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Robot Unicorn

Robot Unicorn

By: Nurtured First
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About this listen

Join me, Jess VanderWier, a registered psychotherapist, mom of three, and founder of Nurtured First, along with my husband Scott, as we dive deep into the stories of our friends, favourite celebrities, and influential figures. In each episode, we skip the small talk and dive into vulnerable and honest conversations about topics like cycle breaking, trauma, race, mental health, parenting, sex, religion, postpartum, healing, and loss. We are glad you are here. PS: The name Robot Unicorn comes from our daughter. When we asked her what we should name the podcast, she confidently came up with this name because she loves robots, and she loves unicorns, so why not? There was something about the playfulness of the name, the confidence in her voice, and the fact that it represents that you can love two things at once that just felt right.Robot Unicorn Parenting & Families Relationships Social Sciences
Episodes
  • What Every Parent Needs To Know About Sibling Conflict
    Jul 7 2025

    Tired of being the referee in constant sibling battles? This episode tackles a listener's question about managing the chaos of sibling play, especially between toddlers and preschoolers. We explore the developmental science behind why forcing a two-year-old to share is often a recipe for disaster. Discover a powerful mindset shift from being a frustrated 'referee' to an effective 'coach' who guides children through conflict. Learn practical strategies for fair turn-taking and how to build a loving, supportive team dynamic that will help your kids' relationship flourish for years to come.


    Listen to the impulse control episode Jess mentions in the episode here.


    Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.


    We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.


    Credits:

    Editing by The Pod Cabin

    Artwork by Wallflower Studio

    Production by Nurtured First



    Learn more about The Anger Course here!

    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • The Truth Behind Swearing And Rude Language In Kids
    Jun 30 2025

    When your sweet child suddenly starts using shocking language, it can be deeply unsettling - but this episode explains why it's often a normal developmental phase rather than a character flaw. Jess and Scott explore how children transition from physical to verbal aggression as they grow, and why words like 'stupid,' 'I hate you,' or even cursing serve different purposes from getting attention to expressing big emotions.


    You'll learn practical strategies for responding without accidentally reinforcing rude language, how to maintain boundaries without shaming, and the fascinating connection between ADHD and verbal outbursts. Whether your child is experimenting with shocking words or using language as a weapon when angry, this episode provides the developmental context and practical tools you need to navigate this challenging but normal phase.


    Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.


    We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.


    Credits:

    Editing by The Pod Cabin

    Artwork by Wallflower Studio

    Production by Nurtured First


    Learn more about The Anger Course here!

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Are Timeouts Really Evidence-Based?
    Jun 23 2025

    Jess and Scott dive deep into the controversial topic of timeouts, examining whether they're truly the evidence-based discipline method many claim. They explore how typical timeout implementation can potentially harm parent-child attachment and fail to teach children the emotional regulation skills they need.


    Listeners will gain insights into more developmentally appropriate alternatives like 'time-ins' and learn how to critically evaluate evidence-based parenting claims by asking: 'evidence-based for what outcome, under what conditions, and with what potential trade-offs?'


    Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.


    We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net.


    Credits:

    Editing by The Pod Cabin

    Artwork by Wallflower Studio

    Production by Nurtured First



    Learn more about The Anger Course here!

    Show More Show Less
    33 mins

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