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Parent to Parent: Real Life TIps to Raise Resilient Kids, is a podcast from Communities that Care of Greater Downingtown. Every other week Chrissie and Bethann will meet with experts and other parents to discuss topics related to raising healthy kids--everything from drug and alcohol use to mental health to supporting independence. Each episode will give listeners concrete, hands-on tips that parents can use in their homes with their families right away. Hosts Chrissie Dziembowski and Dr. Bethann Cinelli have a combined 40+ years experience working in health education with youth, parents, schools and communities. Thank you for joining us! Communities that Care has a Parent2Parent Blog and many online resources and webinars. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC Twitter @DowningtownCTC YouTube LinkedIn We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie Dziembowski with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org
Episodes
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Sports are a surefire way to keep kids out of trouble and less likely to use substances, right? Well, we learned the answer is yes… and sometimes also no. What makes students great athletes also places them at greater risk of substance use. We are so happy to welcome Tina George from Caron Treatment Centers to talk with us about student athletes and how participation in sports (and other high achievement focused activities) can be both a protective AND risk factor. Tina shares what substances students are most likely to use, including caffeine and supplements, and the impact it can have on performance. She also gives guidance on how to tackle (pun intended) a “work hard, play hard” and “look the other way” team or coaching culture to keep your kid safe. We also discuss what parents CAN do to support their athlete to be well as they balance not only their sport, but also school and just being a kid growing up. Join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Tina was featured presenting this topic in our Oct. 2023 Parent Speaker Series Webinar–watch here.
Tina advised to look for a seal from NSF Certified for Sports to make sure anything your child is taking is safe.
You can reach Tina at tgeorge@caron.org and learn more about Caron and their education programs and resources. Tina also has a podcast “Conversations that Matter” discussing behavioral health strategies for building resilience.
Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we’ll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
As parents we can’t help but want better for our kids and wonder, “How can I make this path different for them?” Today we are speaking with Dan Brady, CTC Board President and Downingtown parent of three. Dan shares with us why prevention work is so important and how these are the things we need to do when we feel good and before we feel the need to “panic parent”. Dan and Chrissie discuss their own experience with alcohol use, how there is a lot of gray area in substance use disorder, and how our own use and family history influences how we parent. Lastly we talk about how important positive points of contact with youth and parents are to better our community. Join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
We mentioned our podcast episode with Cynthia
We reference the PAYS alcohol statistics and norms students reported
Chrissie wrote a blog post about quitting drinking alcohol
We talked about how early kids use alcohol. 1 in 3 kids have tried alcohol by age 8, and 2 in 3 by age 12.
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Tech management has become a role that all parents have had to take on these days with phones, tablets, ipads, chromebooks and more. It is the number one topic that parents share they want help and support with and we are lucky to speak with expert Sarah Kimmel, founder and owner of Family Tech. Our goal for this conversation was to learn about parental controls and the best way to introduce technology… and unintentionally became a coaching session for Chrissie as the tech use in her family got away from her this past summer. We discuss all of Chrissie’s tech fails and how to get back on track–Roblox and PCs and Discord, oh my! Sarah also shares how to set limits around screen time, the magic of turning off the internet (and how to do it so YOU still have internet), and a sensible order to introduce tech devices to your kids leading up to their own phone in the end. Sarah’s outlook on how to invite tech into your home and manage it with your kids is balanced and approachable–and Chrissie vows to do everything she says. Join us!
PS–There will be an episode coming up where Chrissie shares what happened when she followed Sarah’s advice and reeled in the tech use in her house with her kids. Keep an eye out for this episode coming soon!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Sarah spoke with author Kristen Jenson about how to talk to your kids about pornography
They discussed that most kids will be exposed to porn online and recommends Kristen’s book Good Pictures, Bad Pictures to help prepare your kids for images that may come up
Tech contract is available from Sarah if you sign up for her newsletter–it is on the right side of screen
Sarah Kimmel is a family tech expert and digital parenting coach and is the founder of Family Tech, LLC, a company to help families understand and manage the technology and devices in their homes. Family Tech includes a blog, podcast, in-home tech support and live classes or events. Her YouTube videos are super helpful too!
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
Today we are learning how to find joy in the chaos, including refilling our EXTRA–which our guest Rosey Celommi will explain what this EXTRA is and how we all need to care for it. Rosey is an educator of over 25 years and she previously taught and worked in Chester County. In the past few years Rosey has been on a mission to help educators care for themselves to deal with and prevent burnout. Just about all of these principles apply to parents too! Rosey shares ways to figure out what brings you joy and how to nurture it, how to integrate a mindfulness and gratitude practice into your day, and how to create joy in the chaos of our busy lives. Join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Chrissie mentioned a previous blog post
Rosey mentioned Jon Kabat-Zinn as a leader of mindfulness and the developer of mindfulness based stress reduction
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Aug 22, 2023
Tuesday Aug 22, 2023
Learn where to get help this coming school year.
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"Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” (Gotta love Mr. Rogers!) Today we are speaking with two of Downingtown Area School District’s (DASD) biggest helpers, Sarah Brooks, Lead Student Assistance Specialist, and Mary Wallin, K-12 Department Leader for School Counselors. Sarah and Mary are sharing with us the roles of Prevention Specialists and School Counselors, as well as other district staff they may work with to support a student and family. We learn the trends they are seeing in school right now, both positives and challenges and how to access local resources. Sarah and Mary also give us the steps on how to handle common struggles including: how to help your child who may be ok in school but is emotionally and behaviorally different at home, what to do if your child doesn’t want to attend school, and how to work with the school team if your child will be missing school for a prolonged period of time. This conversation truly shows the team approach taken at DASD and how parents can best communicate with their school-based supports. Join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Prevention Specialist Staff at DASD
Mental Health Services at DASD
Psychology Today has a search tool to find providers near you that do and do not take insurance.
CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Aug 08, 2023
Tuesday Aug 08, 2023
We are at the point of the summer when we may have hit screen overload. Listen for tips to find balance!
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How does technology affect kids' behavior and developing brains? Dr. Stephanie Diez-Morel from Reboot and Recover returns to talk about her research on how persuasive technology is impacting kids' language, beliefs, and attitudes. She explains how social media and games are using tactics to tap into kids' innate human hardwiring to make this tech so compelling. She also discusses the impact of artificial intelligence and how it is shaping our kids' beliefs around why we use the internet, including creating a need for external validation and the risk of being exposed to online toxicity. Dr. Diez-Morel shares strategies parents can use to support their kids to consume more nourishing content online and explains using the 4 C’s when choosing content and games. This conversation also includes some venting from Chrissie on the stress and exhaustion of managing all the tech! Lots of great tips shared, join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Our first Episode with Dr. Diez-Morel about tech and screens
Create a Family Media Plan for your family’s tech use.
Dr. Diez-Morel talked about the passage of the CAMRA Act to fund research of tech’s impact on children's health and development.
Dr. Diez-Morel’s 4 C’s: Connection, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Context
Check out other resources listed on Reboot and Recover’s Resource Page.
Reboot and Recover’s mission is to provide solutions for balanced living in a technology driven world. We offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families struggling with any issues related to technology overuse and addiction. The treatment is provided by licensed and practicing professionals in a confidential and caring capacity. Follow Reboot and Recover on:
CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
This relatable conversation is one for parents with kids of all ages.
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Do all kids drink alcohol before they graduate high school? Is this a thing? Today we are breaking down the youth and parent perceptions and norms around underage drinking with Beth Bruton from Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems. We discuss all the surrounding variables that influence youth’s perception of alcohol including social media, peer influence, and family modeling. We also talk about how although some parents may serve alcohol to their kids with best intentions of teaching them to be responsible, studies show that kids that are given alcohol at home underage are more likely to drink more often and larger amounts–but most parents don’t know this–we don’t know what we don’t know. Beth gave great tips on ways to talk to your kids about underage drinking and how to set up strategies to give your kids an out if they are in a risky situation. She also provided ways to talk to other parents that may or may not know the risks of underage drinking and how to share this information. We loved this conversation with Beth and hope you will join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
We referenced data from the PAYS 2021 Report
CTC PAYS Data on Alcohol Infographic
We mentioned a previous episode with Carl Gregory explaining the importance of unconditional love
We mentioned a previous episode with Corporal Gathercole from Upper Uwchlan Police Dept.
Chrissie mentioned Jessica Lahey and her Instagram Reels series with main points from her book The Addiction Inoculation
Holcomb has implemented MADD’s Power of Parents initiative which has many great resources for parents to talk to their kids about underage drinking
Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems is a leader in providing services and supports for people with mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities. The Chester County Holcomb Prevention department is located at the Holcomb corporate office in Exton, PA. Beth Bruton is the Prevention Manager and you can email her with any questions or comments at elizabeth.bruton@chimes.org
CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!
Join us at our Second Annual Snowball Shuffle 5k Run/1 Mile Walk on March 4th at Eagleview Town Center at 9am.
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Wednesday Jul 12, 2023
Wednesday Jul 12, 2023
This powerful, personal story is a must-listen!
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We are starting off the new year with a personal parent story and this one really moved Chrissie and Bethann–the first to bring tears into the conversation. Our friend and CTC Board President. Carl Gregory, joined us to share about his family’s journey with substance use disorder and the loss of his daughter. Carl talks about how he was once a person who felt “these things don’t happen to us” to someone who now speaks openly about his experience to support other parents and families. We discuss how a child’s peers and friend groups can make an impact, how substance use disorder is a disease and not a moral issue, and the importance of connection. Carl’s sense of equanimity during this conversation impacted Chrissie and Bethann in an unexpected way and we have a feeling you will feel the same. We are so grateful to Carl for sharing. Join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Carl mentioned the 3 C’s from Alanon
We talked about the benefits of hearing other parents stories and how important peer parent support is. CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!
Another resource is Parent Partnership group meetings coordinated by CTC partner Be A Part of the Conversation. Learn more about the Parent Partnership groups!
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Jun 27, 2023
Tuesday Jun 27, 2023
June is Pride month so we are sharing our episode with Aubrey and Bethann on how to support transgender youth. Happy Pride!
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There is all the love for this special episode today! Chrissie is interviewing Bethann and her daughter Aubrey, who is transgender, about their journey to becoming their truest selves. In our conversation, we discussed: advice for parents who may have kids who are wanting to change their pronouns and/or questioning their identity, how to have grace and compassion with each other, and the value of letting go of control and expectations. Look to the show notes below for best practice resources for parents and to learn more about supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. We know that LGBTQIA+ youth and adults are at a greater risk of substance use and misuse, mental health challenges, and suicide risk, all the more reason for education and support for this community. This honest and loving conversation provides support, encouragement and awareness for both parents and youth. Join us!
*Please note we are not medical professionals though we do discuss medical interventions in this episode. Please seek out medical guidance from your pediatrician and/or healthcare providers.
Things we mentioned during our conversation:
Chrissie gave statistics from NAMI at the beginning of the episode about mental health and substance use rates among LGBTQIA+ youth and adults.
Resources:
PFLAG provides confidential peer support, education, and advocacy to LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies.
AMAZE.org creates free educational videos + resources to help families talk openly, honestly, and less awkwardly about sex, health, relationships + growing up. They have great resources on gender identity and sexual orientation.
CHOP Gender and Sexuality Development Program The Gender and Sexuality Development Program offers psychosocial and medical support for gender nonconforming, gender expansive and transgender children and youth up to age 21 and their families.
GLSEN works to ensure that LGBTQ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment. Together we can transform our nation's schools into the safe and affirming environment all youth deserve.
Sign up for CTC’s First Annual Snowball Shuffle Family 5k Run & 1 Mile Walk
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources and webinars. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.
Tuesday Jun 13, 2023
Tuesday Jun 13, 2023
We did it! Chrissie and Bethann gave up social media for 3 days–and we are talking about how it went! We share our reflections on this experience and how we chose to return to socials…if at all. Spoiler alert: 10/10 recommend taking a break! We also share our plan for the pod for over the summer. Join us!
Things we mentioned in this episode:
Listen to our Episode 34 with Aria that inspired us to take a break!
Chrissie mentioned the book How to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Price
Chrissie mentioned an episode from the What Fresh Hell Podcast about technology dependency
Chrissie mentioned persuasive technology from Episode 33: Tech and Gaming Effects on Kids Behavior
Our first Episode with Dr. Diez-Morel about tech and screens
You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!
Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!:
Instagram @downingtownctc
Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC
Twitter @DowningtownCTC
Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.
Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.