In this episode, Chris and Pat sit down with Michelle Visser, a licensed psychotherapist, certified early intervention specialist, and Board member for the Friends of Brookline Public Health. We discuss the challenges of parenting in real time, specifically how to navigate those unexpected, difficult questions children ask when parents are least prepared, whether in traffic or right before bed. Michelle offers practical strategies for building emotional awareness, modeling empathy, and maintaining a strong, open connection with your children in an increasingly complex world.
Key Takeaways from Michelle Visser:
Don’t Rush the Answer: When a child asks a big or unexpected question about a difficult topic, it is okay to acknowledge it is a great question and ask for a few minutes to think so you can provide the best answer.
Seek Context: If a question is unclear, ask your child what made them think of it today. Getting more context helps you meet them where they actually are rather than assuming the question is more complicated than it is.
Model Emotional Honesty: It is healthy for children to see their parents experience emotions such as sadness or worry. Modeling these feelings in a stable way provides a safe space for children to practice their own feelings before they face the world.
Look for the Helpers: Inspired by Mr. Rogers, Michelle suggests helping children navigate dark or scary world events by identifying the people who are out there helping, such as firefighters, teachers, or volunteers.
The Open Door Policy: Remind your children that you are always available to talk and that they will not get in trouble for sharing information with you. Hearing the information is always more important than whether a choice was right or wrong.
Resources Mentioned:
Friends of Brookline Public Health Website: brooklinefbph.wixsite.com/brooklinefbph
Upcoming Parenting in Real Time Events:
Featuring expert panelists Michelle Visser (LMHC, Psychotherapist) and Matt DuBois (Ph.D., NCSP, Senior Director of Clinical Services & Social and Emotional Learning, PSB), moderated by John Kleschinsky, DrPH, Director of Public Health & Human Services.
In-Person: Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 PM, Hunneman Hall, Brookline Public Library (Brookline Village).
Virtual: Monday, March 30 at 6:30 PM Online.
Register to attend: https://brooklinehealthdept.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_brBVMuHnD0sI6sm
Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services: brooklinema.gov/health
Make a Donation: Visit brooklinecommunity.org and select Friends of Brookline Public Health Fund from the dropdown menu.
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified professional who can consider your individual needs and circumstances. Listeners should consult a qualified professional regarding their specific situation and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you hear on this podcast. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Friends of Brookline Public Health, the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services, Brookline Interactive Group (BIG), or any affiliated institutions. Use of this content is at your own risk.