Helping Families Be Happy

Literary Liberties: Balancing Freedom to Read and Parental Concerns with Sarah Smith

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Sarah Smith; a distinguished district librarian from California's Central Valley about books and the current book banning trend within the United States. 

 

Having served as a high school librarian and English teacher, Sarah's passion now extends to professionally reviewing manga and graphic novels for esteemed publications like Booklist and School Library Journal. she has penned articles for California English and Diamond Bookshelf, enhancing our understanding of the written word. Her voice has enriched podcasts such as School Librarians United and The Literacy Advocate, and her expertise has been showcased at conferences hosted by the American Library Association and the School Library Journal Summit.

 

Episode Highlights:

• 01:58 Christopher opens the dialogue with a reflection on the current state of book banning and censorship in the United States, emphasizing its unprecedented scale and acknowledges the need to balance the protection of our right to read with parental concerns over potentially objectionable content.
• 02:34 Statistics reveal a significant rise in challenged titles in libraries, with a shift towards collective challenges on multiple books rather than individual titles.
• 04:22 Sarah describes the issue of book banning as a significant element in a wider cultural conflict, particularly as a means to challenge public education. She notes that the pandemic, by bringing school into the home, gave some parents a closer look at educational content, which has spurred a pushback against certain materials.
• 05:27 Sarah reveals a startling statistic from a recent study showing that a majority of the book challenges can be traced back to a relatively small number of individuals, suggesting the influence of a vocal minority rather than a widespread movement.
• 07:38 Christopher seeks Sarah’s insight on how parents can address concerns about content their children are exposed to in school libraries.
• 09:06 Sarah touches on regional differences in content appropriateness, particularly within California's diverse political landscape. She discusses the challenges librarians face in ensuring age-appropriate content and the reliance on various tools and resources to assist in book selection.
• 10:49 The goal of reconsiderations process is to approach concerns objectively and fairly, without succumbing to emotional or biased judgments, says Sarah.
• 11:56 Christopher clarifies the objective criteria in place for parents to submit concerns about content and the inclusive review process involving various community members.
• 13:19 Christopher discusses the variability of policies across districts and states, and the importance for parents to be informed about their school’s specific policies.
• 13:35 Sarah advises parents to check school board policies on their school's website, typically found under the instruction section, to understand the policy regarding book challenges.
• 14:26 Sarah emphasizes the importance of civility when parents address concerns with schools, suggesting that a polite approach is more effective.
• 16:34 Sarah introduces the idea of parents discussing content limitations directly with libraries, potentially preventing the need for book removals. She shares a personal anecdote about respecting a parent's request to restrict specific genres for their child and notes that this is a right parents have.
• 18:51 Christopher also discusses cultural literacy, encouraging exposure to a broad range of literature, music, and film to enrich children’s understanding of the human experience.
• 20:10 On constitutional aspect, Christopher questions how current cultural conflicts and legislation align with the freedom of speech and the freedom to read as guaranteed by the First Amendment.
• 21:27 Sara mentions guidance issued by the California District Attorney in June, reminding schools of their obligation to follow due process when considering the removal of books, underlining potential consequences for failing to do so.
• 22:46 Christopher inquiries about historical precedents for comic censorship, leading to a discussion on the Comics Code Authority established in response to accusations that comics were contributing to juvenile delinquency.
• 23:40 Sara explains the self-regulatory measures of the comics industry to avoid Congressional censorship and how the 1980s saw a shift with publishers choosing to ignore the Comics Code to produce content for mature audiences.
• 25:54 Sarah stresses the diligence that goes into selecting books for libraries, pointing out that professional reviews are a resource for librarians and can be a tool for parents as well. She mentions that professional reviews are available for parents to check if a book is age-appropriate and suggests that these resources can also guide parental choices.
• 28:16 Christopher discusses the importance of trade publications in the library collection development process and their availability on platforms like Amazon.

 

Key Points: 

1. Christopher and Sarah explore the concerning trend of book banning in the U.S., discussing the need to find a balance between protecting the freedom to read and addressing parental concerns over certain educational content.
2. Sarah offers insights on the book selection process in libraries, emphasizing the role of professional reviews and trade publications to ensure age-appropriateness, and suggests that direct communication between parents and libraries can pre-emptively address content concerns.
3. The conversation also addresses the constitutional implications of book banning, historical censorship in comics, and the importance of cultural literacy, underscoring the significance of due process and civility in the discourse around library content and book challenges.

 

Tweetable Quotes:

• "Unprecedented scale of book banning in the U.S. calls for a balance between our right to read and addressing parental content concerns." - Christopher Robbins
• "A vocal minority, not a widespread movement, often drives the rise in book challenges." - Sarah Smith
• "Civility and direct communication with libraries can address content concerns more effectively than book removals." - Sarah Smith
• "Cultural literacy is enriched by exposure to a broad range of literature, music, and film." - Christopher Robbins

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.graphiclibrary.org/about-me.html
• Podcast Editing

The Thankful Heart: Exploring Gratitude with Richard Eyre

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman will discuss the topic of "Attitude of Gratitude" with Richard Eyre, who is one-half of the renowned author duo, Richard and Linda Eyre.

 

With a writing career spanning four decades, the Eyers are New York Times #1 best-selling authors who have appeared on major national talk shows, including Oprah and Today. Their books, which emphasize family and relationships, have been translated into multiple languages and have garnered them opportunities to lecture in over fifty countries.

 

Episode Highlights

• 02:31: Richard mentions his experience writing for well-known publishers such as Simon and Schuster, Random House, McGraw Hill, Penguin, and Golden Books. He expresses personal dissatisfaction with the bureaucracy of some major publishers.
• 03:17: Richard expresses a desire for a publishing partner rather than just a publisher due to the inconsistent treatment they received based on the success of their books.
• 04:20: Richard provides a brief history of the book on gratitude, mentioning its original title as "The Thankful Heart" and describing it as a comprehensive exploration of the philosophy of gratitude.
• 04:51: Around 30 years ago, Richard's family started sending Thanksgiving cards instead of Christmas cards. Richard would write a poem about gratitude to be included in these cards.
• 05:44: Richard introduces a book called "Thankful Heart" which later was condensed into a gratitude journal called "Daily Thanks." The "Daily Thanks" gratitude journal has a section for each month, starting in November and each month has a different theme or focus for gratitude.
• 06:12: Richard shares a quote from the book which emphasizes that gratitude is essentially a form of happiness that we can control.
• 08:18: Richard speaks about the evolving nature of gratitude, and how the journal has different perspectives for each month. He shares his personal experience with the journal and describes how January in the journal is about becoming more aware of one's senses and writing about new sensations each day.
• 10:13: Richard stresses the importance of self-care, especially for mothers who tend to neglect their own well-being while taking care of others. He shares a personal anecdote about advising a stressed woman with young children to keep a gratitude journal.
• 12:16: Richard discusses the challenges of staying positive during tough times and the importance of gratitude in shedding a positive light on life. He emphasizes that even amidst challenging days, finding just one thing to be grateful for can shift the perspective to a more positive one.
• 13:21: Richard discusses the different approaches people take to gratitude journaling, mentioning that many choose to practice it at night, reflecting on their day. He shares the perspective of those who practice it in the morning to set a positive tone for the day.
• 14:59: Adina agrees with Richard's points, highlighting the challenge of finding a starting point and carving out time for gratitude in one's daily routine.
• 15:43: Richard talks about his experience of transitioning from sending Christmas cards to sending Thanksgiving cards and emphasizes the innate ability of children to express gratitude and how they can teach adults to be more appreciative.
• 17:09: Richard reflects on the beauty of late autumn in Park City, UT and shares a poem from the Gratitude Journal for the month of November. The poem beautifully captures the essence of gratitude and reflection during the autumn season, leading up to Thanksgiving.
• 18:25: Adina speaks about the importance of being mindful and grateful amidst daily responsibilities and highlights the idea of sharing and how it affects perspective.
• 20:13: Richard links gratitude to Christmas and explains a family tradition: giving gifts on Christmas Eve focuses on gratitude, while Christmas morning is about receiving from Santa Claus.
• 21:57: Christmas can be used as an opportunity to teach gratitude. Richard recounts how his family used to write thank-you letters to Santa Claus the day after Christmas.
• 22:42: Richard stresses the importance of gratitude. Suggests sitting down with children before gift-giving occasions to teach them the value of being grateful to make both the gift giver and the receiver feel happy.
• 24:43: Adina narrates an incident where they donated toys to an empty donation box, which was a special moment of realization and gratification for both the adults and the kids in her family.
• 25:24: Richard discusses the profound connection between gratitude and generosity, emphasizing that the two are inseparably linked and explores the contrast between gratitude and an entitlement attitude highlighting how developing gratitude in children naturally leads to developing generosity.

 

Key Points:

1. Richard Eyre emphasizes the "Attitude of Gratitude" through practices like sending Thanksgiving cards and gratitude journaling.
2. Richard believes gratitude is a controllable form of happiness and stresses its importance for well-being.
3. Richard highlights the connection between gratitude and generosity and suggests ways to nurture these values in children.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• "Gratitude is essentially a form of happiness that we can control." - Richard Eyre
• "Even amidst challenging days, finding just one thing to be grateful for can shift the perspective to a more positive one." - Richard Eyre
• "The profound connection between gratitude and generosity shows that developing gratitude in children naturally leads to developing generosity." - Richard Eyre
• "Amidst daily responsibilities, it's crucial to be mindful and grateful; it affects our entire perspective on life." - Adina Oberman

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://valuesparenting.com/
• Podcast Editing

 

Capturing Canine Joy: Holiday Photography Tips with Diana Lundin

Diana Lundin and Pets, 10/25/2023

 

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman, talks to Diana Lundin discussing holiday photography with your pets. Diana, who transitioned from a career as a TV producer, reporter, and website editor, rediscovered her passion for photography, particularly in the pet genre. She is the author of the popular gift book "Dog vs. Ice Cream," capturing the humorous expressions of over 400 dogs indulging in ice cream. Starting in 2014, Diana initiated ice cream socials for dogs, a delightful trend that gained traction in Los Angeles. Beyond conventional pet photos, Diana showcases her composite art talents on "The Secret World of Pets" website, where she places pets in imaginative, fantastical worlds.

 

Episode Highlights

• 02:32: Diana shares that it's not too difficult to include a dog in a family photo with a professional photographer. She emphasizes the importance of speed and timing, using noise to get the dog's attention, and making sure the family also focuses on the camera.
• 03:41: Diana mentions potential distractions and how to overcome them, including using a person behind the photographer to get the dog's attention. She also talks about the advantage of phone cameras with progression features to find the perfect frame in a sequence of shots.
• 04:30: Adina queries about the use of treats or props for photo sessions, mentioning her own food-motivated dog. She also discusses the importance of patience when photographing pets.
• 05:35: Diana describes her collection of various hunting calls like those of wild boar, rabbits, and owls. She demonstrates how she uses squeakers near her camera to grab the pet's attention briefly. If noise or toys don't work, she then resorts to using treats.
• 06:52: Diana mentions peanut butter as a fun treat to get amusing facial expressions from dogs, especially the "ice cream look".
• 07:58: Adina appreciates Diana's approach to understanding both the pet and the family during a photoshoot and discuss about holiday accessories and props for pets.
• 09:18: Adina and Diana showcase various holiday-themed props including reindeer ears, an elf hat, and a Hanukkah bow tie. Diana talks about the props she uses, including a red Buffalo and the importance of making sure pets are comfortable with the props.
• 11:03: Diana talks about collaborating with a then-upcoming ice cream truck for humans during the dog ice cream socials. She also describes the exciting atmosphere during the event, with people inviting their friends to join the fun at the pet store.
• 12:06: Diana talks about starting dog ice cream socials in her yard in 2014. She mentions a viral video about a dog named Cooper at McDonald's which inspired her. Diana finds it equally entertaining when dogs dislike the ice cream. Their expressions are human-like, showcasing a range of emotions.
• 14:23: Dogs' reactions to the ice cream vary from loving it to hating it, making for a comedic experience, says Diana. Owners enjoy seeing their pets in such a unique scenario, especially captured in professional photographs.
• 15:01: Diana talks about her aim to create dramatic photos that help in dog adoption. She expresses her passion to serve animal welfare and looks for collaborative projects.
• 17:21: Adina praises Diana's efforts in blending her passion for photography with her love for animals to serve a greater cause. Adina asks about recent highlights since her book "Dogs vs. Ice Cream".
• 19:26: Diana shares her experience of photographing dog and cat toys, creating still life with them, and the creative satisfaction it brought her. Diana also talks about dog toys that she photographs and mentions feedback from her mentor about color schemes.
• 20:33: Diana talks about her role as a judge in an international pet photography competition and expresses how much she learned from judging the competition and her gratitude for the experience.
• 21:58: Diana elaborates on the demanding process of critiquing and mentions that there were 2200 entries, each receiving two pieces of critique from the judges. She shares her approach to critiquing – offering a compliment, followed by constructive feedback, and then another compliment.
• 22:26: Adina points out the underappreciated intricacies of pet photography and compares the challenges of photographing pets to inanimate objects like fruit. She touches on the intricacies and challenges of pet photography, highlighting the difference between photographing animals vs. still objects.

3 Key Points

1. Diana stresses the importance of speed, timing, and using various distractions like noises, squeakers, and treats to capture the pet's attention. She also uses props to enhance photos and emphasizes ensuring the comfort of the pets while using them.
2. Diana initiated dog ice cream socials in 2014, inspired by a viral video. The events, where dogs react to ice cream, offer a mix of humorous and human-like expressions captured in professional photographs, adding a comedic touch to her portfolio.
3. Beyond just photography, Diana's passion also aligns with animal welfare. She aims to create dramatic photos to aid dog adoption and has also been involved in judging international pet photography competitions, offering constructive feedback to participants.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• "It's not too difficult to include a dog in a family photo with a professional photographer." - Diana Lundin
• "Dogs' reactions to the ice cream vary from loving it to hating it, making for a comedic experience." - Diana Lundin
• "Diana's aim is to create dramatic photos that help in dog adoption, blending her passion for photography with love for animals to serve a greater cause."
• "The underappreciated intricacies of pet photography highlight the difference between photographing animals vs. still objects." - Adina Oberman

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.dianalundin.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/dlundin/
• Podcast Editing

Feasting without Fuss: Hanukkah Hosting Hacks with Jason Goldstein

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman, talks to Jason Goldstein about Hanukkah and holiday hosting. Jason Goldstein is a chiropractor by day and a food Blogger by night for his culinary blog, shop Happy. Jason shares his love of easy comfort food recipes, showcasing rich flavors, inventive ideas, and unique cooking tips and advice. He was a finalist on the next Food Network Star season 14 and finished in the top ten in Rachel Raye's cookbook contest. His recipes have been featured on The Chew and the Kitchen, and he has appeared on Good Morning America living in New York City in Hamptons. Jason enjoys testing recipes on his husband Tom's and grabbing French fries by the handful.

 

Episode Highlights

• 01:46 Jason emphasizes the importance of minimizing effort in holiday hosting. He recommends a combination of homemade and store-bought appetizers. He shares his love for puff pastry appetizers, highlighting how they can be prepared a day ahead for convenience.
• 02:39 For the main meal, Jason suggests making it yourself but delegating the responsibility of bringing wine and desserts to guests. This not only shares the load but also helps cut down on expenses and dishwashing.
• 03:47 Jason's second favorite dish for Hanukkah is brisket made in a slow cooker. This method not only saves oven space but also simplifies the cooking process. The brisket simmers all day, resulting in a tender and delicious main dish that seems effort-intensive but is easy to prepare.
• 04:29 Jason declares himself to be on team applesauce but acknowledges the strong divide between sour cream and applesauce enthusiasts. He emphasizes the importance of having both condiments available at the table.
• 04:50 Adina expresses appreciation for the idea of making a sheet pan potato latka instead of individual ones. She comments on the tediousness of shredding potatoes and onions for preparation.
• 05:18 Jason touches upon dietary preferences, recommending vegan cheese for those following stricter dietary laws. He talks about the simplicity of the dish using shredded potatoes, grated onion, and cheese, emphasizing the ease of preparation and baking.
• 07:21 Jason describes the brisket's final texture as melt-in-the-mouth, resulting from slow cooking that breaks down the fat and connective tissues. Jason fondly mentions that brisket pairs perfectly with potato pancakes.
• 08:00 Jason explains the traditional significance of frying foods during Hanukkah, referencing the eight days the oil miraculously burned.
• 09:33 Adina appreciates Jason's ideas and highlights how Hanukkah is a fun holiday, especially for kids. She asks if he uses a deep fryer for the frying process.
• 09:44: Jason confirms that one can use a deep fryer or simply a pan filled with oil. He also gives a tip to avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as it can reduce the oil's temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
• 11:29 Jason shares a personal anecdote from his wedding where he had a large table dedicated to various versions of "pigs in a blanket" — underscoring his love for the dish and its significance to him.
• 12:17 Adina talks about attending a party where the pigs in a blanket had everything bagel seasoning on the puff pastry, adding a unique flavor.
• 14:10 Jason emphasizes the importance of being a part of the party and not getting too stressed out. Advises sticking to familiar recipes and prepping in advance. He also recommends having a variety of dishes like salmon for those who don't eat beef. Mentions the idea of a sheet pan salmon.
• 15:21 Jason suggests that if you're not into cooking, make one dish and have others bring dishes. Recommends people bring dishes from their childhood for a touch of nostalgia.
• 16:02 Adina talks about the comfort guests feel with familiar flavors and the importance of childhood flavors during the holidays.

3 Key Points

1. Jason Goldstein emphasizes the importance of minimizing effort in holiday hosting. He shares his love for puff pastry appetizers, highlighting how they can be prepared a day ahead.
2. Jason recommends brisket made in a slow cooker for Hanukkah. The method simplifies the cooking process, resulting in a tender dish.
3. Jason touches upon dietary preferences, recommending vegan cheese. He explains the dish's simplicity using shredded potatoes, grated onion, and cheese.

Tweetable Quotes

• "Minimize holiday hosting effort with a mix of homemade and store-bought appetizers. Puff pastry delights can be prepped a day ahead!" - Jason 
• "For a melt-in-the-mouth Hanukkah delight, try brisket in a slow cooker. Effortless yet tastes like hours in the kitchen!" - Jason 
• "Whether you're #TeamApplesauce or #TeamSourCream, ensure both are at the Hanukkah table. Harmony in condiments, harmony in life!" - Jason 
• "Not into cooking? No worries. Host with one dish and let guests bring nostalgic flavors from their childhood. A holiday feast everyone cherishes!" - Jason 

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• Podcast Editing

Cooking up Connection: Holiday Meal Strategies for a Happier Family with Bri DeRosa

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Bri DeRosa about books, particularly what to do for holiday meals and those recipes that we want to make and how to have that be a wonderful experience. 

 

DeRosa is a freelance writer and communications consultant with expertise in creative and dramatic writing, arts education, and service learning. Bri has over a decade of experience in program development for non-profits and small businesses and has been the content manager at the Family Dinner Project since 2014. Additionally, Bri has contributed to three cookbooks and actively engages in family dinner practices with her husband and two teenage sons.

 

Episode Highlights: 

• 02:02 DeRosa explains that the Family Dinner Project is a non-profit program under Massachusetts General Hospital Psychiatry, highlighting the benefits of family meals and noting the gap between potential benefits and actual family meal practices.
• 03:07 As the holidays approach, Christopher discusses the stress associated with traditional family gatherings and queries about alternatives to meeting at a grandparent's house.
• 05:37 DeRosa points out that research suggests the quality of interaction at family meals is more important than frequency and shares tips on how to make holiday gatherings more meaningful and stress-free.
• 06:58 DeRosa encourages sharing the stories behind traditional dishes to create a richer family experience and suggests activities like a family photo caption contest and storytelling prompts to engage everyone and make the holiday special.
• 07:51 Christopher introduces the concept of an heirloom dinner, encouraging the exploration of family stories and histories related to traditional foods. He also introduces the topic of handling difficult conversations at dinner, such as politics or religion, that can create division.
• 09:08 DeRosa continues to offer creative ideas for family engagement, like drawing family trees on paper tablecloths and playing trivia games to learn about each other in a fun setting.
• 10:52 DeRosa mentions the idea of a 'politics jar' where individuals can contribute a quarter each time they mention a hot-button topic, encouraging redirection to other conversations.
• 11:27 DeRosa provides solutions for surprise tensions at the dinner table, such as taking breaks, focusing on gratitude, and steering conversations towards positive subjects. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining boundaries and redirecting negative discussions.
• 13:28 DeRosa advises coordinating with hosts to create a quiet, safe space for neurodivergent children and to establish clear expectations for both the child and other family members regarding food and seating arrangements.
• 15:10 Setting expectations with the neurodivergent child is also stressed, says DeRosa. She suggests bringing familiar foods for the neurodivergent child to avoid pressure and make them feel at ease during meals.
• 15:57 Christopher talks about the challenges of having children with soy allergies and the importance of being aware of dietary restrictions during family gatherings.
• 16:22 DeRosa shares that she may host a varying number of guests and talks about the family tradition of making a New York-style crumb cake and stuffing with a special ingredient from her mother and grandmother.
• 17:53 Christopher describes his Thanksgiving routine of brining a turkey and making garlic raspberry mashed potatoes with parmesan, a fresh garden salad with avocados and blue cheese, and fresh rolls with homemade jam.
• 18:55 DeRosa discusses her Thanksgiving menu, noting adaptations for a neurodivergent family member, like garlic mashed potatoes without Parmesan and a kale salad with dates and pumpkin seeds.

 

Key Points:

1. DeRosa underlines the value of family meals for various aspects of well-being and identifies the disconnect between the potential benefits and the reality of family dining habits.
2. Strategies for inclusive and stress-free holiday gatherings are discussed, including managing sensitive topics and enhancing the experience through storytelling and family history exploration.
3. Practical advice is offered on how to accommodate neurodivergent family members at gatherings, such as setting clear expectations, providing safe spaces, and respecting dietary restrictions.

 

Tweetable quotes: 

• "Bridging the gap between the benefits of family meals and actual practices is key for healthier, happier families." - DeRosa
• "Holiday meals are about stories, not just recipes. Share the history behind the dishes to enrich your family experience." - DeRosa
• "For neurodivergent family members, comfort during meals comes from clear expectations and familiar foods." - DeRosa
• "Garlic mashed potatoes and a fresh garden salad with avocados and blue cheese - holiday cooking is as much about tradition as it is about taste." - Christopher

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://thefamilydinnerproject.org/
• Podcast Editing

 

Hosting Holidays with Heart: Tips from Maria Sansone

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Maria Sansone. She is a well-known broadcaster with a genuine and authentic approach to her work. She is currently the host of NBC 10 Boston's premier lifestyle show, "The Hub," and is also the host of the Edward R. Murrow award-winning "Mom to Mom with Maria Sansone" TV show and podcast. 

 

Episode Highlights

• 02.16: Christopher, expresses curiosity about Maria Sansone's Slam Dunk contest, sparking a conversation about her early achievements and broadcasting career.
• 2.30: Maria describes how she was a basketball enthusiast but was always the shortest person in the league. She also explains that the Slam Dunk contest she participated in wasn't standard because they lowered the rim to accommodate her 5-foot-1 height.
• 03.14: Maria describes her unique dunk, putting the ball between her legs, around her back, hanging on the rim, and running around the gym with her tongue out, which garnered a wild response from the crowd.
• 03.44: Maria explains that a local reporter from her hometown (Erie, PA) interviewed her after the event and was surprised at her knowledge of basketball, leading to her appearances on local news segments.
• 06.42: Maria expresses her satisfaction in knowing that her book is helping people simplify their dinner preparation and make it an enjoyable experience.
• 07.10: Christopher then transitions to discussing hosting for the holidays and asks Maria how to approach creating a simple menu for holiday gatherings without feeling stressed about the cooking.
• 08.06: Maria mentions that for Thanksgiving, the menu doesn't have to change dramatically each year. She recommends focusing on a few well-prepared sides so that everyone can enjoy all elements of the meal, including the turkey.
• 08.51: Maria encourages hosts to have a plan, write it down, and do their shopping ahead of time to alleviate the overwhelming aspects of hosting, allowing them to enjoy the holiday with their guests.
• 09.55: Christopher introduces the topic of involving guests in holiday preparations and questions whether it's acceptable to ask them for help.
• 11.02: Maria shares examples of tasks she delegates, such as dessert, children's activities, paper plates and napkins, and setting up cocktails. She believes that guests often want to help, so when they ask what they can bring, it's a great opportunity to give them specific tasks.
• 13.54: Maria agrees and reinforces that being present and enjoying the company of one's guests is the primary goal of hosting.
• 14.06: Christopher appreciates Maria bringing up the topic of paper plates. He discusses how some people may feel concerned about not having the finest China and reassures that it's perfectly okay to use paper plates.
• 15.07: Maria concludes by noting that guests primarily focus on the quality of the food and the enjoyment of the event, rather than the type of tableware used. She notes the environmental concerns with paper plates but highlights their convenience for large events where having enough traditional plates may not be feasible. 
• 16.19: Maria shares that her family enjoys talent shows as a post-dinner activity, where family members showcase their talents, making for memorable and entertaining moments.
• 17.58: Maria encourages the listeners not to be too hard on themselves and not to strive for perfection, as the moments that deviate from the script often lead to cherished memories.
• 19.45: Maria adds that after the event, she strings up the notes as part of her fall decor, serving as a reminder of the things they are thankful for throughout the season.
• 20.04: Christopher expresses gratitude for Maria's wonderful ideas and emphasizes the significance of gratitude in enhancing the holiday experience.

3 Key Points

1. Maria announces her new book titled "Ohh, What's for Dinner? No Fuss Weeknight Recipes," a compilation of her favorite entrees. The book offers efficient recipes suitable for busy weeknights, making it easier for people to put a satisfying meal on the table.
2. Maria encourages putting family and friends to work, whether it's making cocktails, overseeing shoe removal, or handling other tasks. Delegating responsibilities and strategically arranging food and drinks can make hosting a more enjoyable experience for both the host and guests.
3. Maria highlights a special Thanksgiving tradition to make people feel comfortable and encourage gratitude. She provides small sheets of paper for guests to anonymously write down something they're thankful for during appetizers.

Tweetable Quotes

• “Delegating not only eases the burden on the host but also makes guests feel good about contributing.” - Maria
• “If the hosts are having fun and are relaxed, it tends to make the entire gathering more enjoyable.” - Maria

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.instagram.com/mariasansone/?hl=en
• Podcast Editing

 

From Tears to Triumph: Supporting Anxious Children Through the Holidays with Michael Hempseed

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Michael Hempseed, Director of Frontiers of Hope, a specialist mental health service about how to help our children deal with anxiety and stress during the holidays. He is the co-author of the book “Calming Your Child: De-escalating Tantrums, Anxiety, Aggression, and Other Challenging Behaviors.”

 

Michael is also the author of “Being a True Hero: Understanding and Preventing Suicide in Your Community”. He has spoken to Frontera, New Zealand, Post fire and Emergency New Zealand and many others. Michael gained an honors degree in psychology from the University of Canterbury in 2008 and he has had the opportunity to speak at a TED event in 2016.

 

Episode Highlights

• 01:53: Michael discusses the increasing trend of very young children displaying heightened anxiety. Many are so anxious they cannot attend school.
• 02:37: Michael highlights the ripple effect of a child's anxiety on their family. He shares an anecdote of parents needing to take six months off work to care for their severely anxious child, underlining the significant impact on the entire family.
• 03:18: Christopher inquiries about the topic of sensory issues in children, as mentioned in the book "Calming Your Child". He seeks clarity on what sensory issues entail and emphasizes the importance of understanding and recognizing them in children.
• 04:10: Michael emphasizes that sensory issues aren't limited to just sounds but affect all senses. He shares statistics from his mental health service, noting a significant number of individuals with moderate to severe sensory issues, especially among young children.
• 05:02: Christopher emphasizes the intensity of her daughter’s discomfort, using the word "excruciating" to describe her experience. He notes the challenge it poses for her to stay calm given her heightened perception of sound.
• 06:42: Michael stresses that children don't act out without a reason, but rather are dealing with overwhelming emotions they can't express properly and this overwhelming feeling in children can manifest as aggressive behaviours like punching or yelling.
• 07:51: Christopher introduces the idea of perspective and how individuals perceive the world differently. He emphasizes that when people, especially children, act out, it's a form of communication.
• 08:28: Michael discusses the challenge of sensory issues. Many who experience them believe it's a normal part of life since they've always felt that way. He stresses the importance of patience and effort in understanding and working through these challenges.
• 08:55: Christopher queries why upcoming holiday season time of the year can be particularly stressful for families, especially those with children.
• 09:21: Michael addresses interpersonal stress, particularly when families gather, mentioning scenarios where certain relatives may not get along.
• 10:10: Christopher discusses the importance of finding ways to make the holidays less stressful and seeks professional advice and tips on managing holiday stress.
• 11:20: Michael talks about how volunteering can help young people gain perspective and feel a sense of purpose. He suggests taking children to visit the elderly. He also provides guidance on how to initiate conversation, emphasizing the mutual benefits.
• 12:26: Michael discusses the importance of sleep, mentioning it is a long chapter in his book. He talks about the negative effects of sleep deprivation. He relates sleep deprivation to mood and behaviour in both adults and children.
• 14:10: Michael highlights that not every sign of stress or behavioural issue necessitates counselling. Encourages trying alternative solutions like volunteering before resorting to counselling.
• 15:39: Michael notes that if a child's behaviour is affecting the family's lifestyle, like avoiding social events, it might be time to seek help. He emphasizes the importance of observing not just the intensity but the recurrence of problematic behaviours.
• 16:05: Christopher poses a question about when to consider professional help and seeks advice for parents to help their children in the upcoming year.
• 17:15: Michael discusses the benefits of free play for children. He mentions that it helps children develop problem-solving skills and improve social interaction.
• 18:42: Michael differentiates between forcing someone to practice an instrument and allowing them to enjoy it. He shares a study about Nobel Prize winners in the sciences having artistic and musical hobbies. Points out the value of art and music in enhancing cognitive abilities.
• 19:07: Christopher shares his belief that adults are usually grateful for having learned an instrument and often regret if they quit playing.
• 19:24: Michael discusses studies that indicate a surge in the amount of homework kids have today. He mentions the overburdening of young children and the need to reintroduce the concept of fun in learning.
• 20:10: Christopher shares a possibly apocryphal story from World War 2 about Winston Churchill emphasizing the importance of art even in dire times.

 

3 Key Points

1. Michael discusses the increasing trend of very young children displaying heightened anxiety, with many being so anxious they cannot attend school.
2. Christopher speaks about the intensity of his daughter's discomfort due to sensory issues, highlighting that many behavioral problems are reactions from individuals feeling overwhelmed by sensory stimuli rather than intentional acts of rebellion.
3. Michael emphasizes the significance of sleep, discussing its impact on mood and behavior in both adults and children, and relates sleep deprivation to various negative effects.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• “Merely living in the era of COVID has deeply impacted individuals regardless of personal sentiments.” - Michael
• “Many behavioral problems aren't intentional acts of rebellion but are reactions from individuals feeling overwhelmed and distressed by sensory stimuli.” - Michael
• "Children don't act out without a reason, but rather are dealing with overwhelming emotions they can't express properly." - Michael
• "Not every sign of stress or behavioral issue necessitates counseling. Encourages trying alternative solutions like volunteering before resorting to counseling." - Michael

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• Podcast Editing

Nature, Literature, and Bonding: The Power of Books with Emily Liebel

On today's episode, host Dr. Carla Marie Manley, a clinical psychologist and author from Sonoma County, California, talks to Emily Liebel, about her role on the website “Run Wild, My Child”. Emily shares her passion for children's books and the importance of encouraging kids to read. She emphasizes her dual enthusiasm for outdoor activities and reading, highlighting how she has combined the two for children. The discussion emphasizes the significance of talking about the book and its content during the walk, reinforcing the connection between literature and nature.

Episode Highlights

• 02:04: Emily reveals an interesting detail that she and her two brothers are named after notable literary figures. Emily is named after the renowned poet, Emily Dickinson.
• 02:17: Books and literature played a significant role in Emily's childhood. It was not just about reading but also bonding over the stories, lessons, and experiences from the literature they consumed. This formed an integral part of their quality family time.
• 03:00: Carla asks Emily about the role of books in her childhood, specifically if they had bedtime stories or how books were integrated into their daily routine.
• 04:49: Emily emphasizes the beauty of books related to the outdoors and the profound impact they can have on children. She shares her experiences of combining outdoor activities with reading to children, highlighting how one complements the other.
• 05:18: Emily recommends a beautifully illustrated book, Robert Frost's poem "The Road Not Taken," and describes how she uses it as a prelude to outdoor activities to enrich the experience for her kids.
• 07:24: The website “Run Wild, My Child”, aims to help parents who are looking to get their kids more involved in outdoor activities. It offers various suggestions, ranging from craft ideas to book recommendations, with the goal of reducing screen time and encouraging kids to play outside.
• 08:33: Emily expresses her love for writing for the website, sharing her passion for using books as a tool to inspire outdoor activities for children. She is in the process of writing another piece focusing on books for the colder seasons like fall and winter.
• 09:30: Carla accepts that through sources of inspiration like "Run Wild My Child", parents can easily find new ideas and paths to explore with their kids, without the stress of having to come up with them on their own.
• 10:52: For micro adventure, Emily explains a simple activity of observing and collecting different leaves during the fall, noting the changes in colours. The goal is to appreciate the beauty of changing seasons and nature.
• 11:49: Carla delves into the idea that these activities can be customized based on the individual's available time. A more extended adventure could involve a long drive, while a short one might be a quick stroll in the neighbourhood.
• 12:35: Emily emphasizes that books like "Sunday fun day" encompass a wide range of outdoor activities. They offer crafts, games, and "I spy" type challenges alongside recipes suitable for outdoor cooking. She brings attention to another series of books that are divided by season. These books provide a multitude of recipes, crafts, and activities for each season.
• 13:35:  Carla shifts the topic to a more poignant issue: how families can use books and outdoor experiences to initiate conversations on matters such as eco-anxiety and environmental care.
• 14:53: Emily also has a personal favourite on eco-anxiety: a community garden-themed counting book. This beautifully illustrated book showcases various community members collaborating to nurture a shared garden.
• 15:37: Carla believes that books provide an avenue for children to channel their anxieties and learn that positive change is possible. They promote a stronger bond with nature, teaching the importance of caring for and utilizing outdoor spaces for the collective good.
• 16:00: Emily emphasizes the vast range of topics books cover and the ease of finding them either through personal online searches or by visiting local establishments. She suggests consulting with local librarians as they stay updated with recent publications and have first-hand knowledge of the books available in their collection. They can thus quickly recommend relevant titles.
• 17:30: Emily stresses the importance of reflection by comparing personal experiences with those of characters in books. This helps children process their emotions and learn from their adventures.
• 18:02: Emily asserts that books can catalyse a child's imagination, turning their reading experiences into real-life adventures, enhancing both their creativity and pleasure.

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3 Key Points

1. Emily Liebel emphasizes the harmonious blend of outdoor activities and reading for children. Through books like Robert Frost's "The Road Not Taken," children are introduced to nature in a literary context, allowing them to experience the outdoors through the lens of literature.
2. The conversation sheds light on how books can be powerful tools in initiating discussions on environmental issues like eco-anxiety. Emily's recommendation, a community garden-themed counting book, demonstrates how literature can foster a sense of community and highlight collaborative efforts to care for the environment.
3. Emily accentuates the transformative power of books in sparking a child's imagination. By reading and reflecting, children are not only enhancing their creativity but also turning their literary experiences into tangible, real-world adventures.

Tweetable Quotes

• "Books are not just about reading; they're about bonding over stories, lessons, and experiences.” - Emily
• "Nature and literature go hand-in-hand. 'The Road Not Taken' by Robert Frost is more than just a poem; it's a prelude to outdoor adventures.” - Emily
• "Run Wild, My Child' is a beacon for parents looking to combine the beauty of nature and the power of literature. Less screen time, more green time!"  - Emily
• "Books are gateways, transforming reading experiences into real-life adventures, sparking creativity and joy in young minds.” - Emily

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://runwildmychild.com/
• Podcast Editing

A Taste of Tradition: Exploring Jewish Holidays with Adina Oberman

On this episode of the "Helping Families be Happy Podcast," host, Christopher Robbins husband and father of nine, residing in the Central Valley of California talks to Adina Oberman. She is a former preschool teacher and over 15 years, she has helped families through the ups and downs of early childhood. Adina is the creator of “Big Books for Little Hands”, a valuable resource for parents and educators seeking the best books to navigate the challenges of life with kids to the best books for navigating the challenges of life with kids.

 

Episode Highlights

• 01.40: Adina mentions the importance of food in Jewish holidays, emphasizing that eating together is a significant part of the celebration.
• 03.40: Sukkot is a holiday during which people build temporary huts outside their homes. This holiday is a celebration, often associated with the harvest season, where communal meals are held in these temporary huts. 
• 04:15: Simchat holiday is a celebration of reading the Torah, the Old Testament, from beginning to end over the course of a year. Simchat Torah is a joyful holiday filled with festivities, including lots of eating and family fun. 
• 05.52: Christopher notes that Yom Kippur is a solemn holiday and it's a specific time when people can reflect on any offenses they may have committed against their family, friends, God, and the world around them.
• 07.15: Adina emphasizes that seeking forgiveness tradition is beautiful because it helps prevent small transgressions from accumulating within family relationships. It allows people to come full circle, make amends, and start fresh, fostering reconciliation and positive relationships.
• 09:25: Christopher asks Adina to describe the foods and recipes that are typically included in celebratory Jewish meals. 
• 10.21: In Jewish celebrations food varies from house to house and my family but during Rosh Hashanah, there are several symbolic foods like apples dipped in honey, braided bread, and Matzo ball soup and brisket.
• 11.52: Adina suggests that food is an excellent way to engage children in cultural traditions. Parents can involve their kids by either preparing food together or sitting down to eat and explaining the significance of the dishes being served to help children feel connected to their heritage and understand the reasons behind the holiday customs.
• 12.16: Adina recommends reading books about Jewish holidays to children. These books can be a valuable resource in making abstract concepts more understandable and relatable to young minds.
• 16.06: Adina suggests seeking out a local Jewish Community Centre, which can be found in many states across the United States. JCCs typically offer a wide range of programming for all ages and levels of observance which allows families to participate in meaningful ways within the Jewish community and helps build a strong Jewish identity for their children.

3 Key Points

1. There are several Jewish holidays during this season, starting with Rosh Hashanah, which is the Jewish New Year, says Adina. She explains that Rosh Hashanah is a time for celebration, renewal, reflection, and a focus on making the upcoming year better.
2. Adina explains that Rosh Hashanah is a joyful holiday and is a time of renewal and rebirth, similar to the way January 1st is celebrated as the New Year in the secular calendar. During Rosh Hashanah, people often engage in the custom of dipping apples into honey, symbolizing the desire for a sweet and prosperous year ahead.
3. PJ Library serves as a practical and accessible way for parents and caregivers to introduce their children to Jewish traditions and strengthen their connection to their cultural heritage, says Adina.

Tweetable Quotes

• “Simchat holiday follows Sukkot in the Jewish calendar and is marked by lively and spirited celebrations within the Jewish community.” - Adina Oberman
• “You can say "Happy New Year" to anyone celebrating Rosh Hashanah but in general for any Jewish holiday, you can use the phrase "Chag Sameach," which means "Happy Holiday." This is a versatile greeting suitable for various Jewish celebrations.” - Adina Oberman

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.bigbooksforlittlehands.com/
• Podcast Editing

 

Words Matter: Enhancing Children’s Communication Skills Through Social-Emotional Learning with Katie Plunkett

On today's episode, host Dr. Carla Marie Manley, a clinical psychologist and author from Sonoma County, California, talks to Katie Plunkett, a fourth-grade classroom teacher and entrepreneur. This episode provides valuable information to help families improve their communication and emotional well-being.

 

Episode Highlights

• 01:19: Dr. Carla Marie Manley asks Katie Plunkett to share more about herself and what makes her unique. Katie explains that she is a full-time fourth-grade classroom teacher and expresses her love for teaching.
• 02:06: Katie explains that she benefited from many self-help resources designed for adults but couldn't find similar content suitable for kids.
• 02:25: Katie highlights the scarcity of mental health professionals in schools and the privilege of having access to them.
• 03:04: Katie defined social-emotional learning as explicitly teaching social skills to children in the classroom and providing them with the language to express their emotions. This helps them engage in conversations about their feelings, work through their emotions, and understand that what they're experiencing is normal.
• 04:53: Social-emotional learning involves helping children understand and manage their evolving emotions and social interactions as they grow and develop their identities.
• 06:22: Dr. Carla and Katie demonstrated how social-emotional learning can be implemented through interactive and engaging activities that help children develop problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• 07:15: Katie shares examples that illustrate how simple activities can foster emotional awareness and communication skills in children, helping them navigate their emotions and social interactions effectively.
• 08:17: Dr. Carla highlights the challenges some parents may face when trying to engage their children in social-emotional learning activities at home.
• 09:20: The discussion highlights the effectiveness of using picture books as a tool for initiating conversations about emotions and social interactions with children.
• 09:27: In this segment of the podcast, Dr. Carla emphasized the accessibility of using picture books to teach social-emotional learning concepts to children of various ages, from young children to teenagers.
• 11:50: Dr. Carla and Katie highlight the importance of emotional awareness and the role it plays in effective communication. It sets the stage for discussing practical tips to enhance children's communication skills.
• 12:40: Katie highlights the significance of setting a positive example and actively engaging in meaningful conversations with children to foster their communication skills.
• 13:08: Dr. Carla and Katie discuss effective communication with children, particularly the importance of asking open-ended questions to encourage meaningful conversation.
• 16:03: Katie shares her perspective on children's mental health, considering the challenges and negativity often associated with it.
• 20:04: Dr. Carla emphasized the long-term payoffs, including improved communication and social-emotional development.

 

3 Key Points

1. Dr. Carla and Katie emphasize the importance of using effective questioning techniques to encourage children to share their thoughts and experiences more openly, ultimately fostering better communication between parents and children.
2. Dr. Carla and Katie talk about the importance of limiting screen time for children and the benefits of doing so.
3. Katie talks about her upcoming book, scheduled to be released late next summer or early fall, which will focus on effective communication with children and integrating social-emotional skills into conversations.

Tweetable Quotes

• “Children learn not only from the information they're presented but also from the behavior and actions of adults.” - Katie Plunkett
• “In today's busy world, families may not have the time to delve into extensive reading or research. Therefore, they aim to provide quick and actionable solutions that can be easily implemented by parents and caregivers.” - Katie Plunkett
• “Open-ended questions are key to getting more meaningful responses from children.” - Katie Plunkett

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• thecalmclassroom.org
• Podcast Editing