In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline dig into the rise of AI and how it’s reshaping our daily lives, relationships, and even parenting.

From the clickbait story of a marriage ending “because of ChatGPT,” to the quiet ways technology chips away at memory, empathy, and connection, this conversation is equal parts cautionary and practical. They explore how AI can be a helpful tool—but also why it should never replace genuine human interaction.

Most importantly, they share how families can protect their relationships, model authentic communication, and return to the simple, everyday gestures that build trust and love.

Homework Activities for Adults

Tech-Free Check-In: Schedule a weekly family or partner debrief—share the good, the hard, and what support you need. Phones off.

Face-to-Face First: Swap texting with short calls when possible, and encourage kids to practice real conversations.

Connection Rituals: Create small rituals (morning walks, after-school tea, family dinners) that strengthen bonds.

Memory Workout: Use paper maps, cook without recipes, or play memory games to keep cognitive skills sharp.

Relationship Roots: Bring back “early courtship” habits—small notes, thoughtful gestures, shared jokes—that keep love alive.

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Parenting expert and therapist Todd Sarner joins Andrew and Caroline to unpack what it really means to guide children without shame or punishment.

From his 20+ years of experience, Todd outlines the three pillars of proactive parenting: strengthening attachment and connection, creating a rhythm and environment that supports kids, and teaching natural consequences without shame.

Together, they explore how separation anxiety shows up at bedtime, mornings, and school transitions, and why “collect before you direct” can change everything. This episode gives parents practical tools to reduce power struggles, hold boundaries with empathy, and raise resilient, emotionally secure kids.

Homework Ideas

Collect Before You Direct: Practice greeting your child warmly (eye contact, smile, touch) before asking them to do something.

Bridging Practice: At goodbyes (bedtime, school drop-off), give your child a clear picture of when and how you’ll reconnect (“I’ll see you in two sleeps” / “When you get home, I’ll have a snack waiting for you”).

Reset Routine: If family rules and follow-through feel inconsistent, hold a “reset” talk with your child: acknowledge the inconsistency, clarify expectations, and explain what will happen moving forward.

Matter-of-Fact Consequences: Next time you enforce a limit, do it calmly and without shame — like Columbo, keep it simple, warm, and firm.

Empathy Check: After holding a boundary, add empathy: “I know this is hard. I love you, and I’ll be here when you’re ready.”

Recommended Resources:

• Hold On to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Mate
• Parenting with Love and Logic by Charles Fay & Foster Cline
• Parenting Teens with Love and Logic by Charles Fay & Foster Cline

About Todd

Todd Sarner is a parenting coach and psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping families turn daily power struggles and emotional chaos into connection, calm, and cooperation at home. His work is grounded in attachment science and practical psychology, with a focus on giving parents real-world tools that actually work—especially when emotions are high and patience is low. Todd was an original intern of renowned developmental psychologist Dr. Gordon Neufeld and later served as a Faculty Member of the Neufeld Institute, where he trained professionals in attachment-based approaches to parenting.

www.transformativeparenting.com

www.masterclassforparents.com

www.facebook.com/tparenting

www.instagram.com/tparenting

www.x.com/tparenting

www.linkedin.com/in/toddsarner/

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When should parents step in and request a teacher change for their child?

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline break down one of the most difficult decisions many families face: advocating for a classroom change.

They share their own recent personal experience navigating a challenging teacher-student dynamic that left their child anxious, tearful, and resistant to school.

Together, they explore:

• The difference between normal classroom struggles vs. true red flags.
• Why “not having friends in class” isn’t enough of a reason.
• How to tell when your child’s learning and emotional well-being are at risk.
• Practical steps for approaching school administrators with confidence and clarity.
• The importance of balancing resilience with advocacy.

Whether you’re a parent currently struggling with this decision, or simply preparing for the “what if,” this candid conversation will leave you better equipped to support your child while maintaining healthy partnerships with teachers and schools.

If you're thinking of making a request:

• Reflect on Your Child’s Situation: Write down concrete examples of your child’s school experiences (e.g., emotional distress, avoidance, patterns of conflict). Separate opinion from observable facts.
• Debrief with Your Child: Have a calm conversation asking open-ended questions (“How do you feel in this class?” “What makes it hard?”). Avoid immediately offering solutions.
• Assess Severity: Distinguish between everyday discomfort (not being with friends, occasional teasing) and serious concerns (consistent bullying, ongoing tears, refusal to learn).
• Plan Your Approach: Draft an email or talking points for administrators that include specific examples instead of general complaints.
• Collaborate First: List at least 3 questions you’ll ask the teacher to understand their perspective and strategies before requesting any changes.

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