Just One Thing for Parents with Dr Bettina Hohnen

• Episode 55 - Protecting Young People from Toxic Shame with Dr Stephen Blumenthal

  Have you ever wondered why some children seem to shrink inside themselves after a mistake, while others recover quickly and move on? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Stephen Blumenthal, clinical psychologist, psychoanalyst and author, to explore an emotion that touches every family but is so often misunderstood: shame.    Drawing on his decades of clinical experience, Stephen explains how shame is both a normal and necessary part of human development, helping children understand social boundaries and navigate relationships. But when shame is constant or overwhelming, it can shape how a child thinks and feels about themselves in ways that are not helpful.   We discuss what shame actually is and how it differs from guilt. Stephen offers examples of how everyday parenting moments can either support healthy development or unintentionally tip a child into feeling defective, exposed or alone. We also explore the role of emotional connection in protecting children from pathological shame, why ruptures can be repaired, and how parents' own histories influence the way we respond to our children. Stephen shares thoughtful guidance on how parents can stay emotionally present, set boundaries in a loving way, and help young children and teenagers build resilience without slipping into criticism or humiliation.   If you're a parent – or supporting any young person growing up in an increasingly judgemental world – this episode offers clarity, reassurance and practical insight. More from Dr Blumenthal: https://stephenblumenthal.com 

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• Episode 54 - What Children Need Most From Us in Times of Grief with Dr Hannah Abrahams

  Grief is one of the hardest experiences a child can face, and one of the hardest moments for a parent to support.    In this episode, I speak with Dr Hannah Abrahams, an Educational Psychologist with more than twenty years of experience supporting children through bereavement. Hannah brings such warmth, clarity and reassurance to a topic that can often feel overwhelming for parents.   She explains why honesty is not only kinder but essential, especially when our instinct might be to soften the truth. She shares why euphemisms can confuse children, how their understanding of grief changes as their brain develops and why we need to expect them to revisit their loss again and again as they grow.    We discuss the role of memorialising, the value of creating rituals and memories and why talking about the person who has died keeps their story alive in a way that can be grounding for children moving forward.   Hannah shares so much practical and compassionate advice. If your child is grieving or if you want to feel more prepared for these conversations, this episode will guide you.   Dr Hannah Abrahams' website: https://www.hannahabrahams.com

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• Episode 53 - Parenting Through the Storms: What Children Really Need From Us With Dona Matthews

  What does it really take to build a relationship with your child that can withstand the ups and downs of growing up — and how can you do that when family life feels busy, chaotic or overwhelming?   In this episode, I'm joined by developmental psychologist Dona Matthews, whose work focuses on helping parents create strong, secure relationships that carry children through whatever storms life brings. Drawing on decades of research, clinical experience and her own family life, Dona offers a compassionate reminder that resilience starts with connection — not perfection.   Together, we explore what it means to truly stay connected to your child: showing up emotionally, being present in the moment, and finding small ways to communicate "I'm here, I'm with you, I'm on your side." Dona explains why prioritising your own wellbeing is not selfish but foundational, because a regulated parent is better able to attune, respond and guide. She also talks about the simple but powerful role of breath, mindfulness and self-awareness in navigating tense or tricky moments.   You'll come away with a clearer understanding of how small, mindful moments help build a relationship that can truly weather any storm — and why being "crazy about your child," as Dona puts it, is one of the most protective things you can offer.

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• Episode 52 - How Attachment Shapes Our Parenting: Understanding Caregiving and Care Seeking with Anne Power

  What does it really mean to give a child a secure attachment — and how can we do that if our own early experiences weren't secure?   In this episode, I'm joined by psychotherapist Anne Power, who has written extensively about attachment theory and how our early experiences shape not only how we parent, but how we relate to others throughout life.   Anne explains the two key attachment behaviours — caregiving and care seeking — and breaks them down into simple, practical elements that parents can notice and strengthen. Together we explore how attachment patterns are formed and passed from one generation to the next, what secure, avoidant, anxious and disorganised attachment might look like in family life, and how we can use this knowledge to nurture a secure bond.   We talk about what it means to be available and responsive, how to interpret your child's signals more accurately, and how your own attachment history may influence the way you respond when they are upset. Anne also offers practical ways to reshape your patterns as an adult — from creating small moments of repair with your child to finding tools for reflection and self-compassion that make change possible.   This conversation offers both compassion and clarity. You'll come away with a new understanding of how your own story influences the way you show up for your child, and what small, powerful changes you can make to help them feel safe, loved and understood.

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• Episode 51 - Must-Have Moments: How to Help Children with ADHD Thrive Across Their Lifespan

  Welcome to this special Must-Have Moments episode for ADHD Awareness Month.   In this compilation, Dr Bettina Hohnen revisits highlights from four expert conversations exploring ADHD and executive function through different stages of development — from early childhood right through to young adulthood.   We begin with Dr Laurie Faith, who explains what executive functions are, how they develop, and why joy and connection are essential for helping children's brains grow.  Then Dr Peg Dawson shares her "perfect intervention" — a simple, sustainable way to strengthen executive skills in teenagers.   Next, Linda Phillips guides us through how to support neurodivergent students as they transition to university — when independence increases but challenges may still remain.  And finally, Dr Jo Steer offers practical strategies for parents waiting for an ADHD assessment, focusing on meeting a child's needs right now rather than waiting for a diagnosis.   Together, these must-hear moments offer a developmental roadmap and a wealth of practical insights to help parents understand, support, and empower their children with ADHD and executive function differences.   Whether your child is just starting school, preparing for exams, or beginning university life, this episode will help you see the strengths behind the struggles — and remind you that small, consistent steps make a real difference.

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