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July 16, 2025 57 mins

This week, Samantha and Krista dive into the emotional rollercoaster of parenting in the summer months—from the simple joys of family outings to the more complicated lessons that come with children’s big feelings (and their own).

They share personal stories about navigating grief and loss, reflect on how modelling behaviour teaches children about boundaries, and discuss the balance between assertiveness and kindness—both in parenting and in life. Humour weaves through the heavier moments, reminding us that laughter can be a real coping mechanism when parenting feels intense.

This episode also explores the value of direct conversations, why vulnerability is a strength in motherhood, and how the hardest life lessons often leave the deepest imprint—for both parents and kids.


Takeaways & Merit Badges Earned:

🌞 Summer amplifies both the fun and the friction in family life.

🧠 Children’s emotions are layered—patience is the real superpower.

💬 Vulnerability and open communication strengthen relationships.

🪞 Children learn boundaries by watching us set and hold our own.

🎭 Humour helps lighten heavy parenting moments.

⚖️ Assertiveness doesn’t cancel kindness—it balances it.

💔 Navigating grief is part of life and part of parenting.

🗣️ Direct conversations prevent confusion and build trust.

🧩 The hardest lessons often become the most meaningful.

🤝 Preparing kids for social interactions starts with modelling it yourself.


Parenting in the thick of summer and feeling all the emotions? You’re not alone.

💌 Follow us on Instagram @MamaMeritBadge

⭐️ If this one resonated, leave a review or share it with a friend who’s navigating the same messy, beautiful season.


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