🎙️ The Great Playdate Debate: Structured vs. Unstructured Fun:

Playtime isn’t what it used to be! Join us as we explore the pros and cons of structured vs. unstructured play for kids, the role of playgrounds in childhood development, and the lessons we’ve learned from our own wild playground adventures.

What We Cover:

🌟 Structured vs. Unstructured Play: Finding the right balance for your child.

🏃 Benefits of Playgrounds: Social skills, physical activity, and creativity.

😂 Our Playground Memories: The good, the bad, and the funny.

🤝 Building Friendships: How play can help kids connect and grow.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Kalamata olive bread Sourdough 2.0

Sara: Love is Blind (Netlflix)

Mike: Gardening backyard redo

Links:

Article mentioned on show: Unstructured Play for Children https://www.verywellfamily.com/unstructured-play-2764971

Sourdough Starter (for White Bread Flour) https://www.theclevercarrot.com/2019/03/beginner-sourdough-starter-recipe/

Sourdough Bread Masterclass With Patrick Ryan - Baking Instructions https://ilovecooking.ie/features/sourdough-bread-masterclass-with-patrick-ryan/

The Clever Carrot - adding olives to sourdough https://www.theclevercarrot.com/2021/06/how-to-add-fillings-olive-sourdough-bread-recipe/

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Question of the Week? ** What do you before a playdate to help your kids have a good hangout?**

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-LES-KIDS 559-537-5437

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane

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🎙️ Bedtime Battles Solved: A Simple Guide to Sleep Training:

Sleep is essential for kids (and parents!), but getting everyone to bed isn’t always easy. We’re sharing tips for establishing consistent bedtime routines, dealing with nighttime battles, and making sure everyone gets the rest they need.

🛌 Why Sleep Matters: The science behind sleep and its impact on kids.

🎯 Bedtime Routines: Practical steps for smoother nights.

🕒 Late-Night Struggles: Strategies for dealing with interruptions and resistance.

💡 Parent Self-Care: Making sleep a priority for yourself, too.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Baba Is You (Switch/Mac/PC/iOS/Android)

Sara: Experience with Invisalign

Mike: (Mike is out this week)

Links:

Article mentioned on show

Bedtime Routines for Children https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/bedtime-routine

Harvey Karp (YouTube Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRkRlvPGywM

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Question of the Week? ** What routines do you have in your household? Are you more go with the flow or stick to steps?**

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-LES-KIDS 559-537-5437

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane

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🎙️ Easy & Fun School Lunch Ideas Your Kids Will Actually Eat:

Packing school lunches can feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be! We’re here with tips for making lunchtime easier, healthier, and more fun for your kids (and maybe even yourself).

🥪 Creative Lunch Ideas: Recipes and hacks for picky eaters.

🥤 Balancing Health and Fun: How to pack lunches your kids will actually eat.

🍎 Packing with Efficiency: Save time and reduce morning stress.

😂 Our Lunchbox Fails: Lessons learned from lunchtime disasters.

Heit’s Ultimate Lunch Daves Good Slice Bread Natural Peanut Banana slides long way then in half Kosher Salt Mike’s Hot Honey (or Trader Joe’s)

Time To Unplug

Michael: Zelda Tears of The Kingdom

Sara: One Day (Netflix 2024)

Mike: Shogun (FX)

Links:

24 Healthy Snacks for Kids and Toddlers That Are Fun and Easy to Make https://www.thebump.com/a/healthy-snacks-for-kids

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Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-537-5437 559-537-KIDS 559-LESKIDS

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane.

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ Keeping Kids Safe Online: Internet Safety Tips for Parents:

The internet is a vast and sometimes tricky place for kids to navigate. In this episode, we’re discussing how to keep kids safe online while encouraging healthy habits and independence.

What We Cover:

🛡️ Monitoring Tools: Apps and strategies for managing screen time and online safety.

💬 Talking About Internet Safety: Age-appropriate ways to discuss risks and expectations.

📱 Healthy Digital Habits: Balancing screen time and offline activities.

😂 Our Internet Fails: Stories of digital parenting mishaps.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Avatar The Last Airbender (Netflix 2024)

Sara: DIY Wreath (Easter on Youtube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjDb3eK-3Wc&t=1s

Mike: D&D Dice Camp Pain D&D Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/camp-pain/id1725529161

Links:

Article mentioned on show 1. What To Know About Limiting Your Child’s Screen Time (NY TIMES) https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/24/technology/personaltech/what-to-know-about-limiting-your-childs-screen-time.html

2. I Monitor My Teens' Electronics, and You Should Too (wired.com) https://www.wired.com/story/parents-should-monitor-teens-electronics/

Additional Resources

Setting up Screen Time (Apple Products) https://support.apple.com/en-us/108806

Setting up Family Link (Android Products) https://support.google.com/families/answer/7101025?hl=en

How to recognize signs of distress in Children (UNICEF) https://www.unicef.org/parenting/child-care/how-to-recognize-signs-of-distress

Back to School: Know the Warning Signs of Bullying (Mayo Clinic) https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/back-to-school-know-the-warning-signs-of-bullying-2/

How to Turn Kids' Phones Off at Night (or Anytime, Really) (Common Sense Media) https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/how-to-turn-kids-phones-off-at-night-or-anytime-really

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Question of the Week? ** What do you do about sharing accounts or monitoring your child? **

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-LES-KIDS 559-537-5437

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ Raising Boys Today: What Parents Need to Know:

What does it mean to raise boys in today’s world? We’re sharing stories, advice, and lessons learned from parenting sons, with a focus on empathy, resilience, and self-expression.

What We Cover:

🎯 Understanding Boys: Breaking stereotypes and encouraging individuality.

🤝 Teaching Empathy: How to raise compassionate, emotionally aware boys.

💪 Building Confidence: Helping boys navigate challenges and setbacks.

😂 Our Parenting Wins and Fails: Lessons we’ve learned along the way.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Cacio e Pepe Puffs (Trader Joe’s Chopsticks Optional)

Sara: Spotify DJ

Mike: Halo Season 2 (Paramount Plus)

Links:

Raising boys to be good men. Here’s one way to do it https://www.cnn.com/2023/10/23/health/raising-boys-to-be-good-men-wellness/index.html

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-LES-KIDS 559-537-5437

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.his week we are...

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ Allowance, Chores & Responsibility: How to Teach Kids About Money:

Money, chores, and kids—oh my! Join us as we explore the best ways to teach responsibility, the value of hard work, and money management skills through allowances and chores.

What We Cover:

💸 Allowance Guidelines: How much to give and when.

🧹 Age-Appropriate Chores: Building independence at every stage.

🌟 Teaching Responsibility: Life lessons kids can learn from chores.

😂 Our Chore Stories: The funny and frustrating moments we’ll never forget.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Learning To Play Piano When There’s No Recital

Sara: Duolingo (Spanish + Creole)

Mike: Star Wars Micro Galaxy Squadron

Links:

The Ultimate List of Age-Appropriate Chores for Children and Teens https://childdevelopmentinfo.com/chores/the-ultimate-list-of-age-appropriate-chores/

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-LES-KIDS 559-537-5437

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane.

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ Valentine’s Day with Kids: Fun Family Traditions & Activities:

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples—it’s a chance to spread love and joy to your whole family. We’re sharing fun ways to celebrate together, from crafts to activities, and even a few sweet surprises.

💌 DIY Valentine’s Crafts: Creative projects for kids of all ages.

🍫 Sweet Treats: Simple recipes for family-friendly desserts.

🎉 Family Traditions: How to make Valentine’s Day special for everyone.

😂 Our Valentine’s Day Fails: Funny stories that prove it’s the thought that counts.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Crokinole Board

Sara: DeerRun 3 in 1 Folding Treadmills

Mike: Kids basketball hoop

Links:

12 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day for Kids (Urbansitter.com) https://blog.urbansitter.com/12-ways-to-celebrate-valentines-day-with-your-kids/

Duff Goldman (Cookie Salad) Super Good Cookies for Kids https://www.harpercollins.com/products/super-good-cookies-for-kids-duff-goldman?variant=40824799723554

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-537-5437 559-537-KIDS 559-LESKIDS

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Bluesky: (@heyotherparents.bsky.social) https://bsky.app/profile/heyotherparents.bsky.social

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane.

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ Raising Girls: The Joys & Challenges Every Parent Faces:

Raising daughters comes with its own unique joys and challenges. We’re discussing everything from emotional intelligence to breaking gender stereotypes, and how to empower the next generation of girls.

What We Cover:

🌟 Breaking Stereotypes: Encouraging individuality and confidence.

🤝 Building Strong Relationships: How to foster open communication with your daughters.

💪 Empowering Girls: Teaching resilience, independence, and self-worth.

😂 Parenting Stories: The moments that made us laugh (and cry).

Time To Unplug

Michael: Final Fantasy Pixel Remastered Collection on Steam Deck (also on Switch / PS5)

Sara: Bissell handheld steamer

Mike: NOCO Genius car battery starter

Links:

10 Tips To Help Dads and Daughters Stay Close https://childmind.org/article/10-tips-help-dads-daughters-stay-close/

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-537-5437 559-537-KIDS 559-LESKIDS

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane.

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ How to Share Star Wars with Your Kids (And Make Them Love It): Whether you’re a lifelong fan or introducing your kids to the galaxy for the first time, this episode is for you! We’re talking all things Star Wars—why it’s a timeless story, how to make it fun for your family, and the best ways to share it with the next generation.

What We Cover:

🌟 Why We Love Star Wars: Themes and lessons that resonate with all ages.

📽️ Where to Start: Movies, shows, and books perfect for introducing kids.

🎉 Star Wars Family Fun: DIY activities, games, and party ideas.

💡 The Big Lessons: What Star Wars teaches about family, bravery, and hope.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Nintendo Switch Online (Super Mario 2)

Mike: Godzilla Minus One

Links:

The Star Wars TV episodes to watch before The Mandalorian season 2 https://www.polygon.com/star-wars/2020/10/28/21536795/the-mandalorian-season-2-references-star-wars-clone-wars-rebels-watch-episodes

10 episodes of Star Wars to watch before Ahsoka https://www.space.com/ten-episodes-of-star-wars-to-watch-before-ahsoka

Overthinking the initiation into 'Star Wars' for our kids (CNN) https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2017/12/08/health/star-wars-go-ask-your-dad/index.html

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-537-5437 559-537-KIDS 559-LESKIDS

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane.

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

🎙️ How to Get Your Kids to Try New Foods (Featuring Korean BBQ)

Tired of chicken nuggets and mac ‘n’ cheese? This week, we’re talking about how to introduce kids to new and adventurous foods. From cultural cuisines to fun food challenges, we’ve got tips to make mealtime exciting (and less stressful).

What We Cover:

🍣 Overcoming Picky Eating: Strategies for expanding your kids’ palates.

🌎 Cultural Cuisine Adventures: Teaching kids about the world through food.

👩‍🍳 Cooking Together: How to involve kids in preparing new meals.

🎉 Making It Fun: Turning adventurous eating into a game or family tradition.

Time To Unplug

Michael: Finding 'Ohana (Netflix)

Sara: More difficult puzzles with large portions of similar design

Mike: Welcome to Wrexham (FX)

Links:

Middendorf's Restaurant https://middendorfsrestaurant.com/

How To Survive Eating Out With Your Kids https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnmariani/2022/02/10/how-to-survive-eating-out-with-your-kids/?sh=55e0e2819d21

Support Hey Other Parents: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents

Call Leave a Voicemail: 559-537-5437 559-537-KIDS 559-LESKIDS

Email Us: (Keep it short, keep it weird, ?, funny moment, comment etc) [email protected]

Instagram: (@heyotherparents) https://instagram.com/heyotherparents

Our Intro Our intro voice recording was done by the one and only Koltrane.

Leave Us a Review Apple Podcast App click ratings and reviews.

Support Hey Other Parents by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/heyotherparents