The Parenting Cipher

Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed in your parenting journey, wondering if your dedication to your children is also causing you to lose touch with yourself? In this episode, Tanika Ray and Genie Dawkins dive deep into the balance of self-care and motherhood, the concept of invisible labor, and how conscious parenting can save lives.Episode Summary:Genie Dawkins opens up about feeling disconnected from herself during a challenging period as a parent and emphasizes the importance of self-care. Tanika Ray discusses the impact of mothers giving their all to their children, often benefiting the patriarchy, and the concept of invisible labor in motherhood. Together, they offer personal experiences on co-parenting, conscious parenting, and the importance of acknowledging individual roles in a child's life. They address inherited generational anxiety and trauma, discuss their children's struggles within societal pressures, and explore how their own upbringing has influenced their parenting styles. The episode also covers the effectiveness of different disciplinary approaches and the significance of acknowledging and apologizing for one's mistakes as a parent.Key Takeaways:- Recognizing the importance of self-care and not losing oneself in the role of a parent.- Understanding the concept of invisible labor and its exhaustion.- Value of open communication and understanding your child's emotions and rhythms over physical punishment.- Impact of generational trauma and anxiety on parenting and children's well-being.- Importance of allowing children to express themselves and embrace their individuality.- Balancing self-care with parental responsibilities and nurturing one's personal interests.Links and Resources:- Mamaste Podcast - Dr. Shefali's Book on Conscious Parenting- Child Trends Report on Generational AnxietyQuotes:- “In order to give your children the love and care they need, you must first learn to give it to yourself.” – Genie Dawkins- “Our labor as mothers goes unnoticed and often unappreciated, yet it’s the very foundation that keeps our families running.” – Tanika Ray- “Discipline should teach, not punish. It’s about understanding our children, not controlling them.” – Tanika RayShort Biography for Speakers:Genie Dawkins: Genie is a passionate advocate for conscious parenting and self-care. As a host of the Parenting Cipher podcast, she brings her personal experiences to light, helping other parents navigate the complexities of raising children while maintaining their own identity and well-being.Tanika Ray: An accomplished media personality and advocate for wellness and parenting, Tanika uses her platform to inspire mindful and self-aware parenting practices. She emphasizes the importance of individual expression and nurturing the unique attributes of each child, drawn from her transformative journey in conscious parenting.Tune in to this insightful episode that promises to offer guidance, solidarity, and practical advice for parents navigating the intricate balance of caring for oneself and one’s children. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review for The Parenting Cipher!

Are you wondering how to ease your special needs child's transition back to school and manage their anxieties effectively? In this episode, Genie Dawkins dives deep into preparing for the upcoming school year, providing essential strategies for parents of special needs children. She shares personal experiences, thoughtful advice, and practical tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of "The Parenting Cipher," host Genie Dawkins focuses on preparing special needs children for a successful start to the school year. Genie emphasizes the importance of early preparation, managing anxieties, and encouraging independence. She shares her personal journey with her son's struggles, offering actionable strategies like creating visual schedules, adjusting bedtime routines, and arranging school visits. Genie also discusses the significance of validating children's emotions, preparing role-playing scenarios, and connecting with teachers and school staff to establish a robust support network. Listeners will gain valuable insights and practical tips to make the back-to-school transition as seamless as possible for their special needs children.Key Takeaways:- Early Preparation: Start preparing early to manage anxiety effectively.- Visual Schedules: Create visual schedules to help children understand their daily routines.- Gradual Transitions: Make gradual changes to routines to ease children into the school schedule.- Holistic Sleep Solutions: Tackle sleep issues with holistic methods rather than sleep aids.- Role-Playing Scenarios: Use role-playing to build confidence and prepare for school routines.- School Visits: Arrange pre-school visits during quieter times to familiarize children with their environment and teachers.- Back-to-School Kits: Utilize transition kits containing visual schedules, social stories, and sensory items.- Parental Advocacy: Connect with special education coordinators and engage in parenting groups.- Empowering Independence: Encourage small responsibilities to build independence in children.Links and Resources:- Visual Schedule Printables - Back-to-School Transition Tips- Parenting Groups for Special Needs- Holistic Sleep Solutions for KidsQuotes:- "Start preparing early to set your child up for success and manage those back-to-school anxieties." - Genie Dawkins- "Validating your child's emotions and communicating positively can significantly alleviate their fears and build their confidence." - Genie Dawkins- "Building a strong support network with teachers and school staff is crucial in ensuring that your child's needs are met." - Genie DawkinsSpeaker Biography:Genie Dawkins: Genie Dawkins is a dedicated parent and the host of "The Parenting Cipher" podcast. As a parent of a special needs child, Genie is passionate about providing support, resources, and expert insights to other parents facing similar challenges. Her personal experiences with her son's anxiety, bullying, and sleep issues motivate her to share practical strategies that empower parents to advocate for their children's education and well-being.We hope you find this episode of "The Parenting Cipher" both informative and encouraging. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review to join our supportive community!

Wondering How to Maintain a Summer Routine While Keeping Your Sanity? In this episode of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins shares valuable insights on curating a balanced and engaging summer schedule for kids, without compromising parents' well-being. From managing sleep disruptions to keeping children entertained with minimal screen time, Genie provides practical tips that can transform your summer experience.Episode Summary:Join Genie Dawkins in this insightful episode as she delves into strategies for creating effective summer routines for children, especially those with special needs. Genie emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents, planning intentional breaks, and involving children in daily activities. She answers listener questions about balancing routines, addressing behavior challenges, and engaging children without screens. Genie rounds off by offering supportive resources through the Parenting Cipher platform and reminding parents that striving for the best is more important than seeking perfection.Key Takeaways:- Importance of taking breaks and delegating responsibilities- Tips for maintaining consistent schedules, including bedtimes and snack times- Utilizing digital tools like Google Maps to plan personal breaks- Addressing challenges like sleep disruptions, behavior management, and sensory overload- Use of visual tools like planners or whiteboards to keep track of schedules- Engaging children in planning and setting goals- Ideas for fun and educational outdoor activities and reading routines- Self-care strategies such as networking and trying new activitiesLinks and Resources:The Parenting CipherGoogle Maps for Finding Local Cafes/Bookstores(https://www.google.com/maps)AudibleReading Resources for Kids Library Summer Reading ProgramsHobby Town and Hobby Lobby Meal Services for Busy ParentsJoyful Family PlannerKids Summer PlannerQuotes:- "Striving to do the best rather than seeking perfection is key to a happy, balanced summer." - Genie Dawkins- "Planning intentional breaks is crucial. Use Google Maps to find a nearby café or bookstore and recharge." - Genie Dawkins- "Involving children in planning goals and routines makes them feel valued and engaged." - Genie DawkinsShort Biography for Speaker:Genie Dawkins is the compassionate and insightful host of The Parenting Cipher. As a dedicated parent and advocate, Genie offers practical advice and resources to help families navigate the complexities of parenting special needs children. With her relatable anecdotes and professional tips, Genie empowers parents to create harmonious, structured, and engaging environments for their children.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and check out the show notes for additional resources. You can also share your tips and questions on our website or social media. Remember, every small step you take can lead to a fulfilling and memorable summer for you and your family.

Are you worried about your teen's online safety and how much control they should have over their technology?In this episode, Genie Dawkins talks about the emotional and practical journey of giving her son, Zavier, more control over his technology as he turns 13. From setting up recovery options to dealing with location settings, Genie shares her reflections on the responsibilities that come with turning 13. This episode highlights the importance of open conversations between parents and children about technology use, offering insights from previous expert interviews and personal experiences.Key Takeaways:- The significance of turning 13 and the responsibilities that come with it.- Steps for setting up technology settings safely with your teenager.- The importance of parental involvement in conversations about technology and responsibility.- Lessons from experts Jody Aman, Simone Alicia, and Elizabeth on guiding teenagers in managing online safety.- Impact on a teenager's sense of agency, self-esteem, and responsibility.- Strategies for ensuring clear expectations and boundaries regarding technology use.Timestamps:03:58 Google account supervision for kids over 1309:42 "Why not empower him with tech?"10:51 Giving children agency reduces anxiety and rebellion.15:57 Reflecting on conversations, empowering son's growing independence.18:06 YouTube ads and parental controls for kids.Links and Resources:"Black Gold" by Flying Lotus: From the Yasuke soundtrack, symbolizing Zavier’s journey into a new identity as he turns 13.Google Safety Center [Google SafetNational Online Safety: (https://nationalonlinesafety.com/)Family Online Safety Institute: (https://www.fosi.org/Google Family Link: https://families.google/familylink/Jodi Aman : https://jodiaman.com/Elizabeth Milovidov: https://www.digitalparentingcoach.com/Dr. Simone Alicia: https://www.theselfesteemdoctor.com/Quotes:1. "Turning 13 is a milestone, not just for our children, but for us as parents as we balance their newfound independence with ensuring they are safe." – Genie Dawkins2. "Conversations about technology use and boundaries are essential. It's about building trust and setting clear expectations." – Genie Dawkins3. "Empowering our teenagers with responsibilities can boost their self-esteem and sense of agency, but we have to guide them in managing those responsibilities." – Genie DawkinsSpeaker Biographies:Genie DawkinsGenie Dawkins is a dedicated and passionate advocate for parents navigating the challenges of raising children in a tech-savvy world. As the host of "The Parenting Cipher," she shares her experiences and insights into effective parenting strategies, often inspired by her journey with her own children. Genie’s candid reflections and thoughtful conversations help listeners understand and tackle the complexities of modern parenting.Join us in this episode as we delve into the journey of empowering our teenagers with the right technological tools while ensuring their safety and growth. Tune in to "The Parenting Cipher" and be part of the conversation!

Are you wondering how to boost your child's self-esteem and why it's so essential for their emotional and educational resilience? In this enlightening episode of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins is joined by Dr. Simone Alicia, renowned self-esteem coach and founder of a self-esteem academy. They delve into practical strategies for enhancing self-esteem at home and discuss the significant role it plays in a child's development and well-being.Key Takeaways:- Importance of modeling positive self-talk and behavior to reinforce good self-esteem in children.- Role of social-emotional learning in children's development and how parents can integrate practices into their daily routines.- Dr. Simone Alicia’s insights into using affirmation and gratitude games to engage and teach children about their self-worth.- The impact of self-esteem on children's critical thinking skills and confidence.- The importance of understanding and adapting to different learning styles to support children with special educational needs.Timestamps:1:49 Negative thoughts have a chemical impact.18:37 Prepare for ongoing education and self-improvement.25:05 Confidence and self esteem are interconnected forces.26:56 Build genuine self-esteem, confidence, self-assurance. Follow inner guidance.35:52 Story emphasizes importance of self-assuredness and calm.41:28 Studied neuro linguistic programming for behavioral change.43:12 Nurturing self-awareness and positivity in youth.53:16 Seeking solutions when feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities.58:26 Empower yourself through academy for teaching advantage.01:07:00 Incorporate activities into your daily routine for balance.Link and Resources:- Dr. Simone Alicia's Self-Esteem Academy: https://www.theselfesteemdoctoracademy.com/- The Self-Esteem Doctor: https://www.theselfesteemdoctor.com/Quotes:- "Self-esteem is more than feeling good about oneself; it is about having the resilience to tackle challenges and the confidence to explore new opportunities." — Dr. Simone Alicia- "Every interaction with your child is an opportunity to build their self-esteem." — Genie DawkinsAbout the Speakers:- Genie Dawkins is a passionate advocate for children's education and parenting strategies. She hosts "The Parenting Cipher" to provide parents with resources and insights for handling various parenting challenges. Genie combines her personal experiences with expert advice to foster a supportive community for parents navigating the educational system.- Dr. Simone Alicia is a self-esteem coach and the enthusiastic founder of a self-esteem academy designed to empower children and parents. With a background in educational psychology and a heartfelt dedication to fostering healthy self-esteem, Dr. Alicia’s approach involves engaging, tailor-made content and practical strategies for everyday parenting. Connect with Dr.Simone on IG @drsimonealiciaTune in to this episode for an invaluable conversation that could change the way you support your child’s growth and self-esteem. Whether at home, school, or in the community, learn how to be the role model your child needs for developing genuine confidence and self-worth.

Have you ever wondered how lack of assistive technology in schools can affect your child's education, especially if they have been diagnosed with neurological behavioral conditions like dyslexia or ADHD? In this enlightening episode, Genie Dawkins dives into the critical role of assistive technology in aiding students' learning processes and advocates steps to ensure these resources are accessible in public schools, particularly those in inner-city areas.In This Episode:Genie Dawkins shares her personal struggle with securing assistive technology for her son and uses her experience to offer insight and advice for other parents in similar positions. She discusses the disparity between the resources available in underfunded public schools versus private schools and stresses the importance of parents' advocacy to bridge this gap.Key Takeaways:- Understanding the spectrum of assistive technologies and their significance in supporting students with disabilities.- Navigating the challenges presented by the underfunding of assistive technology in public schools.- Practical steps to advocate for assistive technology, including knowing your legal rights and collaborating with educators.- The benefits of assistive technology in not only aiding academic success but also boosting student confidence and independence.Links and Resources:IDEA Act National Center on Accessible Educational MaterialsCenter for Parent Information and ResourcesWrights LawUnderstanding Assistive Technology for Your Child's Academic SuccessTime Stamps:07:38 Adapting assistive technology to support students in need.10:08 Underfunded schools impact children's education and support.14:10 Assistive technology helps students focus on comprehension.17:08 Schools may lack awareness and resources for assistive technology.20:15 Special education consultant advocates for technology access.22:15 Closing the gap for neurodiverse kids is essential.28:05 Instructions sent for child's independent learning.29:28 Use speech-to-text to ensure accountability in schools.Quotes:"Assistive technology is not just a tool; it's a bridge to unlocking our children's potential." - Genie Dawkins"Every child deserves the right tools to succeed, and sometimes, it's up to us as parents to build that toolkit." - Genie DawkinsSpeaker Biography:Genie Dawkins is a devoted mother and dynamic advocate for children's education rights, especially those with special educational needs. With her insightful podcast, The Parenting Cipher, Genie empowers parents with knowledge and strategies to support their children's educational journey and advocate for necessary resources, including assistive technology.Tune into this episode for a deep dive into how assistive technologies can revolutionize learning for students with special needs and how you can play a pivotal role in that transformative process.

Are you finding it hard to stay calm and present during the hectic everyday life of parenting? In this episode of The Parenting Cipher, Josephine Atluri sheds light on how mindfulness can transform your parenting journey. Sit back and join hosts Genie Dawkins and Josephine Atluri as they dive deep into embracing mindfulness amidst the chaos of raising kids.Episode Summary:Josephine Atluri, a mom to seven children through international adoption, IVF, and surrogacy, shares how her challenging journey led her to embrace mindfulness and meditation. Both Genie and Josephine explore their initial skepticism towards these practices and discuss various accessible strategies for incorporating mindfulness into daily routines. This episode debunks common myths, highlights the simplicity of mindfulness practices, and provides actionable advice for integrating mindfulness moments throughout your day to foster a more grounded and calm parenting approach.Key Takeaways:- Mindfulness can be practiced in simple, scalable ways starting with even just one minute a day.- It is natural for the mind to wander during mindfulness practices; the key is returning focus without judgment.- Incorporating mindfulness into daily activities can greatly aid in handling stress and enhancing clarity and presence within family interactions.- There are diverse ways to practice mindfulness, ensuring that there is something for everyone—there is no "one right way."- Even moments of supposed failure, like falling asleep during meditation, are part of the journey toward more mindful living.Links and Resources:- 5 Minute Mindfulness for Parents - Check out Josephine Atluri’s book to explore easy and quick mindfulness exercises.- Mindful.org - A useful resource for beginners and seasoned practitioners looking for tools to deepen their practice.- Headspace - An app offering guided meditation sessions and mindfulness training.Quotes:- "Mindfulness is not about getting it right; it's about being aware of the present and learning from it," - Josephine Atluri.- "The beauty of mindfulness is in its flexibility; it bends to fit into our lives uniquely," - Genie Dawkins.About the Speakers:Josephine Atluri is an expert in meditation and mindfulness training, specialized in helping individuals overcome adversity through mindfulness. She is the author of "5 Minute Mindfulness for Pregnancy" and a mom of seven, whose journey through adoption, IVF, and surrogacy has deeply influenced her practices and teachings. You can listen to Josephine's Podcast Responding to Life on Apple and follow her on IG @josephineratluriGenie Dawkins, co-host at The Parenting Cipher, is a passionate advocate for children’s rights and a vocal proponent for parental involvement in education and personal development. Through her work, she aims to empower parents with the tools needed to advocate effectively for their children. Delve into this insightful discussion on "Embracing Mindfulness in Parenting" and discover how small, mindful moments can lead to significant changes in your parenting and personal well-being.

Are you feeling overwhelmed about understanding how assistive technology can support your child’s learning? In this episode of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins clarifies the often misunderstood world of assistive technology, sharing her own experiences and insights to shed light on how this resource can be tapped to unlock your child's full academic potential.In This Episode:- Genie delves into what assistive technology is and how it can level the playing field for children with disabilities.- Discover the range of assistive technology, from low-tech solutions like pencil grips to high-tech software for speech-to-text functionality.- Learn the significance of ensuring your child not only receives these technologies but is also adept at using them.- Understand the institutional hesitancy around acknowledging and providing assistive technology, and prepare for the forthcoming discussion on challenging schools to check the assistive technology box on IEPs.Key Takeaways:- The Definition: Assistive technology includes any item, equipment, or system that enhances the functional capabilities of children with disabilities.- Importance of Early Implementation: Assistive technology can be introduced as early as pre-K or kindergarten to support a child's educational journey.- Low to High-Tech: Ranging from pencil grips and planners to sophisticated computer programs, assistive tech is varied and adaptable to each child’s needs.- Empowering Learning: The proper use of assistive technology, coupled with quality instruction, can significantly impact a student’s independence and academic achievement.- Next Steps: Genie will continue the conversation on assistive technology, discussing how parents can advocate for its inclusion in their child’s education plan and hold schools accountable for their child’s success.Links and Resources:- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)- Learning Ally - Sora Reading App- Read and Write- Article: [Benefits of Assistive Technology in Special Education](#)Stay tuned for part two of our conversation on assistive technology in a future episode of The Parenting Cipher, where Genie will dive deeper into advocating for your child's needs in the realm of educational technology. 

In This Episode Summary:In an enlightening conversation, Kiva Schuler and Genie Dawkins delve deep into the tenets of peaceful parenting, reflecting on the pivotal role of trust, the detrimental impacts of shame, and the power of patience and empathy in the parent-child dynamic. They share personal stories, one being Genie's heartening tale of her son with autism and anxiety, and discuss how recognizing a child's emotions and fostering self-advocacy shapes a healthier family relationship. From challenging the status quo to mindful discipline, this episode is a thought-provoking dialogue on breaking generational cycles and embracing the authenticity of parenting.Key Takeaways:1. Building Trust: Creating a safe environment where children feel comfortable coming to adults with their problems.2. Avoiding Shame and Punishment: Recognizing that punitive measures can erode trust and lead to children hiding their issues.3. Empathy and Understanding: The importance of listening to children's worries and validating their emotions without downplaying them.4. Self-Patience and Growth: Encouraging parents to be patient with themselves and their children, acknowledging the journey of personal growth for both.5. Cultural Consideration in Parenting Advice: Kiva Schuler's introspection on the authoritative voice in the parenting space.6. Promotion of Children's Autonomy: Celebrating milestones that recognize growing independence in children.7. Embracing Failure and Learning: Allowing children to face the natural consequences of their decisions as a fundamental learning process.8. Legacy and Healing: Overcoming ancestral traumas and acknowledging inherited parenting styles that may be limiting.9. Role of the Inner Child in Parenthood:*Understanding and healing one's own childhood experiences to better serve as a parent.10. Peaceful Parenting Defined: Understanding peaceful parenting as non-permissive, non-punitive, and rooted in connection and guidance.Links and Resources:- Giant Institute Parent Coaching http://jaiinstitute.forparenting.com/- The Peaceful Parenting Revolution, by Kiva Schuler https://www.amazon.com/The-Peaceful-Parenting-Revolution/Powerful Quotes:- "It's critical that we build an environment where our children run to us, not away from us when trouble arises." — Kiva Schuler- "We must learn to sit with the discomfort of our children's failures, as it is through them that they will learn the most." — Genie Dawkins- "Parenting is not about perfecting our children, it's about guiding them through the unique journey of becoming who they are meant to be." — Kiva Schuler- "In parenting, we not only raise our children but also the child within us." — Genie Dawkins- "Peaceful parenting is about leading with empathy, compassion, and the understanding that teaching trumps any form of coercion." — Kiva SchulerGuest:Kiva Schuler is a devoted advocate for children's rights and a maven of growth through mindful parenting. Nestled in the heart of Kiva's philosophy is the conviction that to foster capable, wise, and independent children, adults must first embark on their own journeys of maturity and self-improvement. For Kiva, parenting transcends the traditional boundaries of rearing young ones; it becomes a transformative process where adults and children evolve together.Connect: IG Kiva_schuler Website:https://www.jaiinstituteforparenting.com/