I was delighted to talk with Dr. Robbin Rockett, a licensed clinical psychologist, who created a podcast series offering targeted support for Moms and Dads who are parenting on their own called Solo Parenting Life. Dr. Rockett is raising three young children on her own and wanted to help others in a similar position. From dating, finances, stress management, parenting, and co-parenting, Dr. Rockett talks with experts, therapists, and authors to offer guidance. I talked with her about parenting with social and emotional intelligence. In our conversation, I recalled my own big feelings that arose as my toddler son lashed out and how I learned to step back, reflect, and plan for emotionally intelligent responses when challenged. We also talked about challenges through various ages and stages and Dr. Rockett shared some of her own parenting challenges and solutions. I hope you’ll join us for this enriching conversation!

Here’s Dr. Rockett’s introduction to our conversation:

One of the biggest fears many parents face is the fear that we are not preparing our kids for the “Real World.” Life skills are difficult to teach, but they are so important for our children to be successful. The official name for this vital skillset is “Social Emotional Intelligence,” or the ability to navigate social problems with empathy and self-respect. I am excited to begin to dive into this topic with Jennifer Miller today. Jennifer is the founder of Confident Parents, Confident Kids, an online compendium of resources all about parenting children with a high Social Emotional Intelligence. She is quite the expert on the topic, and today she will share practical examples as well as encouraging stories showcasing exactly why we should be prioritizing Social Emotional Intelligence in our parenting.

After realizing there really was not a simple, research-based resource for parents on Social Emotional Intelligence, Jennifer set out to create one. She used her own personal struggles as well as her informed perspectives to write articles and offer up tips for parents. When her son was very young, Jennifer noticed she had quite an emotional response to his misbehaviors. Rather than being content with these feelings and challenges, Jennifer armed herself with knowledge and changed her parenting to model and reflect Social Emotional Intelligence. I think Jennifer’s approach is admirable, and I know you will be encouraged by her stories. Rather than hiding the struggle, Jennifer embraces the process of slowly developing the skills that will set her son up for an incredible future.

You do not have to be ruled by the fear of failing your children. Thanks to Jennifer, you have resources at your disposal to help you develop Social Emotional Intelligence with your kiddos.

Listen to the podcast here and explore Dr. Rockett’s site and other podcasts too! 

Much thanks to Dr. Robbin Rockett for this opportunity!