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In this episode, we break down the most common reasons children struggle with sleep and share gentle, effective ways to help them rest better. You’ll learn what’s normal, what may be disrupting your child’s sleep, and how to create healthier sleep habits without harsh sleep-training methods or leaving your child to cry alone. If you’re tired, overwhelmed, and searching for realistic sleep support that actually feels good as a parent, this conversation is for you. Want to learn more about supporting your child with sleep? Podcast Episode: “You Really Want To Talk About Sleep Training!?"…

Robot Unicorn

by Nurtured First · English · Kids & Family

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 h

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  1. E112 · 8 Jun 2026 · 25 min

    The Truth About Shy Kids

    In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess dives deep into the often misunderstood topic of supporting shy children. Listeners will learn the three main reasons children exhibit shyness and walk away with practical, compassionate strategies, such as the "step-back" method and role-playing, to help their slow-to-warm child navigate social situations. Whether you are raising a sensitive child or were a shy kid yourself, this episode offers the empowering insights and warm validation you need! Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code…

  2. E111 · 1 Jun 2026 · 32 min

    3 Reasons Your Child Misbehaves At School

    In this episode, Jess explains the three most common reasons why kids struggle with behaviour at school. She shares common reasons kids act out at school, even when things are going well at home, and gives practical solutions to help parents and educators support children! 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: podcast@robotunicorn.net . Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured…

  3. E110 · 25 May 2026 · 36 min

    6 Things About ADHD Parents Need To Know

    Today, Jess dives deep into a highly requested topic: Understanding and supporting the ADHD brain. Drawing from her clinical experience with neurodivergent children, she breaks down six crucial insights. If you want to understand the 'why' behind your child's behaviour and learn how to foster an environment where they can truly thrive, you won't want to miss this solo episode! Check out these episodes for more on supporting cognitive flexibility: Brain Stuckness: Why Kids Struggle With Flexibility (Part 1) Brain Stuckness: Reducing Power Struggles & Building Flexibility (Part 2) If you have…

  4. E108 · 11 May 2026 · 30 min

    How To Be Firm Without Yelling

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  5. E107 · 4 May 2026 · 1 hr 6 min

    Getting Honest About New Motherhood With Libby Ward

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  6. E106 · 27 Apr 2026 · 22 min

    Why “Stranger Danger” Doesn’t Protect Kids (Part 3)

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  7. E129 · 5 Oct 2026 · 39 min

    Sex and Intimacy After Kids With Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh

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  8. E128 · 28 Sep 2026 · 39 min

    School Refusal, Anxiety, And Separation Struggles (REVISIT)

    This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode. When your child refuses to go to school, what's really behind the struggle—and how can you help without dismissing their feelings or removing every challenge? Jess and Scott explore the overlapping roots of school refusal, from separation anxiety and post-pandemic disruptions to bullying, friendship difficulties, learning needs, and parental anxiety. They also discuss how sleep, screen-time boundaries, and overscheduled evenings can make school mornings harder. You’ll get tools to understand, support, and nurture your child through…

  9. E127 · 21 Sep 2026 · 40 min

    How To Handle Big After-School Meltdowns (REVISIT)

    This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode. Why is your child perfect at school, only to completely fall apart the moment they get home? This episode dives deep into the common but misunderstood phenomenon of 'After-School Restraint Collapse.' Jess and Scott will help you understand that these explosions are a sign that your child feels safest with you, and give you practical strategies—from co-regulation to creating a 'soft landing'—to help your child decompress and turn these challenging moments into opportunities for connection. This episode was originally released on…

  10. E126 · 14 Sep 2026 · 37 min

    Are You Raising A Spicy Nugget? with Loryn Brantz

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