Siste episoder av Dam Parenting podcast

1. Connecting Health & Community: The Healthy Here Event in Amstelveen12.10.2025 (00:13:15)

   Join us as we spotlight Healthy Here’s upcoming event on November 1st in Amstelveen — a free community gathering designed to help internationals connect directly with the Dutch health system. No huisarts (GP) referral needed for this one!This event is all about breaking barriers — meeting trusted Dutch health professionals face to face, asking questions in plain English, and finding the support you need to navigate healthcare in the Netherlands with confidence. Whether you’re new here or have been around for years, Healthy Here is creating a space for connection, clarity, and community wellbeing.Tune in to learn more about what to expect, who’s involved, and how this event is shining a light on another incredible member of our growing international community.Free to attend. Open to everyone. Because better health starts with being seen, heard, and understood.Health Fair Amstelveen 2025

2. Say What You Mean: Honest conversations that save relationships with Angela from the Expat Parenting Collective08.10.2025 (00:23:03)

   In this episode, host Eva and Angela from the Expat Parenting Collective dive into what it really takes to build strong relationships as international couples and expat families.They talk openly about the challenges of love, communication, and parenting abroad, and why no relationship is ever easy — especially when you’re juggling cultural differences, distance from family, and life in a new country.This episode is a reality check for expat partners and global parents, reminding us that relationships are partnerships — not just with our spouses, but with our children too. With honesty and warmth, Eva and Angela share how to stay connected, communicate better, and create a sense of home wherever you are. Listen to learn:How to strengthen relationships while living abroadCommunication tips for expat couples and international familiesThis topic came about from Angela's post earlier in August you can find hereYou can access The Expat Parenting Collective free ebook on how to support yourself as part of an expat/immigrant couple living far from your core suport network here

3. Science fun in Amsterdam West with The Science Camp plus GIVEAWAY!01.10.2025 (00:11:14)

   This episode marks our very first collaboration — and it’s all about family science fun in Amsterdam! Dam Parenting is teaming up with The Science Camp, who have just launched their brand-new science learning space in Amsterdam West, (⁠Kinkerstraat 70⁠). Together, we dive into how hands-on science activities inspire kids, spark creativity, and bring families together.To celebrate the opening of The Science Camp’s new location, we’re giving away special family passes and prizes — perfect for parents looking for exciting things to do with kids in Amsterdam.PRIZES UP FOR GRABSThe Toddler Lab - Wednesdays 0930 - 1030The Science Weekend (October 4th) 2 sessions 10:00 - 11:15 (ages 4-6) Crazy Chemistry:Learn about chemical reactions with colorful and explosive experiments.13:00 - 14:15 (ages 7-10)Astronomy Adventures14:15 - 15:30 (ages 7-10) Journey through space and learn about stars, planets, and the universe.1 day ticket to the Science Camp in the Herfst VakantieLocation: Henrick de Keijserplein 45From 9:00 - 15:00Age: 5 - 10 yearsPrice: €70 per day ( available Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday) Follow them on Instagram

4. Happy International Podcast Day30.09.2025 (00:04:22)

   Happy International Podcast Day! In this special episode, Eva takes a moment to reflect on the podcast’s journey—150+ episodes, 20k+ downloads—and the international family community it has helped build in the Netherlands. From sharing stories and expert insights to destigmatising topics like mental health, matrescence, and birth choices, this podcast is a growing village. Listeners are invited to celebrate, connect, and help shape what comes next.

5. Why BBABBY Fair Is the Support Event Every Parent Needs27.09.2025 (00:12:06)

   It takes a village to raise a child — but what about the village that supports you before, during, and after birth? In this episode, host Eva sits down with Maria from @MamaMariacoach , the organiser of the BBABBY Fair — a first-of-its-kind support fair for parents and parents-to-be.Unlike traditional baby fairs filled with products and prams, the BBABBY Fair brings together over 60 professionals, each offering the kind of wisdom, guidance, and support they once wished they had. From pregnancy to postpartum, birth partners to nutrition, this is where you’ll meet your community face-to-face.You’ll also hear familiar voices from the podcast, including Dr. Naomi Gibson, Toni from The Little Birth Company sharing her NICU story, Claudia from Ludica Support Network, and Amélie on nutrition before and during pregnancy — all part of this incredible village.Whether you’re planning to start a family, are already pregnant, or navigating life with little ones, the BBABBY Fair is your chance to learn, connect, and find the support you deserve.Join us as we explore the story behind BBABBY, why this event matters so deeply, and how it’s reshaping the way we think about community in parenting.Get your ticket here

6. Robbeburg - 50 years and going strong25.09.2025 (00:12:24)

   This week, host Eva takes us inside Robbeburg—a family-founded community center in Amsterdam Zuid that has welcomed parents and little ones for 50 years. Volunteer Kelli joins to share how this special space continues to thrive, why it matters for families in a growing city, and how you can support Robbeburg’s future.Grab your raffle ticket here!See what you can win from the raffle! Amsterdam Parent Project: One Burnout Support Program sponsorship (worth €40)Beauty by Iresh: One Full Brow Treatment (worth € 38,95) and one Lashlift (worth €75)Bij Allerlei: Two €20 gift cardsBruna: One €25 gift cardDe Beestenboel: One cat gift boxDr Naomi Gibson: One set of Stick Together Conversation CardsEat Love Thrive Wellness: One free 45-min 1:1 certified nutritional coaching session (worth €349)Expat Parenting Collective: One 1-hour coaching or breath work sessionFoundree: One 60-min Clarity Coaching session (worth €150)Grammes: One voucher (worth €20)Hotel Okura: Breakfast for 2 at Serre RestaurantHouse of Craftivities: One private pot painting workshop for a group of 4 (worth €180)Joanne Lozman Sleep Consulting: One 30-min sleep advice/coaching callKaas van Tim: Two €20 gift cardsLemon Conceptstore: One €25 gift cardMamapreneur Collective: One free Connect tier membership for one quarter (worth €117)MamaSocial: One MamaSocial brunch ticketMaster Dutch: One 45-min Dutch lesson with language influencer Kees WolfsMinku: Ethnically sourced bracelets (made from coconut and silver beads) and a shirtMokum Mobile Vet: Free veterinary house call consultation for a catNail Fizz: One €70 gift cardRobbeburg: One Robbeburg party (worth €200)Sāaru: One gift certificate (worth €200) and a discount codeSlagerij ten Wolde: Two €20 gift cardsThe Science Camp: Two vouchers for all day science campst - ART: Two free trial sessions (worth €45 each)Tout: 12 macaronsWira Wellness: Two massages (worth €85)Vermaz Delicatessen and Wine: One bottle of wineZipster: One €50 gift cardRobbeburg is the only community centre created by and for our international community located in Amsterdam Zuid.

7. Ellen’s Birth Story – Courage, Community, and Connection24.09.2025 (00:53:16)

   In this episode of Dam Parenting, host Eva sits down with Ellen and her doula, Ilena Standring, to share a powerful and personal birth story about giving birth in the Netherlands. From pregnancy preparations to the first signs of labour, through to the moment of birth and postpartum reflections, Ellen’s journey highlights both the challenges and the joys of welcoming a baby in a new country.For many international parents, the Dutch approach to birth—whether in a hospital, a birthing centre, or even a home birth—can feel unfamiliar. Ellen’s story offers a real, honest look at navigating the Dutch maternity system, supported by her doula, Ilena. Together, they reflect on the courage it takes to share a birth story and the healing power of storytelling in building community. In this episode:Ellen’s experience preparing for birth in the Netherlands as an international parentWhat labour and delivery looked like with doula supportInsights into the Dutch maternity care system and expectations around home birthHow sharing birth stories can reduce isolation, build confidence, and create connectionDam Parenting is the English-speaking parenting podcast in the Netherlands, exploring real parenting stories and experiences that bring our community closer together. Whether you’re pregnant, planning your birth, or curious about what giving birth in the Netherlands is really like, this episode will leave you feeling informed, connected, and supported.Thank you to Ellen for reaching out and sharing your story with our community.

8. Whose Language, Whose Legacy? Planning multilingual parenting with intention with Mimi 17.09.2025 (00:15:50)

   How do family dynamics shape your child’s multilingual journey? In this episode of Dam Parenting, Eva sits down with Mimi from Growing Multilingual to explore what it really takes to raise kids with more than one language — with clarity, consistency, and care.We dive into:Why your personal “why” matters in multilingual parentingHow to align with your partner (or ex-partner) on language goalsStrategies for solo parents and co-parents navigating life after divorceCreating emotional safety and identity for multilingual childrenBuilding a sustainable, intentional family language planWhether you’re raising bilingual, trilingual, or multilingual kids, this conversation will help you reflect, reset, and root your parenting choices in purpose.Perfect for parents wondering:* Which languages should we prioritise as a family?* What if my partner doesn’t fully buy in?* How can I support my child’s identity as a single parent?Tune in for real talk, practical tips, and encouragement to find peace (not pressure) in your multilingual parenting journey.

9. Parenting & Vulnerability: Preparing Your Child for Adenoid, Tonsil & Grommet Surgery10.09.2025 (00:10:44)

   In this heartfelt episode of Dam Parenting, host Eva shares her personal journey of her daughter's adenoid removal, tonsillectomy, and grommet surgery. From the raw vulnerability of handing your child over to doctors, to practical tips on preparation and recovery, this episode blends emotional honesty with useful advice for parents facing similar procedures.We’ll cover:How to prepare your child emotionally and practically for surgeryWhat to expect before, during, and after adenoid, tonsil, and grommet proceduresTips for making hospital day smoother (yes, pajamas matter!)Recovery essentials: ice pops, jelly, and comfort strategiesParenting vulnerability and what Brené Brown teaches us about courageIf you’re a parent navigating pediatric ENT/KNO surgery or just looking for reassurance in moments of parenting vulnerability, this episode is for you.Anna in het ziekenhuis — Liesbet SlegersKarel in het ziekenhuis — Liesbet SlegersKevin Goes to the Hospital — Liesbet Slegers (English)Anna in het ziekenhuis — Kathleen AmantNijntje in het ziekenhuis (Miffy at the Hospital) — Dick BrunaBobbi naar het ziekenhuis — Monica MaasDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — “Daniel Goes to the Hospital” (YouTube, ~26 minutes)Bluey — Bumpy and the Wise Old Wolfhound (Season 1, Episode 32)Pack comfy pajamas for your child (many hospitals expect it).Bring an extra sweater or scarf for yourself—waiting rooms can be cold.Stock up on recovery snacks: ice pops, jelly, clear juices. Let your child choose them in advance for a sense of control.Create a comfort kit: favourite toy, books, or shows lined up for recovery week.Use mantras or rituals to ground yourself during the wait. (“It’s routine. She’s safe. She’s brave.” helped me.)Don’t forget self-care: eat, hydrate, breathe. You can’t pour from an empty cup.Parenting through surgery is an exercise in vulnerability and courage. As Brené Brown reminds us, vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s the birthplace of connection and love. If you found this episode helpful, please follow Dam Parenting on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. Leave a review to help other parents find this resource.Subscribe so you don’t miss future parenting stories, tips, and expert conversations.

10. New Land, New Life: Alexa's story of settling in03.09.2025 (00:21:45)

    In this episode, we welcome a fresh voice to the podcast - Alexa Starks—one of the newest arrivals to the Netherlands. Having moved here in April, she’s not only navigating life in a new country but also embracing motherhood in a different country, with a very different system and language at the same time. We sit down to hear her first impressions, the challenges of settling in, and the small victories that make each day brighter.From adjusting to Dutch culture and figuring out the practicalities of immigrant life, to finding community as an expat parent, this conversation offers a candid look at what it’s really like to start over in the Netherlands with a young children. Whether you’re a parent thinking about relocating, an expat already living abroad, or simply curious about life in the Netherlands, this episode is full of relatable insights and encouragement.Tune in to hear about:The first four months of moving to the Netherlands as a new momPractical challenges and unexpected joys of expat lifeBuilding community and support networks as an international parentLessons learned and advice for families considering a move abroadIf you’re exploring life as an expat parent in the Netherlands—or planning your own move—you won’t want to miss this inspiring story of resilience and new beginnings.

11. Understanding Sensory Needs in Children: Expert Insights from Child Psychologist Faye27.08.2025 (00:18:44)

    In this episode of the DAM Parenting Podcast, host Eva sits down with our resident child psychologist Faye from Kerr Psychology to explore the often-overlooked sensory systems that shape a child’s growth, learning, and emotional regulation.They break down proprioception, vestibular input, and the full range of sensory needs—helping parents understand why these systems matter and how they play a role in everyday routines, especially during times of transition (like starting school, returning after holidays, or getting back into structure).Faye explains how these sensory experiences support a child’s ability to self-regulate emotions, focus, and feel calm in their bodies—and why parents don’t always need to overthink it, as many everyday activities naturally provide these supports.What proprioceptive and vestibular inputs are, and why they’re key to your child’s development.How sensory needs connect to emotional regulation and routine adjustments.Real-life, easy examples of sensory activities you can build into daily life:Proprioceptive experiences – lifting and carrying (books, bags, buckets), pushing/pulling (wheelbarrow, stroller, vacuum, rakes), climbing monkey bars, or resistance play.Pressure & movement – big bear hugs, pouring activities, rough-and-tumble play, trampolining, soft play, running, jumping, climbing, and bouncing.Oral sensory activities – chewing, blowing bubbles, and more.Why it’s all about trial and error—finding what works for your child’s unique sensory profile.Middletown Centre for Autism – Sensory Processing InformationIf this episode helps you better understand your child’s sensory needs, subscribe and follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes in this mini-series. We’d love to hear from you—head over to Instagram, send us your questions, and join the conversation!

12. Building connection through play with Mimi from Growing up Multilingual20.08.2025 (00:19:34)

    In this episode, host Eva welcomes back guest Mimi to reflect on a powerful everyday moment: sitting down to colour with her daughter. What started as a simple playtime activity unexpectedly opened the door for her daughter to begin speaking more Bulgarian than ever before—naturally, spontaneously, and without prompts or corrections.Through this story, Eva and Mimi explore the deeper truth that language development isn’t just about more exposure—it’s about more connection. Children speak the languages that feel safe, meaningful, and emotionally engaging. And play, as Mimi describes, creates that ideal environment.Together, they discuss:Why play is the “native language of childhood” and a natural gateway to speechHow following your child’s lead invites authentic language useWhy connection before correction fosters confidence and trustHow play creates rich opportunities for repetition and practice without pressureWhy this matters especially for multilingual children and familiesYou’ll also hear practical tips, like a play-connection checklist for parents who want to nurture language growth at home—without turning play into a lesson.This episode is a reminder that small, everyday interactions can unlock big breakthroughs. When we show up in our children’s world with curiosity and presence, language follows.

13. Time Vault - School Choices with Isabel Cruz from Consulting Kaleidoscope13.08.2025 (00:27:30)

    As parents, we face countless decisions along our children’s journey—but choosing the right school can feel especially daunting. If your toddler is approaching the school age, especially here in the Netherlands, you’re entering a world of unique opportunities and options. Unlike many countries, the Dutch education system offers a wide variety of school types and educational philosophies—from Montessori and Waldorf to public and private schools.Join Isabel Cruz of Kaleidoscope Consulting as she breaks down everything parents need to know about selecting the perfect school. Learn when to start planning, how to explore different educational approaches, and tips for visiting schools to get a real feel for the environment.Whether you’re new to the Netherlands or just want clarity in this complex process, this podcast will guide you through making informed decisions that shape your child’s educational future.Tune in to gain confidence, insight, and practical advice for your family’s school journey!Next Workshops at Monti's WorldSeptember 20th and October 11th Register hereFind out more:⁠Kaleidoscope Consulting⁠⁠Instagram ⁠Numbers showing which secondary school the children progress to⁠AlleCijfers

14. Time Vault with Project Fearless06.08.2025 (00:21:48)

    August 12th is The United Nations' International Youth Day which recognises efforts of the world's youth in enhancing global society. And I thought who better than to do a re-listen to then Project Fearless.What an incredible Stichting for youth right here in the Netherlands.

15. Life be lifing..30.07.2025 (00:04:35)

    Today is a little different.No guests, no interviews and no expert insights.Just a note from me to you.

16. Ask a Child Psychologist: Faye answers parenting & child behaviour questions23.07.2025 (00:28:45)

    Let’s get some free therapy — with a child psychology twist!In this episode, resident child psychologist Faye from Kerr Psychology answers two real questions from two real moms in our community. Question 1: How do we support young children who express big emotions physically — like hitting, pushing, or lashing out? Question 2: What can we do about the daily morning chaos — those time management battles that leave everyone stressed?Whether you're dealing with toddler tantrums, emotional outbursts, or the school-run stress, this episode is for you.Real parenting struggles. Expert guidance. Honest conversation.You're not alone — and your question might just help another parent too.Got a question for Faye? Send it in and be part of the conversation.

17. Talking about Talking: It’s not just what you say - It’s how you say it with Mimi16.07.2025 (00:14:30)

    If your child understands the home language but rarely speaks it, you're not alone—and you're definitely not failing. In this episode, we move beyond the common advice of “just add more exposure” and explore what really drives language use in bilingual kids: motivation and connection.We dive into the emotional and psychological layers that shape your child’s willingness to speak, backed by research from Döpke and others. From the importance of emotionally attuned interactions to practical ways to create low-pressure, meaningful moments for language use, this episode is a must-listen for parents raising bilingual children. Because sometimes, it’s not about more input—it’s about deeper connection.What the Research Tells Us (feat. Döpke and more)Research by Döpke (1986) found that children are more likely to actively use their home language when parents follow a more child-centered form of interaction. This aligns with what we know from Piaget’s model: in the early years (pre-operational stage), children are naturally egocentric - they see the world from their own perspective and have a hard time understanding things from someone else’s point of view. So it’s no surprise that they respond best when communication revolves around their interests, ideas and experiences, rather than adult priorities.And newer studies back it up:It happens very often that a child might prefer one home language over the other, but as a matter of fact - a child’s environment shapes language use. If one language is used more often, in more emotionally engaging contexts, that’s the one they’ll likely prefer.Just hearing a language isn’t enough. Kids need a reason to speak it. Otherwise, they stay passive - understanding but not using.

18. Summers Boredom Busters: Where to go with the kids this summer with Samira13.07.2025 (00:11:45)

    Where to go, what to do with Samira from AmsterdamKids.comBeachesZandvoort aan ZeeBloemendaal aan ZeeCastricum aan Zee Texel IslandZeelandScheveningenAmusement ParksEfteling Oud ValkeveenDuinrell and Tiki PoolToverlandSprookjeswonderlandEasy Outdoor Escapes from AmsterdamHet Twiske*Always check water safety on Waterkwaliteit.net before swimming.Outdoor Pools - Flevoparkbad and MirandabadPierenbadjesSpecial Summer Events SAIL AmsterdamMuseum Summer Programs - grab your MuseumkaartDoolhof Corn MazeTravel HacksNS SpoordeelwinkelNS Kids free travel GVB Kids VrijOBA - LibraryBonus: Boeren Camping

19. Love, Culture & In-Laws: Managing Expectations in a Cross-Cultural Family09.07.2025 (00:26:01)

    Feeling Alone as a New Parent Abroad? You're Not the Only OneIn this heartfelt episode of Dam Parenting, we dive deep into one of the most personal and challenging experiences many parents face: raising a child far from home, without the family support they expected.Host Eva is joined by Angela from the Expat Parenting Collective, an expert in helping globally mobile families navigate the emotional, cultural, and practical challenges of parenting abroad. Together, they unpack a powerful listener question from an expat mother in the Netherlands — a new mom navigating postpartum life without the strong family support system she was used to back in Asia.Topics Covered:Why parenting abroad can feel so isolating — even when you're not "alone"Cultural clashes around postpartum care and family involvementSetting boundaries with in-laws and expressing your needs clearly (without guilt)Practical ways to build a sense of community as an expat parentTools to reduce overwhelm and reconnect with your inner strengthHow to prepare for cultural differences before the baby arrivesIf you’re parenting in a new country and feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or just plain exhausted — this episode is for you. We’re here with real talk, real support, and real solutions.Whether you’re in Amsterdam, Tokyo, Nairobi, or anywhere in between — hit play, take a deep breath, and know: you’re not alone.Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share Dam Parenting to support honest conversations that matter.

20. The Motherbrain Myth by Dr. Elke De Witte02.07.2025 (00:44:52)

    What really happens to the brain when we become parents? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Elke De Witte, author of the newly released Dutch book De Moederbreinmythe ("The Mother Brain Myth")—a must-hear conversation we couldn't wait for in English.Dr. De Witte shares her groundbreaking neuroscience research on how the parental brain changes—not just for biological mothers, but for all caregivers. This episode is packed with insights that challenge outdated assumptions and reveal the true power and plasticity of the brain during parenthood.Whether you're a parent-to-be, a new parent, a non-birthing caregiver, or an HR professional looking to reshape your workplace for better support and inclusion—this episode is for you.Learn why science is now calling for a societal shift in how we treat caregiving, maternity return-to-work policies, and community support in our modern-day “village.”Understand the real neurological transformation that happens with caregiving.Discover why this matters not just for parents—but for everyone.Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation.Share this episode with expecting parents, new parents, caregivers, and forward-thinking HR leaders who want to build a more supportive world of work.Find out more from www.elkedewitte.com

21. Why Kids Need a Smartphone-Free Childhood | Smartphonevrij Opgroeien Movement30.06.2025 (00:27:26)

    Smartphones are addictive — science confirms it. As adults, we feel the pull. But what happens when kids as young as 9 are handed devices and expected to navigate school, friendships, puberty, and social media all at once?In this powerful episode, we explore the growing Opgroeien Smartphonevrij (Growing Up Smartphone-Free) movement — a grassroots initiative started by Dutch parents who want to change the norm. Backed by leading research from psychologists Jean Twenge and Angela Duckworth, this movement advocates for smartphone-free primary schools, better digital boundaries, and healthier childhood development.We discuss:What parents can do to delay smartphone useHow to talk with schools and other parents about screen-free environmentsIf you’ve ever felt alone in wanting to say “no” to early smartphones — you're not. There’s a growing community of parents who agree it’s time to reclaim childhood.Links to support you:Want to join the Whatsapp group in your area? CLICK HEREWant to join the Whatsapp group for English speakers: CLICK HERE - (in select jouw regio - scroll to bottom for ENGLISH)If you want to check out your own school (or chosen school) CLICK HERE on your regionClick on the image of a school - Bekijk hoeveel ouders....From there it will show you the number of students and schools, with the list of cities underneath.Click into the city and you will get a breakdown of each school registered and keep clicking.. It gets more and more interesting! You will see how many kids in your school, and even by which groep they are in.If you want the read the materials related to the UK website CLICK HEREIf you want to read about Amsterdam's action plan: You can download the PDF (Dutch only) hereLoved this episode? Help us spread the message!If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a fellow parent, teacher, or friend. The more we talk about growing up smartphone-free, the stronger the movement becomes.Follow the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episodeRate the show — it helps more parents discover these important topicsShare this episode in your group chats, school WhatsApp groups, or on social mediaTogether, we can create healthier environments for our kids to grow up in.

22. Before They Feel It: Why managing your own stress helps your child thrive with Dr Faye25.06.2025 (00:27:41)

    This week, our trusted child psychologist, Dr. Faye Pool is back, to talk about a parenting skill every parent needs: how to manage your own stress before you handle your child’s meltdown.In this episode, we cover:Why staying calm is the best parenting tool you haveHow stress affects you and your child’s developing brainSimple regulation techniques to use when your child is out of controlReal-life tips for handling public tantrums and parenting pressure abroadMentioned in this episode:Social learning theory, by Bandura.Dr Hillary - the Raised Resilient podcast.Kate Silverton - there's no such thing as naughty book.

23. Migrant Moms, Mental Health & MiMoment22.06.2025 (00:06:23)

    In this special episode of the Dam Parenting, we’re raising awareness about MiMoment — a unique research project by the WHO Collaborating Center and the Department of Clinical Psychology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.MiMoment focuses on the mental health and well-being of women who have moved to the Netherlands and are now experiencing pregnancy far from home. Did you know that migrant mothers face a higher risk of depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy? Research shows that 1 in 4 experiences symptoms of depression and 1 in 5 experiences anxiety.This project aims to listen to these women’s stories, understand their challenges, and help shape better, more respectful, and accessible mental health care for future mothers in our communities.Who can participate?Women who are currently in their 1st or 2nd trimester of pregnancyLiving in the NetherlandsBorn in a low- or middle-income country (for example: Morocco, Syria, Ghana, Suriname, Ukraine) What does it involve?4 short online questionnaires, in your own language (Dutch, English, Arabic, or Turkish)Optional: 2 small hair samples to study stress over timeFlexible and completely confidentialReceive up to €40 in vouchers for questionnaires and €20 for hair samplesHow to join?Signing up is easy and does not commit you yet:Sign up form WebsiteInstagramWhatsAppFacebook LinkedIn If you’re a listener, friend, or community worker, please share this episode with someone who could benefit — every story makes a difference, and every voice helps improve care for mothers everywhere.

24. Let It Be Lighter: Easing the Stress of Raising Multilingual Children18.06.2025 (00:20:46)

    Welcome back to Dam Parenting — in this episode we’re continuing the monthly multilingual parenting series with the insightful and compassionate Mimi from Growing Up Multilingual.In this honest and much-needed episode, Eva and Mimi talk about something many multilingual families quietly carry: the stress and self-imposed pressure of trying to “get it right.” From guilt and comparison to burnout and fear, the emotional load behind language decisions can feel heavy — but it doesn’t have to.They not here to give you a longer to-do list. Mimi is here to help you slow down, reflect, and make your multilingual journey feel more sustainable, intuitive, and connected — for your child, and for yourself.Why the emotional side of multilingual parenting often goes unspoken — but affects everythingCommon stresses like “Am I doing enough?”, guilt, comparison, and fear of doing it "wrong"The difference between mindfulness and intentionality — and how both can guide your language choicesPractical ways to release the pressure and reconnect with your whyHow to build flexible routines that evolve with your familyWhy perfection is a myth — and presence is what really mattersYou’ll walk away with gentle encouragement, actionable strategies, and permission to let go of the “shoulds” that aren’t serving you.Mindfulness is about tuning into the present moment and noticing what truly engages your child.Intentionality follows mindfulness — it’s the conscious choices you make based on what works for your family.Your language plan is a living document — flexibility is not failure. It’s growth.You don’t need to do more — just connect to what matters most.Take one minute today to pause and ask:“What’s one small way I can show up with more ease and intention this week?”Write it down, say it out loud, or text it to a friend. That’s where the shift begins.If this episode spoke to you, please share it with a fellow parent, rate and review the podcast, and hit subscribe — Mimi will be joining us every month for real, supportive conversations about raising multilingual kids.Further Reading:5 Simple but Powerful Strategies Utilising Mindfulness to Help You Manage Your Family Language Planning Process⁠Research:Mindfulness and foreign language learners’ self-perceived proficiency: the mediating roles of anxiety and burnoutLanguage Acquisition and Use in Multilingual Contexts. Theory and Practice

25. Vulnerability in Fatherhood : a Men’s Mental Health Week special11.06.2025 (00:42:49)

    In this special episode of Dam Parenting during Men’s Mental Health Week, we open up a vital conversation about fatherhood and mental health—a topic still too often left in the shadows.We’re joined by two fathers from our international community who share their personal journeys into parenthood. One speaks candidly about the emotional toll of having a newborn in the NICU, and the other reflects on the everyday challenges of raising a young family while living with ADHD. Different stories, same truth: fatherhood can be heavy, and vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s real strength.Did you know?The rise of paternal burnout and why nearly 1 in 6 fathers in the Netherlands report burnout symptomsHow up to 1 in 4 dads experience postpartum depression within the first six months after birthWith burnout, emotional overload, and the pressure to "stay strong," many fathers are struggling in silence. This episode is about breaking that silence, challenging stigma, and creating space for real conversations and support.STATS:15.9% of Dutch fathers report moderate parental burnout, with 0.4% experiencing high burnout PMC Study on Parental BurnoutUp to 25.6% of fathers may experience postpartum depression, especially within 3–6 months postpartum PubMed Meta-analysisRising awareness of paternal mental health issues, yet routine screening is still uncommon Springer Open Access StudyGrowing mental overload for fathers with neurodivergent conditions like ADHD