# Parenting the Spicy Child with Mary Van Geffen

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/homeschool-minnesota-6679214/parenting-the-spicy-child-with-mary-van-geffen
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/homeschool-minnesota-6679214/parenting-the-spicy-child-with-mary-van-geffen.md
Podcast: [Homeschool Minnesota](https://stenobird.com/podcast/homeschool-minnesota-6679214)
Published: 2026-03-03T17:48:07+00:00
Episode link: https://dayleannand.podbean.com/e/parenting-the-spicy-child-with-mary-van-geffen/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/zj95am3s7gbc9xda/riverside_parenting_the_spicy_child_mar_03_2026_001_homeschool_minnesota7aaov.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/homeschool-minnesota-6679214/episodes/parenting-the-spicy-child-with-mary-van-geffen
Duration seconds: 2794

## Resource

In this episode of Homeschool Minnesota, host Dayle Annand speaks with parenting coach Mary Van Geffen about her book 'Parenting a Spicy One.' They discuss the unique challenges and joys of raising strong-willed children, often referred to as 'spicy ones.' Mary shares insights on defining a spicy child, the positives of their temperament, and effective strategies for handling meltdowns. The conversation emphasizes the importance of connection over control, recognizing parental burnout, and the necessity of self-care for parents. Mary encourages parents to pursue their spicy children with love and understanding, fostering a supportive environment for their emotional growth. Links: To learn more about Mary Van Geffen and to buy her book: https://www.maryvangeffen.com/ To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parenting a Spicy One03:09 Defining a Spicy Child05:55 The Positives of Parenting a Spicy Child08:47 Understanding Meltdowns11:50 Handling Meltdowns Effectively15:00 Discipline and Teaching Strategies18:06 Calming Techniques During Meltdowns20:56 Coping Mechanisms for Spicy Children25:25 Teaching Emotional Regulation26:00 Connection Over Control27:43 The Importance of Calmness29:10 Building Connection Through Quality Time30:36 The Five to One Ratio in Relationships32:07 Understanding Spicy Children34:43 Supporting Parents of Spicy Children35:26 Creating a Supportive Environment40:25 Recognizing Parental Burnout46:42 Pursuing Connection Without Agenda

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## Transcript

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