The Research All Parents Need To Know About Punishments
Jess and Scott break down what research says about approaches like spanking, harsh verbal discipline, threats and bribes — and why authoritative parenting (balancing warmth with structure) leads to better outcomes.This episode is perfect for parents who are curious about non-punitive strategies or who want to raise cooperative kids without relying on fear or control.If you want to learn more about parenting without punishments, check out the Parenting Little Kids course here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: [email protected]. Credits:Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured FirstÂ
Learn more about The Anger Course here!
-------- Â
1:06:20
The Impact Of Social Media, Gaming And Smartphones On Kids
A must-listen episode for ALL parents and educators. Jess and Scott tackle the complex world of smartphones and social media use, sharing both research-backed concerns and practical guidance for parents. They explore the fine line between allowing kids to develop necessary digital skills and protecting their developing brains from content that can significantly impact their mental health and social development. Listeners will gain strategies for setting appropriate boundaries, communicating decisions effectively to children, and modelling healthy digital habits that prepare kids for a world where technology is unavoidable but navigable.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: [email protected]. Credits:Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured FirstÂ
Learn more about The Anger Course here!
-------- Â
1:03:07
Impulse Control: What Every Parent Needs To Know
Jess and Scott dive deep into the science of impulse control in children, explaining why little ones struggle to control their impulses and how parents can effectively support this critical developmental process. They explore brain development across different age groups—from toddlers who are "completely run by impulses" to teens experiencing a rush of emotions while their logical brain struggles to catch up. Listeners will gain practical, science-backed approaches to help navigate impulsive behaviours, understand the "why" behind children's actions, and learn how to balance setting boundaries with maintaining the warm connection that makes children most teachable.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: [email protected]. Credits:Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured FirstÂ
Learn more about The Anger Course here!
-------- Â
56:12
Why Kids Need Boredom Now More Than Ever
Jess and Scott dive into the often-misunderstood topic of boredom and its crucial role in child development. They explore why parents fear their children being bored, how screens have become the default solution to downtime, and the surprising developmental benefits that emerge when children learn to navigate unstructured time. You’ll learn practical strategies for teaching children to transform boredom into creativity, including Jess' approach of "getting the good going" and mindfulness techniques for all ages. Whether you're a parent concerned about excessive screen time or an adult who's forgotten how to simply be present, this conversation offers valuable insights into reclaiming the lost art of boredom in our overstimulated world.Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: [email protected]. Credits:Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured FirstÂ
Learn more about The Anger Course here!
-------- Â
56:54
I Love My Kids, But I Resent My Partner—Now What? With Dr. Tracy D
In this insightful episode, psychologist and couples expert Dr. Tracy Dalgleish joins Jess to discuss the often unspoken challenges couples face after having children. Dr. Tracy shares both professional expertise and personal vulnerability as she explains why 69% of couples experience a decline in relationship satisfaction after having children, and offers practical strategies for addressing resentment, improving communication, and maintaining connection. Hear more from Dr. Tracy Dalgleish on Instagram. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: [email protected]. Credits:Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured FirstÂ
Learn more about The Anger Course here!
Join me, Jess VanderWier, a registered psychotherapist, mom of three, and founder of Nurtured First, along with my husband Scott, as we dive deep into the stories of our friends, favourite celebrities, and influential figures.
In each episode, we skip the small talk and dive into vulnerable and honest conversations about topics like cycle breaking, trauma, race, mental health, parenting, sex, religion, postpartum, healing, and loss.
We are glad you are here.
PS: The name Robot Unicorn comes from our daughter. When we asked her what we should name the podcast, she confidently came up with this name because she loves robots, and she loves unicorns, so why not? There was something about the playfulness of the name, the confidence in her voice, and the fact that it represents that you can love two things at once that just felt right.
UK