Episode 238: Practical Strategies for Parents to Handle Big Feelings in Kids and Themselves with Dr. Kahlila Robinson and Sarah Gerstenzang

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Parenting isn’t easy—especially when your child is having a meltdown and your own emotions are on the verge of boiling over. This week on The Balanced Parent Podcast, we’re talking about exactly that: the ups, downs, and messy middle of navigating big feelings—for both kids and parents.

Joining me for this heartfelt conversation are Dr. Kahlila Robinson, a clinical psychologist and Sarah Gerstenzang, a licensed clinical social worker. Together, they co-authored The Self-Regulation Workbook for Children Ages 5 to 8, a wonderful workbook that helps parents and kids learn emotional regulation side by side.

Here are the key takeaways:

  • Parents can embrace their own big feelings with self-compassion to model healthy self-regulation.

  • Embracing all emotions fosters authenticity, connection, and stronger relationships with children.

  • Self-awareness and reflection help parents recognize their emotional states and improve regulation skills.

  • Practicing self-repair allows parents to respond compassionately and steadily to their children.

  • The Self-Regulation Workbook for Children Ages 5–8 provides practical guidance for parent-led emotional growth.

  • Gentle, story-based, and pressure-free conversations help children reflect on and navigate big feelings.

Resources:

If you’d like more guidance on supporting your child’s emotional growth and self-regulation, visit Kahlila Robinson at kahlilarobinsonphd.com, Sarah Gerstenzang at sarahgerstenzang.com.

This conversation is full of empathy, practical tools, and gentle reminders that you don’t have to be perfect to be a great parent. You just have to keep showing up—with curiosity, compassion, and care.

Remember, your calm, compassionate presence teaches your child how to navigate big feelings—self-regulation starts with you.