CBeebies Parenting - Download – Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Janet Ellis share their parenting secrets

Download Download – Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Janet Ellis share their parenting secrets

Parenting styles and advice shift across decades as guidance on sleep, discipline and children’s autonomy changes. Katie Thistleton and Guvna B ask what truly evolves from one generation to the next and how parents and grandparents can compare approaches without friction.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor, singer and mum of five, focuses on keeping core values consistent while tailoring responses to each child. She highlights the importance of communication, aiming for two way respect and staying flexible when one child needs a different approach from a sibling.

Janet Ellis MBE, former Blue Peter presenter, mum of three and grandmother of six, shares her simple grandparent rule of thumb. Wait to be asked, stay supportive without taking over and respect the parents’ non negotiables so everyone remains on the same team.

Clinical psychologist Dr Tara Porter explains why good enough, relationship first parenting, balanced with firm but kind boundaries, tends to serve children better than more extreme parenting approaches.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 022 4808.

Published on Saturday, 28th March 2026.

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