In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen, a pediatrician and parenting expert, addresses what parents can do when they dislike their child’s friends. She offers age-specific strategies for preschoolers through teenagers, focusing on teaching kids to recognize healthy friendships, set boundaries, and handle peer pressure. Kristen also discusses how to support teens in romantic relationships, including recognizing signs of unhealthy or abusive dynamics. Throughout, she emphasizes open communication, modeling values, and empowering children to make wise choices, rather than banning friendships outright. The episode aims to help parents raise confident, self-aware kids with strong relationship skills.
What you'll learn:
- Challenges parents face regarding their child's friendships
- Strategies for handling friendships across different age groups (preschoolers, early school-age, late school-age, teenagers)
- Importance of teaching children about healthy friendships and setting boundaries
- Techniques for addressing peer pressure without banning friendships
- Guidance on recognizing and navigating teenage romantic relationships
- Signs of unhealthy or abusive relationships in teenagers
- The role of parents in supporting children through social dynamics
- Emphasizing the development of self-worth and emotional intelligence in children
- Encouraging open communication between parents and children
- Building a foundation for healthy relationships and conflict resolution skills
Podcast Disclaimer
The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.
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