Feb 27 2025 4 mins
Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting, and not lose your, well… you know.
TODAY'S QUESTION:
"How can I handle my child constantly whining?"
Whining - it’s like nails on a chalkboard for parents. Whether it’s the drawn-out “Moooooommm!” or the never-ending “But I don’t wannaaaa…,” it can be exhausting to deal with all day long. But here’s the good news: whining isn’t a forever thing, and you can break the habit!
In this episode, Vanessa shares practical strategies to reduce whining while teaching your child how to communicate their needs in a more effective way. She explains why kids whine, how to set boundaries without power struggles, and what to do to make sure their needs are met before the whining even starts.
TUNE IN TO LEARN:
- Why kids whine and what they’re actually trying to express
- How to respond in a way that doesn’t reinforce whining
- Simple phrases to teach your child so they use their regular voice
- How to check for unmet needs that could be triggering whining
- Why consistency is key in breaking the whining habit
TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Whining isn’t personal, it’s a learned behavior. The more we give in, the more kids will use it. But by staying consistent, modeling calm communication, and giving them the tools to express their needs, we can teach them a better way to get their message across—without the ear-piercing tones.
Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!
120 COPING SKILLS
https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills
CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE
https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge
SUBMIT QUESTIONS for CONSULT A COUNSELOR:
https://qrco.de/consultacounselor
WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:
https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus
GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT!
https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful
Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice.
STAY CONNECTED:
Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast
Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus
DISCLAIMER:
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.