Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood
In their weekly podcast, Heather and Kristina dive into the “tricky terrain” of raising children and growing up in today’s world. With a blend of professional insight and personal stories, they offer practical tips, heartfelt advice, and plenty of humor. Whether you're a parent or caregiver, their discussions are designed to help you find joy and connection in the parenting journey. Tune in for a warm, engaging, and supportive resource for navigating the ups and downs of raising kids.
Heather Bouwman and Kristina Boersma are Clinical Social Workers and Support Service Directors for ODC Early Childhood Network, a division of ODC Network, in Holland, Michigan. For years, their parenting classes and unique curriculum have been a beloved offering to the parents at ODC Network’s innovative nature-based preschools. The ODC Network has made this podcast possible so that others can share in this offering and have access to discussions based on Heather and Kristina’s approach.
ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan. Since 2000, ODC Network has served over one million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and has conserved thousands of acres of habitat through restoration and preservation projects. ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.ODCNetwork.org
Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood
Discipline Series, Part 3 of 3
In the final episode of their 3-part series on Discipline, clinical social workers Heather and Kristina wrap things up with some practical, easy-to-apply strategies for parents. This time, they're focusing on the power of using an assertive voice in parenting. They emphasize the need for clear and direct communication—no room for questioning or extra politeness like "please" and "thank you" that can confuse kids.
To help manage resistance, they introduce a simple three-step process: empathy, expectation, and choice. It’s a strategy that allows parents to remain firm while still showing understanding. Heather and Kristina also recommend using visual aids and breaking tasks down into clear steps, helping children better grasp what's expected of them.
But, as they point out, making the shift to an assertive voice isn't always easy. It takes practice and consistency—especially for parents who are used to being passive or aggressive in their communication. They remind us that self-care and leaning on our village for support are key during this transition.
This episode is packed with valuable insights, encouraging parents to stay calm, stay consistent, and, most importantly, take care of themselves while navigating the challenges of this parenting adventure.
Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood is recorded and edited by Dave Purnell and produced by Jen Plante Johnson for the ODC Network in Holland, Michigan.
The ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan.
Since 2000, The ODC Network has served over a million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and conserved thousands of acres of native habitat through restoration and preservation projects.
The ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.odcnetwork.org.