Episode 110: Parenting the Spicy Kid with Mary Van Geffen

What does it really mean to parent a “spicy” kid? In this episode, Rachael sits down with parenting expert and author Mary Van Geffen to talk about strong-willed, sensitive, and neurodivergent children and what parents can do when everyday parenting feels especially challenging.

Together, they discuss emotional regulation, parenting shame, boundaries, meltdowns, bedtime struggles, and the importance of doing our own inner work. Mary shares practical tools and compassionate strategies for staying connected to your child while also learning how to regulate yourself, repair after hard moments, and parent with more confidence.

Inside this episode:

What makes a child “spicy” and how to understand their unique temperament

Why parental self-regulation is one of the most important parenting tools

How childhood experiences can shape the way we parent

Navigating neurodivergence, diagnosis, and finding the right support

Practical strategies for managing meltdowns, tantrums, and big emotions

How routine, predictability, and connection can help sensitive kids thrive 

Setting firm boundaries while staying kind and connect 

The role of self-compassion, repair, and doing your own inner work

And so much more!