Our Story

The Wide awake parenting Story

Welcome to the Wide Awake Parenting Community!  I'm Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian and  I am the founder and host of our podcast. As a child psychologist, I continue to be inspired by the parents I have the privilege of working with.   As they strive to care for a struggling child (as well as themselves, their other children, and their other responsibilities)  I am amazed at the way they make this journey their own.  Once they have reached out for the support they need, they are able to find opportunity within their personal crisis.  I see them find their voice,  reconnect with their child,  reprioritize their personal values, and transform their family.  What I have learned through my work is that we are resilient and adaptive creatures, we just need the right space and some sturdy tools.  I hope our community provides you with pieces of that; a place where you can take what you need and make it your own.

Why a poDCASt?

Once parents find out what I do, they have a lot of questions for me about child development and questions about their own kids.  I want to make this information accessible and to create a place where we can think about our questions together.  I also hear a lot of self-doubt when talking to parents and I want to change that.  I hope the Wide Awake Parenting Podcast can reassure parents that the hard work they are doing, the constant decision making they are faced with, is making the positive impact they hope it is.  Let's unpack our questions and concerns together, explore the research and I hope, leave you feeling inspired and supported. 

When parents are nourished, connected, and inspired, it benefits the health and wellness of the entire family.  When a parent gives themself this gift, they are able to lead their family more effectively through daily life and intense transitions.  Lean on our podcast to connect you with a community of parents and experts dedicated to your family's growth and transformation.

why mindfulness?

I use mindfulness techniques in my work and at home with my own family. It helps us to better understand our experiences and reactions to the struggles of parenting. It forces us out of auto-pilot and into a more present and awake way of perceiving our environment.  I have noticed that assisting parents with their own process of mindfulness is necessary for an effective and sustained positive outcome for their child.  Self-awareness empowers parents to deeply attune to their child's needs and intention setting allows us to more consistently reach our goals. 

Let's help each other stay curious and keep this conversation at the forefront of our days and weeks, at the top of our list of priorities and resolutions.  I welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback and look forward to connecting with you.