Summer sounds dreamy—but for many moms, it brings a mix of freedom, overwhelm, and the pressure to "make it magical" while still keeping some structure.
In this episode, I'm joined by board-certified behavior analyst and mom Lauren Giuliano (Behavior Talk Mama) to talk about how to create a smoother, calmer, more enjoyable summer with your kids—without rigid schedules or constant power struggles.
Lauren shares practical, research-backed strategies to help you reduce tantrums, improve bedtime routines, and build simple daily rhythms that actually work for real families. We dive into how to balance flexibility with structure, why "neutral parenting" is a game-changer, and how small habit shifts can create big momentum for both moms and kids.
If you're heading into summer feeling excited but also a little anxious about the lack of routine, this conversation will give you the tools—and confidence—you need.
In This Episode, We Cover:
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How to create a flexible summer routine with kids (without strict schedules)
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The concept of "anchor points" in your day (meals, snacks, bedtime) to reduce chaos
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Behavior strategies to handle tantrums, refusal, and power struggles
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What "neutral, confident parenting" looks like in real life
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How to make bedtime easier in the summer months (even with later nights and more daylight)
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Why proactive parenting works better than reactive discipline
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Using visual schedules and daily planning to reduce constant questions and anxiety
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Simple ways to build connection time with your kids each day
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How to stop the all-day snacking cycle and improve mealtime behavior
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The 21-Day Momentum Challenge: building healthy habits with small, doable steps
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Why moms need structure too—and how to create it without burnout
About Lauren Giuliano
Lauren Giuliano is a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) who specializes in helping parents understand their child's behavior and create realistic, effective routines. She combines behavior science with real-life motherhood to give parents practical tools that reduce stress and build skills at the same time.
Resources & Links
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Follow Lauren on Instagram: @BehaviorTalkMama
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Explore her Better Bedtimes course for toddlers and kids
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Stay tuned for her 21-Day Momentum Challenge and upcoming behavior resources
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