a neuro-affirming ecosystem where your kid, and your family, can thrive.”
A favorite: The “Resources for ADHD and Autism” page –
(https://parentingadhdandautism.com/resources/)
Penny also has a podcast! Check it out here:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5CZPRKNCx2c0APgDIdrSxN?si=7f1808e0d2484e34
Delight in Parenting (Dajana Yoakley)
“Peaceful parenting is an approach that uses firm and kind limits while empathizing with the child to help them feel understood. The parents are in charge, but they coach and support children to meet their expectations.
Why does this approach work? Our relationship is the only influence we have over our children. Don’t let stress and conflict ruin your relationship with your child. Take your parenting skills to the next level and embrace a more peaceful approach.”
A favorite: “Delight in Parenting” blog –
https://www.delightinparenting.com/posts
Dajana also has a podcast! Check it out here:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5rwhKlYW5UXQQY5adhFlCq?si=fc4f442635cd44c3
Enlightening Motherhood (Emily Hamblin)
“Many moms feel worn thin from years of dealing with their kids’ big emotions. You keep waiting for your child to grow out of it…but they haven’t. They’re still throwing fits, and you’re still feeling worn out, trying to figure out how to help them learn emotional regulation. Helping your family learn emotional regulation doesn’t need to feel so impossible. Empower yourself to confidently help your child & learn to better handle their big emotions.”
A favorite: Check out her podcast! You can find it here:
“The Enlightening Motherhood Podcast, with Emily Hamblin & Ashley Schultz”
https://open.spotify.com/show/2Db60ACeHON2IeIIG6Zy1z?si=b5a31f15da9a4a6c
Mary Sheedy Kurcinka, Ed.D
“Spirited children arrive in this world genetically wired to be highly alert and intense. It is not your imagination that your child’s shrieks are more piercing or that you are working harder. Raising a spirited child does take more time, skill, and perseverance – and I would say, more knowledge – and yet almost no one talks about it. This is despite the fact that every year 20 to 25 percent of babies born are spirited. It has been my life’s work and passion to support and help families of spirited children.”
A favorite: Mary’s book, Raising Your Spirited Child was one of the first I read. Now I get her inbox emails, and they are FULL of great advice!
Find the book here:
Good Inside
“Join clinical psychologist and mom of three Dr. Becky Kennedy on her weekly podcast, as she takes on tough parenting questions and delivers actionable guidance—all in short episodes, because we know time is hard to find as a parent. Her breakthrough approach has enabled thousands of people to get more comfortable in discomfort, make repairs after mistakes, and always see the good inside. You’ll gain the tools to embody your authority while developing a stronger parent-child connection, helping you become the parent you want to be and helping your child develop the skills necessary for life success.”
A favorite episode: “Compassion Isn’t Dangerous”
https://open.spotify.com/episode/348hBZevQBJILrbE2nrYmI?si=noeHsJPiTpCUQMb_z9IYAA
Dr. Becky is also worth an Instagram follow, and has a book!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbeckyatgoodinside
Book: https://a.co/d/dY8S5Xf
Prematurity/Maternal Health
March of Dimes
March of Dimes believes in a world where every mom and baby is healthy regardless of wealth, race, gender or geography. The U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for families of color. Through research, programs and advocacy, our supporters enable us to be there for parents throughout their pregnancies.”
A favorite: Check out the NICU Family Support Resources here – (https://www.marchofdimes.org/our-work/nicu-family-support).
You can also see whether there is a March for Babies Walk in your area. Our family has participated multiple times. It’s a great way to have fun, support an incredible cause, and celebrate your little fighter(s)!
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Alliance
“Cerebral Palsy Alliance is a ground-breaking, global centre of expertise for cerebral palsy services and support, research, technology and innovation, and advocacy. Our alliance of great minds work together to deliver a world of opportunity for people with cerebral palsy and similar disabilities, and their families.”
A favorite: Celebrate World CP Day! You can find the information here:
I also love that you can look up services/support geared toward your child’s age group. This site is overflowing with great information
Screen Time
Boston Children’s Digital Wellness Lab
“At the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, we seek to understand and promote positive and healthy digital media experiences for young people, from birth through young adulthood.”
A favorite: Family Digital Wellness Guides – explore the latest research, best practices, and age-specific resources for your child! (https://digitalwellnesslab.org/family-digital-wellness-guide/
TechnoSapiens (Jacqueline Nesi, Ph D.)
“Techno Sapiens is a newsletter about technology and the people who use it. You’ll find a range of ideas and stories, both personal and academic. The latest research on social media, including results from my own studies. The things I’m finding to be interesting, concerning, or inspiring. My experiences as a psychologist working with teens and navigating academia. My experiences as a person in the world and mom of a tiny human. And my thoughts on how to make sense of the complicated and exciting digital world in which we find ourselves.”
A favorite: Subscribe for updates right to your inbox! I’ve never subscribed to the Substack, but there’s always the option to dig in even more if you love it!
ScreenStrong
“ScreenStrong empowers families to prevent screen addiction and reclaim their kids from problematic screen use (social media, video games, and pornography). Our solutions are not screen-free; rather they replace toxic screen use with healthy activities, life skill development, and family connections.”
A few favorites:
Resource page for families – https://screenstrong.org/resources/
Phone-Free Schools – https://screenstrong.org/schools/
Books:
The Screen-Strong Solution – https://amzn.to/4arOFly
Can Your Teen Thrive – and Survive – Without a SmartPhone? – https://amzn.to/4aysj1K
Will Your Gamer Survive College? – https://amzn.to/4aBBw9P
Safety Checklist
CyberFareedah
“As a teen, unbeknown to my parents, I connected with a predator online who portrayed himself as a trustworthy friend. And I was seconds away from running away from home when, at the last minute, I decided to confide in my mom. The conversation she and I had that day changed my life forever and inspired the work I do today.
Inspired by my own experiences, I developed the SAFE Method—a unique approach to teaching internet safety that emphasizes the need for creating safe spaces between parent and child as the cornerstone of protecting kids online.
I have a professional background in cybersecurity and threat intelligence. And I’ve had the honor of sharing my insights with companies like Mozilla, H&M, FedEx, Common Sense Networks, Love146, and NASA. My work has also been featured in Cisco, CNN, The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, NASDAQ, FOX 46, NBC4, Yahoo! and more.”
A favorite: Her free resource library is a HUGE help to any parent navigating the deep waters of gaming and all things tech!
https://sekuva.mykajabi.com/get-your-internet-safety-resource-library
Make a Difference
Caring Across Generations
“Caring Across Generations is a national organization of family caregivers, care workers, disabled people, and aging adults working to transform the way we care in this country. We envision a world in which care in this country is accessible, affordable, and equitable – so that everyone can live, work, and age with dignity.”
A favorite: Check out their “Narrative and Culture Change” page!