Expert Spotlight: Marlene Spence—Creating connections, the parenting mindset and getting your kid to clean their room

Marlene Spence is a wife and mother of two energetic, playful kids who challenge her daily. She’s a psychology graduate with a specialty in behaviour science with almost two decades of experience working in schools providing educational resources and support to children and youth with behavioural challenges and special needs. Through her business, Cornerstone Family Services, she helps parents of school-aged kids who are feeling overwhelmed with their children’s behaviours and tantrums sort through what’s going on so they can understand the needs of their children—and begin to enjoy parenting again with some practical strategies.   Topics discussed:  Big emotions and the first step toward regulating them When the most formative years of childhood are and how you can build that special connection with them to help them shine and grow Simple tips for getting your kids to clean their rooms—and why it’s a challenging task for them in the beginning At what age you can start having your kids help you with chores around the house (you’ll be surprised!) How to navigate conversations with co-parents or other caregivers who have different parenting strategies And more! For more Marlene Spence, please visit: @cornerstonefs on Instagram Marlene Spence on the web   From our sponsors: Join the revolution and switch to leakproof underwear and wireless bras with Knix. Get 15% off your first order using promo code MOMHALO at checkout. Our friends over at mini mioche are our go-to shop for head-to-toe organic kids wardrobe essentials that look as good as they feel. Not only is each mini mioche piece ethically and sustainably produced here in Toronto, but 1% of all sales are donated to organizations and initiatives that support kids and help them thrive—a promise to customers that the better they do as a company, the more good they can do in the world.   *Warning—this podcast is completely unfiltered. If you are around young children, we suggest headphones. **Disclaimer: All opinions of our guests are their own and in no way represent those of Alana Kayfetz