Not So Normal Parenting | Enneagram, Myers Briggs, Personality, Neurodivergence, Emotional Intelligence

37. Are You an Highly Sensitive, Impatient, or Angry Parent? Here are 3 Ways Enneagram Types 4, 6 and 8 Can Find Control, Calm and Connection

In this episode, we’re tackling a common struggle for many parents: reactivity—especially for those in the Enneagram reactivity triad: Types 4, 6, and 8. If you often feel frustrated or overwhelmed in those tough parenting moments, this episode is for you.
What you’ll learn today:
How to Hold Realistic Expectations for yourself and your child’s behavior.
How to Harness Your Triggers so they no longer control your reactions.
How to Heal Through Guided Thoughts, personalized for your Enneagram type.
If you’ve ever been told that you just need to be more patient, but it only makes you feel worse, this episode offers a fresh perspective. It’s not about squeezing out more patience—it’s about shifting your mindset and understanding your triggers to foster more peaceful, connected relationships with your kids. Tune in as we break down these tools and share practical mantras tailored for Types 4, 6, and 8!
 
Take my FREE child temperament test: https://wendygossett.com/child-inner-drive-assessment-product/
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Facebook Podcast Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565445936367
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram: Wendy.Gossett
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/wendygossett
 

36. Understanding the Reactivity Triad: How Types 4, 6 and 8 Express Emotions, Seek Attention, and 4 Ways to Help

Welcome back to our 9-part series on the Enneagram triads! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the Reactivity Triad, which includes Types 4, 6, and 8—personalities that tend to respond to stress with emotional intensity and immediate reactions. These types externalize their feelings when they don’t get what they want or when their needs are unmet, often displaying frustration, anxiety, or anger. We’ll explore the three key aspects of how these types cope: how they process emotions outwardly, why they react so strongly, and what they seek from others through their emotional responses.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How Type 4s express deep emotional intensity, often seeking validation and understanding from others when they feel unseen or misunderstood.
How Type 6s react with anxiety and doubt, testing loyalty and seeking reassurance in moments of insecurity or uncertainty.
How Type 8s respond with assertiveness and anger, seeking strength and control in their environment to avoid feeling vulnerable.
We’ll also share four practical strategies to help you support your reactive child and navigate their emotional outbursts:
Acknowledge their feelings
Provide reassurance or understanding
Teach emotional regulation
Maintain your own calm presence
Join us as we uncover how these intense emotional reactions can be understood and managed, allowing for deeper connection and growth within the family.
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Facebook Podcast Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565445936367
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/wendygossett
 
 
 

35. Understanding the Positive Outlook Types: Exploring Enneagram Types 2, 7, and 9

In this episode, "Understanding the Positive Outlook Types: Exploring Enneagram Types 2, 7, and 9," we kick off a 9-part series by diving into the Harmonic Triads of the Enneagram. We explore the Positive Outlook Triad, focusing on:
Type 2 (The Helper): Learn how Type 2s maintain harmony by focusing on others' needs, often neglecting their own, and how they can grow by embracing self-care and acknowledging their own emotions.
Type 7 (The Enthusiast): Discover how Type 7s avoid discomfort by seeking constant excitement and reframing negative experiences, and the importance of slowing down to engage with deeper emotions for personal growth.
Type 9 (The Peacemaker): Understand how Type 9s seek inner peace by avoiding conflict and focusing on positive experiences, and the necessity of stepping into their own needs to foster deeper connections.
Tune in to learn how understanding these patterns can lead to greater self-awareness, resilience, and a more fulfilling life.
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Facebook Podcast Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565445936367
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/wendygossett

34. How Self Control Indicates Future Success; 3 Tactical Parenting Strategies From The Marshmallow Experiment.

Did you know that a simple marshmallow can predict your child's future success? In this episode, we dive into the Stanford Marshmallow Experiment, a groundbreaking study packed with insights for parents. Here’s what you’ll learn:
The Power of Delayed Gratification: Understand how a child's ability to wait for a reward is linked to greater success in academics, health, and social skills.
Consistency Builds Trust and Self-Control: Discover how consistent parenting, with clear rewards and consequences, helps children develop the self-discipline needed for long-term achievements.
The Role of Clear Expectations: Learn why setting clear rules and guidelines is crucial for enhancing your child’s decision-making skills and ability to delay gratification.
We’ll also explore how personality plays into these dynamics and offer practical tips for parents. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to set their child on the path to a thriving future!
 
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Facebook Podcast Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565445936367
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/wendygossett

33. Anxiety: Symptoms, Triggers and Coping Strategies with Dr. Jaylynne Koch

Tune in to Episode 33 of Not So Normal Parenting as Wendy discusses the important topic of childhood anxiety  with Dr. Jaylynne Koch, Developmental Psychologist, counselor and play therapist. 
Topics covered are:
How personality factors into anxiety.
Nontypical symptoms that may not look like anxiety.
How anxiety and ADHD can be interchangeable.
The four triggers: Physical, The Unknown, Incongruance and Shoulds.
Coping Strategies such as coregulation, externalizing, exposure therapy and attachment.
The importance of “special playtime”, consistency in parenting and managing transitions.
Dr. Jaylynne Koch  https://www.facebook.com/BloomBetween
What to Do When You Worry Too Much by Dawn Huebner and Bonnie Matthews
The Worry Wars Paris Goodyear-Brown
Guide to Special Playtime Beth Richey, Tammi Van Hollander https://youtu.be/GBNB2IZhfOA?si=mm0Hz24ZGUU8BAAY
 
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Facebook Podcast Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565445936367
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/wendygossett

32. Socially Awkward? Anxious? Defiant? Or ADHD? ENFP Dr. Brandon Talks About Symptoms and Treatment

I am so thrilled to have Dr. Brandon, pediatrician and founder of Colorado Kid's Pediatrics, to chat about how traits like social awkwardness, anxiety, defiance, OCD, homework struggles or impulsivity could be symptoms of ADHD.
 
This episode will be beyond helpful if you have a child that is exhibiting any of these traits: Many parents don't realize that all of these behaviors can be symptoms of ADD or ADHD which are on the rise due to all the stimulation children are experiencing in this generation of screens. In this episode we talk about:
 
Common trends Symptoms and how to get a diagnosis
Treatment, including:
parenting strategies,
diet,
acupuncture and acupressure,
medications and
personality factors like being an SP or and P type as well as a child with introverted sensing, introverted feeling or introverted intuition and a tendency to wander off inside their mind.
 
Dr. Brandon is founder of Colorado Kid's Pediatrics and Trekwise which is an integrated approach to behavioral health with quick and efficient telehealth sessions and affordable cost sharing.
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett
 

31. INTJ Enneagram Type 1 Mom and ENFP Type 7 Daughter: Parenting Your Opposite

In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the dynamic world of an INTJ Type 1 mother raising her free-spirited ENFP Type 7 daughter. With a focus on the contrasts and complements between the thinking and feeling brains, we explore how these personality types uniquely influence their parenting and child-rearing experiences. Shana, an INTJ mother known for her structured approach and keen sense of order, shares her personal journey towards understanding and embracing her daughter Savannah's exuberant and spontaneous ENFP personality. This episode sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of letting her free-spirited child learn valuable life lessons through experience, while also emphasizing the importance of parental self-awareness in fostering a nurturing environment for vastly different personalities.
 
Gain insights into:
Balancing Thinking and Feeling: Strategies for integrating a rational, organized approach with a need for emotional and creative expression, ensuring both mother and daughter thrive.
 
Embracing Free-Spirited Learning: How the mother has learned to loosen the reins and allow her daughter the freedom to explore the world, make mistakes, and grow from them in her own unique way.
 
Parental Self-Awareness: The crucial role of self-reflection in parenting, especially when dealing with personality types that starkly contrast with one's own. Shana discusses how understanding her own biases and limitations has been key to her growth as a parent.
 
Navigating Opposite Characteristics: A deep dive into the day-to-day interactions and long-term planning that come with managing differing needs and desires, highlighting both the struggles and the beautiful moments of connection.
 
Join us for a heartfelt and practical conversation that not only highlights the complexities of such diverse personality combinations but also provides real-world advice for parents facing similar challenges. Whether you’re an INTJ, ENFP, or any other personality type, this episode offers valuable lessons on patience, understanding, and love in the face of differences.
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett
 

30. Screens and Your Child's Mental Health: Tips for Tempering Technology

Today’s episode tackles the critical issue of smartphone use and excessive screen time among children, specifically focusing on Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012. As a parent to two "Zoomers," the host shares personal insights and expert research to confront the rising mental health challenges faced by today's youth. This discussion will cover:
Impact on Brain Development: Highlighting how screen time can negatively affect the frontal cortex of children's brains, impairing impulse control and mirroring the effects seen in substance addiction.
Social and Emotional Consequences: Examining the decline in face-to-face interactions among children, which contributes to increased feelings of loneliness and depression, as personal connections are replaced by digital interactions.
The Addictive Nature of Screens: Discussing the need for genuine real-life connections and addressing the compelling allure of screens that often distract from these vital interactions.
Responsible Screen Use: Offering strategies to help parents develop plans where technology supports developmental goals rather than detracts from them. This includes setting boundaries and being proactive about screen time management.
Practical Measures and Support: Providing actionable tips and resources to help parents create a balanced digital environment in their homes. This support aims to mitigate the adverse effects of screen time while promoting beneficial developmental and social activities.
Drawing insights from Jonathan Haidt’s "The Anxious Generation," this episode serves as a call to action for parents to engage deeply with their children’s digital habits and help foster a healthier, more balanced approach to technology use. Whether dealing with a young child’s first foray into digital devices or managing a teenager’s screen habits, this episode offers valuable guidance and support for navigating the challenges of the digital age.
 
Enable Parental Controls:
Activate parental controls on devices to restrict access to age-inappropriate content and apps.
Use settings to prevent in-app purchases and downloads without parental approval.
Set Up Content Filters:
Configure content filters on home Wi-Fi routers to block inappropriate websites and limit screen time across all connected devices.
Disable Notifications:
Turn off non-essential notifications to minimize distractions and reduce the compulsion to check the device frequently.
Enable Built-In Device Features:
Apple Screen Time: Provides insights into usage, allows for setting app limits, and offers Downtime scheduling.
Google Family Link: Manages screen time, approves app downloads, and sets device bedtime.
Create a Family Media Plan:
Develop a written agreement that outlines when, where, and how screens can be used. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers a customizable family media plan tool.
Enable blue light filters or "Night Mode" to reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality by decreasing exposure to blue light before bedtime.
Use Screen Time Management Apps:
Qustodio: Monitors screen time, blocks inappropriate content, and provides detailed reports.
OurPact: Allows parents to schedule screen time, block apps, and set daily limits.
Screen Time: Tracks usage, sets time limits, and rewards children for completing chores or homework.
Parental Control Apps:
Net Nanny: Filters content, monitors social media, and sets screen time limits.
Bark: Monitors text messages, emails, and social media for signs of cyberbullying and other issues.
Norton Family: Tracks online activity, sets time limits, and provides location tracking.
Educational Apps:
Khan Academy: Offers educational content in various subjects, encouraging productive screen use.
Duolingo: Helps kids learn new languages in a fun, engaging way.
Focus and Productivity Apps:
Forest: Encourages focus by growing a virtual tree while the app is open and in use for productive tasks.
Stay Focused: Blocks distracting apps and websites to help children stay on task.
Device Settings and Safeguards
 
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett

29. Master the Morning Routine: Tips for a Smooth Back to School Transition

 
In this episode, we dive deep into the back-to-school season, a time both exciting and daunting for parents and children alike. As some families have already begun the new academic year, the focus shifts to establishing a productive morning routine—one that sets the tone for a successful day ahead.
Benjamin Franklin famously said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." This wisdom underscores our discussion as we explore practical strategies to help your family avoid morning chaos and start the day with positivity and purpose. We cover:
Conducting a Family Meeting: How to effectively discuss the new school year and morning routines.
Embracing Emotions: Acknowledging the sadness of summer ending while fostering excitement for new beginnings.
Highlighting the Positives: Sharing the exciting aspects of starting a new school year.
Creating a Collaborative Routine: Working together to establish clear, effective morning habits.
Inspiring Morning Motivation: Encouraging kids to rise and shine with enthusiasm.
From the emotional impact of summer's end to the nuts and bolts of a streamlined morning routine, we provide you with all the tools you need. This episode is filled with tips, from setting up a visual schedule to positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring your children feel prepared and motivated.
Join us as we help you transform your family's morning routine from dreaded to delightful, ensuring every school day starts on the right foot. Whether you're adjusting to school routines or seeking a mid-semester refresh, this episode is your go-to resource for fostering harmony and efficiency each morning.
Alarm Clock List
Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock • Features: Simulates a sunrise with gradually increasing light, plays natural sounds or FM radio, and has a sunset fading nightlight for bedtime. • Popular Model: Philips SmartSleep HF3520/60
Hatch Restore • Features: Combines a sunrise alarm, sound machine, and mood lighting in one. It allows you to customize your wake-up routine with different sounds, lights, and even guided meditations. • Popular Model: Hatch Restore
Lumie Bodyclock • Features: Offers a sunrise and sunset simulation, plays natural sounds, and has a dimmable bedside light. • Popular Model: Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300
iHome Bluetooth Alarm Clock • Features: Plays music via Bluetooth from your device, includes a color-changing LED light, dual alarms, and a USB charging port. • Popular Model: iHome iBT29BC Bluetooth Color Changing Dual Alarm Clock
LittleHippo Mella Ready to Rise Children’s Trainer • Features: Designed for kids, it has a color-changing nightlight, sleep sound machine, and wake-up music. It teaches children when it’s time to get up using lights and facial expressions. • Popular Model: LittleHippo Mella
Emerson SmartSet Alarm Clock • Features: Digital alarm clock with Bluetooth speaker, USB charging, FM radio, and customizable LED lights. • Popular Model: Emerson SmartSet ER100301
JBL Horizon Bluetooth Alarm Clock • Features: Features an LED ambient light, Bluetooth streaming, FM radio, dual alarms, and USB charging ports. • Popular Model: JBL Horizon
Mirari OK to Wake! Alarm Clock & Night-Light • Features: This clock is popular with young children and changes color to signal when it’s time to wake up. It also plays fun sounds and has a nightlight feature. • Popular Model: Mirari OK to Wake!
Lenovo Smart Clock Essential • Features: A smart alarm clock with Google Assistant, it plays music, controls smart home devices, and includes an LED light. • Popular Model: Lenovo Smart Clock Essential
Homedics SoundSpa Recharged Alarm Clock • Features: Combines a sound machine with an alarm clock, FM radio, and mood lighting. • Popular Model: Homedics SoundSpa Recharged These alarm clocks offer a variety of features to make waking up easier, whether it’s through gradual light, music, or customizable wake-up routines.
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett

28. INFJ Human, Enneagram Type 3: Author Elizabeth Watkins, Highly Sensitive and High Achieving Kids

INFJ’s are one of the rarest types representing less than 1% of the population. Today my interview is with Elizabeth Reed Watkins who just published a memoir of her life growing up in Maine entitled the Maine Thing. We will discuss how she parents her four very different kids and she gives advice for parents with an INFJ child. She is also an Enneagram Type 3, so this episode will resonate with all the over achievers out there as well. Going back through her journey we talk about vivid dreams, imagination, friendships, sports, learning, deep emotional struggles and balancing her high ideals and need to achieve with the need to stay grounded. Stay tuned to the end because we have a mini coaching session to help all the over achievers out there, and I am one of them, learn to be easier on themselves. In true INFJ style, Elizabeth is truly vulnerable and authentic in this interview. Here are five main takeaways:
 
Encourage Imagination and don’t accuse them of lying
Let them daydream and have time to recharge
Realize they are an introvert and highly sensitive person and help them with coping strategies
Choose their activities carefully; Individual sports may be better for them than team sports
Pay attention to their activity level because overachieving can be a red flag
 
I just worked with parents who were looking at their ISTP Enneagram Type 8 lion daughter with a distorted lens. They were seeing her leadership capabilities and determination as demanding, her ability to problem solve as manipulation and they were expecting her to be a rule follower like her brother rather than an independent thinker. Connection and Control are the two most important needs for any child. They just purchased my Thrive program so they can reframe the way they see and work with their kids and have more peace in their home. You can take the first step by going to WendyGossett.com and taking my free child temperament test for one of your kids. I evaluate the results myself which is what sets it apart from other tests. If you want to strengthen your family connections, I know I can help!
 
Elizabeth’s book: https://www.elizabethreedwatkins.com/
Website: Wendy Gossett.com Get FREE resources on my website: https://wendygossett.com/category/resources/ or email me at WendyGossett.com
Get a FREE Child Temperament Test when you join my Not So Normal Parenting Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/notsonormalparenting
Book: Your Child's Inner Drive:Parenting by Personality from Toddlers to Teens on Amazon or  https://wendygossett.com/product/your-childs-inner-drive-parenting-by-personality-for-toddlers-to-teens/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaaOCjoDyOk4_gS1KCncLvQ
Instagram is Wendy.Gossett