What is attachment parenting, and why does it matter—especially now, as our kids grow into teens and tweens? In this powerful and insightful episode of Raising the Next Gen, we explore the deep connection between parenting styles, attachment theory, and youth mental health.

Joining me is Janany Jayanthikumar, a compassionate and experienced clinical social worker and educator, who brings clarity and wisdom to this topic. Together, we unpack the foundational research of Mary Ainsworth, a pioneering developmental psychologist whose work shaped our understanding of how early attachments form—and how they continue to impact our kids into adolescence and beyond.

We dive into questions many parents are asking themselves:

• What type of attachment style have I developed with my child?

• Is it too late to shift toward a more secure attachment?

• How does our relationship impact their emotional regulation and mental health?

• And most importantly: What can I do right now to support my teen or tween’s resilience?

We explore how recognizing your own parenting patterns can create a powerful ripple effect in your child’s life—and Janany suggests practical tools and easy-to-implement ideas to help you:

• Foster more secure connections with your child, no matter their age

• Approach mental health proactively, rather than reactively

• Spot early warning signs of emotional struggles

• Create open lines of communication that build trust and confidence

Whether you’re already familiar with attachment parenting or just starting to explore it, this episode offers both reassurance and inspiration to help you parent with greater confidence and connection.

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Learn more about Janany Jayanthikumar:

Janany has a Masters of Social Work from the University of Toronto with a specialization in health and mental health. She has diversified experience working in clinical and academic settings, including The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children (Sick Kids), The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), The Scarborough Health Network, the University of Toronto, York University, Lakehead University and Durham College and Seneca College.

As an experienced clinical social worker and educator, Janany has extensive knowledge utilizing and evaluating evidence-based practices. She is extremely passionate about educating the next generation of social workers, and providing quality clinical care that is equitable and culturally responsive. In addition to her clinical work, Janany has taught at various post-secondary institutions. She is also currently the Social Work Practice Consultant for International Students at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work and a Faculty-Field Liaison. Her areas of expertise include evidence-based practices, trauma and attachment, program development, and simulation.

Follow and connect with Janany on Instagram and LinkedIn to learn more from her about attachment parenting styles and mental health.

You can also work with Janany or book her for a speaking event through the Centre for Social Work Education.

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In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, I speak with Dr. Julia Sen, the "Possibility Psychologist™," about breaking the stereotype that the teen and tween years must be a difficult stage in parenting.

A major theme in this episode is the idea of being a “pattern breaker” or a “generational cycle changer.” Many of us were raised with discipline methods rooted in shame, compliance, and external validation. However, research and lived experience show that nurturing emotional intelligence and resilience in our children requires a different approach. By validating their feelings and modeling self-regulation, we create a foundation for lifelong emotional well-being.

We talk about mindset, understanding teen physiology and behaviour, creating a sense of belonging and fostering trust between parents and teen.

Plus, Dr. Sen shares her BEFAB method to help parents navigate this period with greater understanding and connection, so these years don't have to be dreaded or difficult. While challenges exist, the key is fostering mutual respect, adaptability, and curiosity about what works best for each unique child. Rather than forcing compliance, guiding children through self-awareness and autonomy helps them develop confidence and emotional security.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated when your child doesn’t immediately respond the way you’d like, or if you’ve caught yourself reacting in ways that mirror how you were raised, this episode offers encouragement and actionable steps. Parenting tweens and teens isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about ongoing growth, self-compassion, and a commitment to breaking old patterns.

Join us as we explore how small, intentional shifts can transform our relationships with our children, fostering deeper understanding and stronger family connections. Tune in and discover how you can support your teen’s emotional growth while also nurturing your own.

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Learn more about Dr. Julia Sen:

Dr. Julia Sen is a clinical and counselling psychologist with over 20 years of experience. She has a full-time private practice, is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, and workshop leader. She has focused on fertility counselling, parenting, and working with our inner child. Over the last few years, Julia has created transformational group programs for parents and for anyone interested in discovering the magic of their inner child. Her mission is for everyone to develop unconditional confidence in themselves and their children. Julia is the founder of The Habit of Heart™, a practice that builds security and belonging within ourselves, a key component to achieving compassion and confidence. She is also the founder of the IBY (I Believe in You) League™, a collective for South Asian career driven moms to rise, while raising unconditionally confident children, without the hustle or the guilt. She is mom to two amazing daughters, aged 20 and 23, and two adorable dogs! Julia is known for finding the possibility in every situation and as such is known as The Possibility Psychologist™.

Follow and connect with Dr. Julia Sen on Instagram and YouTube to learn more parenting tips.

To find out about Dr. Julia Sen's services, visit her website. If you're a South Asian parent, you can also learn about and join her IBY (I Believe in You) League™ membership program.

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Screen time battles? Online safety worries? You’re not alone! In this episode, I share personal experiences, expert insights, and practical tips for managing kids' tech use with safety, creativity, and balance.

We cover screen time guidelines, the three key purposes of tech, and essential online safety rules.

No one's doing this perfectly - and that's ok!