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Parents of the Year
We were never given a manual on how to parent. It is easy to get overwhelmed to know the right thing to do. There is so much contradictory information out there and everyone has their own advice. Parenting is a rewarding but messy, confusing, infuriating, guilt-inducing, and overwhelming journey. While it's easy to get lost, Andrew Stewart, a real dad, and Dr. Caroline Buzanko, a real mom, child psychologist, and parenting expert (who also happens to be married to Andrew) will help you get back on track. In each episode, Andrew and Caroline have open and honest chats about everything parenting. Join them in honesty, laughter, and tears (Caroline is a bit of a cry baby) as they help you navigate this journey of parenting. And, every so often, you may get some gems of expert advice. Our goal is to make your parenting journey less stressful, more forgiving, and more awesome. Please join us every Wednesday for new episodes of Parenting of the Year.
Parents of the Year
198. How Do We Help Kids Feel Seen When Their Needs Look Different?
What happens when a child feels invisible—and how can adults respond in a way that builds confidence, connection, and kindness?
In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Mark Perloe, a retired infertility physician turned children’s book author and grandfather, to talk about modern parenting through a grandparent’s lens. Mark shares the real family moments that inspired Milo’s Superpower, including sibling dynamics, screen struggles, emotional outbursts, and the quiet strengths that kids often carry unnoticed.
This conversation covers raising children across generations, respecting parenting boundaries as grandparents, supporting kids with big emotions, and using humour as a lifelong skill. You’ll hear honest stories about neurodiversity questions, screen time tension, emotional regulation, and how shared experiences—not stuff—shape children long after childhood.
Perfect for parents, grandparents, educators, and anyone raising or supporting kids today.
About Mark Perloe
Mark Perloe worked as a doctor specializing in IVF for 32 years. Now retired, Mark’s favorite thing to do is spend time with his two grandsons. He also enjoys spending time with his therapy dog, Andrew. The two of them travel all over to put smiles on people’s faces. He is thrilled to be writing his first children’s book!
Homework Activities for Adults (Parents, Grandparents, Caregivers)
1. The Superpower Conversation
Ask your child or teen:
“What do you think you’re really good at?”
Follow up with where they’ve seen it help others.
Resource: Paper, markers, or notes app to write or draw their “superpower.”
2. Screen Swap Challenge (One Evening)
Replace one screen session with a shared activity: cooking, walking, storytelling, or fixing something together.
Resource: A simple activity you already enjoy—no prep required.
3. Sibling Spotlight
Spend 10 uninterrupted minutes with each child separately in the same week. No correcting, no teaching—just attention.
Resource: Timer on your phone.
4. Humour Reset
When tension rises, ask:
“How could we make this moment lighter without ignoring feelings?”
Resource: Model it yourself first.
5. Memory Over Stuff Check-In
Before buying a gift, ask:
“Would a shared experience mean more here?”
Resource: Calendar for planning time together.
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