Parenting Matters is a brand-new podcast from Early Childhood Matters, hosted by parenting educators Rebecca Walsh and Belann Giaretto. Each episode tackles real questions from real parents—covering everything from toddler tantrums to teen boundaries—with warmth, insight, and zero judgment.

Whether you’re in the thick of sleepless nights or navigating screen time battles, Parenting Matters is here to support you with practical advice and honest conversation.

Listen, share, and join the community—because your parenting matters.

"I love hearing Belann and Rebecca's voices-I can finally have your guidance right here in my living room! Thank you, thank you for doing this podcast!" 

LATEST:

Episode 6: Everyone in 7th Grade Was Invited to the Birthday Party Except Me!

In this episode of Parenting Matters, Rebecca and special guest host, Dr. Nina Kaiser of Practice SF, discuss the complexities of social dynamics in middle school, focusing on social exclusion, the importance of early intervention, and how parents can support their children through these challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for resilience, understanding, and effective communication between parents and children, as well as the significance of having at least one good friend. Dr. Kaiser also provides insights on when to seek professional help and the role of social media in shaping friendships.

Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

MORE EPISODES:


Introducing Parenting Matters - Listen now on Apple or Spotify.


Episode 1: Fostering Independent play in the toddler years: Learn how to teach the skill when your child is very resistant and why it's so important for their overall happiness and well being as adults - Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

Episode 2: Fostering Independence in the Preteen and Teen years (Learn how building life skills like chores and cooking, encouraging children to problem solve on their own, and allowing children to navigate their transportation contribute to their overall self-esteem and mental health. Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

Episode 3: You Can't Come to my Birthday Party: Learn how to respond with these and other playground woes, what to do if your child is the one doing the excluding and some suggestions for the modern day parenting dilemma: should you invite the whole class to the birthday party - Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

Episode 4: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? - For parents of young children (late preschool + K-5th grade)

You can make learning enjoyable, provide structure during Summer breaks, and empower your children to take charge of their experiences. Rebecca discusses tips for navigating transitions to Summer camps and balancing freedom with responsibility, along with strategies for engaging children in meaningful activities. Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

Links to other companies/podcasts mentioned in Ep 4:
Mighty Bambinis Evelyn Nichols Parent-Child Forest Class in Marin
Pixel Parenting: Brains, Screens, and Connection with Rebecca Walsh on Spotify or Apple
Why Boredom is Good for Your Toddler (Pixel Parenting) - Listen on Spotify or Apple
Summer Brain Quest

Episode 5: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? - For parents of young children (grades 6-10) With special guest host, Rebecca’s 15 year old son, Joey! Learn how to create balance with screens, IRL (In Real Life Activities) and how to use summer to level up (or discover) your passions and interests!

Rebecca and her teen son, Joey, discuss various summer activities and strategies for parents to engage their children during the summer months. They explore the importance of balancing free time with productive hobbies, navigating summer camps, and finding alternative activities. The conversation also touches on encouraging reading and learning, as well as utilizing online resources for last-minute opportunities.

Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

Links to other companies/podcasts mentioned in Ep 4&5:
Let Grow Project When Parents Step Back, Kids Step UP
Screen Sense IRL Summer Packet-Screen time alternatives, contracts, and positive creative uses of tech 
Pixel Parenting:
Pixel Parenting: What Parents need to now about video game research on Spotify or Apple

Pixel Parenting: Brains, Screens, and Connection with Rebecca Walsh on Spotify or Apple
Why Boredom is Good for Your Toddler (Pixel Parenting) - Listen on Spotify or Apple

 Joey's Instagram Channel (we don't recommend kids have an Instagram account until high school) - jdubmusic_

 

 

Supporting families on the road to connected and effective parenting.

parenting workshops * parent/toddler playgroups * presentations * private consultations

Email kellam@earlychildhoodmatters.org if you are interested in finding out about sliding scale tuition for our parenting series, mom’s groups, and playgroups. We are happy to help support parents who are in a situation where these courses might otherwise be cost prohibitive.

Our cancellation policy:

Full refund 30 days or more (less a 20% transaction fee), less than 14 days before the start of class a 40% refund will be granted, unless the participant finds a replacement to fill their spot, less than 7 days participants will be responsible for paying the full amount of the class/series price, unless they find a replacement participant to fill their spot. Please note that Summer camps are non-refundable.