Child Psych Podcast Episode #180

Jon Fogel is a parenting educator, speaker, and author of Punishment-Free Parenting, with a new children’s book, Set My Feelings Free. Known for breaking down the neuroscience of parenting into practical, easy-to-use strategies, Jon helps parents combine connection-based parenting with clear leadership and structure. Through his platform, The Whole Parent, and his podcast, he shares research-informed tools that support emotional regulation and healthy child development.

Introduction to the Conversation

Big feelings are a natural part of childhood—but when they show up as meltdowns, defiance, or overwhelming behaviors, many parents feel stuck, unsure how to respond. In this conversation, Jon Fogel and Tammy Schamuhn explore what’s really happening in a child’s brain during these moments and why traditional discipline strategies often fall short.

This episode reframes challenging behavior through a neuroscience and attachment lens, helping parents understand that emotional regulation is not about control—it’s about connection, co-regulation, and skill-building.

What We Discuss in This Episode

This episode dives into how children experience emotions at a neurological level and why they often lack the ability to regulate those feelings independently. Jon explains that children’s brains are wired to experience emotions intensely, but without the mature coping strategies adults rely on.

The conversation highlights the power of play-based regulation tools—simple, engaging strategies that activate different parts of the brain to help children calm down. From sensory-based activities to visualization and movement, these tools support emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and build long-term resilience.

Parents will also learn why one-size-fits-all strategies don’t work and how to adapt approaches based on a child’s unique sensory profile, temperament, and developmental stage.

What You’ll Learn

• Why big emotions often lead to big behaviors in children
• How the brain’s emotional and survival systems influence child behavior
• Simple play-based tools to support emotional regulation in the moment
• Why sensory input (movement, touch, music) is key to calming the nervous system
• How to tailor strategies based on your child’s unique needs and temperament

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is ideal for parents, caregivers, educators, and mental health professionals who support children navigating big emotions, anxiety, or behavioral challenges. Whether you’re raising a highly sensitive child, working with children in a classroom, or simply looking for more effective parenting tools, this conversation offers practical, research-backed strategies you can use right away.