Many say boredom is good for kids’ creativity, but gone are the long summer days where kids find things to do by riding bikes, exploring creeks, and running around the neighborhood til dinner. Today’s boredom is more often filled indoors with ever-present online content. So how do we keep our middle schoolers safe online this summer, when many have little oversight and maximum down time? In this episode, Jason Zeigler of AdaptShield discusses how parents can target the risks their family is most vulnerable to online so families can enjoy summer without constant monitoring.

Referenced in this episode:
The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt

About the Guest:
Jason brings 15 years of experience in financial services and healthcare sectors, with a focus on information security and risk management. Drawing on his professional expertise and personal experience as a parent, he was inspired to establish AdaptShield. The company is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of their digital worlds by offering free best practices, customized product recommendations, and personalized one-on-one consultations, all designed to reduce the risks families may face online.

Learn more about AdaptShield.
Use coupon code RSM2025 for a 10% discount on any AdaptShield services for Raising Middle School Girls listeners.
Connect with Jason on IG and FB.

Connect with Raising Middle School Girls:
Thank you for listening to the Raising Middle School Girls podcast. Want to hear more from experts who can help you support your middle school girl? Please subscribe to the podcast or sign up for the Raising Middle School Girls newsletter. Do you have a burning question about raising your middle school girl? Send a DM to @RaisingMiddleSchoolGirls on Instagram to have your question considered for a future episode. We're in this together, parents!

Sex. Drugs. Family finances…There are so many uncomfortable conversations we need to have with our kids! Many parents are waiting “until they get a little older,” but is that the right approach? In this episode of Raising Middle School Girls, educator and parenting coach Dana Kaplan talks to us about why we need to talk to our kids early and often about the hard stuff. Dana shares practical strategies for approaching tough topics. Learn how creating open communication can strengthen your relationship and empower your child during these pivotal years.

Useful Links
This episode includes a sponsored ad, and the links below may be affiliate links. I might earn a small commission if you buy—thanks for supporting the show!

Get the Brain on Board Executive Function course for parents and teachers - On sale NOW through 4/27/25!!

About the Guest: Dana Kaplan
Connect with Dana on Instagram.
Connect with Dana on LinkedIn.
Learn more about Dana's work at https://www.danakaplanteach.com.

Dana Kaplan is a renowned, award-winning Educational Coach for Neurodiverse and Out-of-the-Box Learners, specializing in rich self-investigation as a direct pathway to disrupt and dismantle stigmas, conscious and unconscious biases, and shifting one’s thoughts in order to build a Compassionate Community for ALL.

Connect with Raising Middle School Girls:
Thank you for listening to the Raising Middle School Girls podcast. Want to hear more from experts who can help you support your middle school girl? Please subscribe to the podcast or sign up for the Raising Middle School Girls newsletter. Do you have a burning question about raising your middle school girl? Send a DM to @RaisingMiddleSchoolGirls on Instagram to have your question considered for a future episode. We're in this together, parents!

Useful Links
This episode includes a sponsored ad, and the links below may be affiliate links. I might earn a small commission if you buy—thanks for supporting the show!

Get the Brain on Board Executive Function course for parents and teachers - On sale NOW through 4/27/25!!

Feeling more like roommates than romantic partners lately? Maybe you wish you could talk more openly with your significant other about what you want out of your marriage, or maybe you're not sure what the future holds for your relationship once it's just you and your significant other left at home. In this episode, licensed therapist Andrea Burkly offers up expert tips on navigating marital disconnect during the tween and teen parenting years. Andrea provides actionable steps to rebuild intimacy and connection with your spouse before the kids leave the nest.

Referenced in this episode:
The New Rules of Marriage: What you need to know to make love work, Terrence Real

The Challenges of mother-daughter relationships, episode released 10/17/24

About the Guest
Connect with Andrea on IG.
Listen to the Sounds Like Therapy podcast.
Learn more about Andrea's work.
Get Andrea's FREE 7-step weekly partnership guide.
Check out Sounds Like Therapy episode on good partnering.

Andrea Burkly is a therapist, speaker, and host of Sounds Like Therapy, where she helps couples stay connected through the parenting years—when marriage often takes a back seat to the demands of raising kids. Coming up on her 20th anniversary and raising four kids of her own, she’s learned as much from personal experience as she has from thousands of hours of work and training. With a relatable, no-nonsense approach, Andrea gives couples the insight and tools they need to build a strong, lasting partnership—even in the busiest seasons of life.

Connect with Raising Middle School Girls:
Thank you for listening to the Raising Middle School Girls podcast. Want to hear more from experts who can help you support your middle school girl? Please subscribe to the podcast or sign up for the Raising Middle School Girls newsletter. Do you have a burning question about raising your middle school girl? Send a DM to @RaisingMiddleSchoolGirls on Instagram to have your question considered for a future episode. We're in this together, parents!