We’re so excited to introduce you to this month’s Motherhood Spotlight feature — the inspiring and empowering Dr. Lisa Petit of Your Parenting Playbook, based right here in Catonsville, MD!
Dr. Petit is a board-certified Pediatrician, mom of three, podcast host, and the heart behind a movement that’s changing the game for local parents. Her mission? To help moms ditch the overwhelm and second-guessing — and step into confidence with real tools, honest encouragement, and support that meets them where they are.
If you’re a local mom in Catonsville, Ellicott City, or anywhere in Howard County looking for parenting support that actually works, Dr. Lisa is your person.
Meet Dr. Lisa Petit
Dr. Petit has served Catonsville families through her private pediatric practice for over 15 years. But early on, she realized that routine checkups weren’t enough — parents needed more support, more guidance, and less judgment.
So she created Your Parenting Playbook, a trusted space for parents to learn, connect, and grow. Through live webinars, workshops, her podcast (The Huddle with Dr. Lisa Petit), and her published workbooks, she helps parents feel empowered — not overwhelmed.
Tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to start Your Parenting Playbook.
Lisa: I am a board-certified Pediatrician, a wife, and a mom of 3. I have a private practice in Catonsville, MD for over 15 years, and I knew immediately that I wanted to conduct parenting classes in order to empower and encourage parents.
I had my first child in residency, so I know first-hand the pressure parents (especially moms) experience on a daily basis. From day one, parents are bombarded with opinions, judged for their choices, and often left second-guessing themselves. And online searches can be unrealistic, discouraging… and sometimes pretty questionable. I started The Parenting Playbook because I wanted to give parents practical strategies, real facts, and encouragement so they could feel confident, supported, and equipped with tools they can actually use at home.
My live webinars, workshops, podcast (“The Huddle with Dr. Lisa Petit”), and books (Screen S.M.A.R.T. Workbook and mini Cell Phone guide) are designed to do just that.
What’s your favorite part of working with moms in this season of life?
Lisa: My favorite part is seeing the weight and burden lifted off their shoulders. I know how hard it is to feel like you’re constantly being criticized or measured against perfection. I also know how much pressure we put on ourselves to “get it right”. But when I can share truth, encouragement, and practical tools (and when moms realize they don’t have to be perfect) THAT’S the moment I see their whole posture change. For me, that moment is priceless! That’s why I do what I do!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give a new or expecting mom?
Lisa: Take care of yourself and do not be afraid to ask for help. On airplanes, they tell parents to put your oxygen mask on FIRST, before helping your child. That’s because if you put the child’s mask on and then you pass out, your child can’t help you.
But if you put your mask on and your child passes out, you are there for them…all because you took care of yourself. Motherhood is the hardest job you will ever do, but everyone needs (and deserves) a break. You are not a bad mom if you get your nails done, go to a movie, or just get coffee with a friend. That recharge will actually energize your “Mommy Mojo”…the recharge IS your oxygen mask!
Are there any myths or misconceptions in your field you’d love to clear up?
Lisa: Oh my goodness! One of the biggest misconceptions is that “good parenting” means kids should always be happy or never upset. The truth is, setting boundaries and saying “no” is an essential part of raising healthy, emotionally balanced kids. Discipline doesn’t always mean punishment or harshness—it means teaching, age-appropriate boundaries, and consistent follow-through. It’s okay if kids feel frustrated or disappointed sometimes. That’s how they learn resilience and respect, which are 2 of the most important qualities for being successful in life.
What makes your business unique in supporting moms?
Lisa: The Parenting Playbook is unique because I combine my training as a Pediatrician with my background in Psychology to fulfill my passion for empowering parents. That means I’m not just giving out parenting tips—I’m teaching evidence-based, practical strategies that actually work in real families. The Parenting Playbook is about meeting parents where they are, equipping them with REAL tools, and encouraging them without judgment. It’s medical knowledge, psychology, and real-life mom wisdom woven together in one place.
What’s Your Mom Tip for Our Readers?
Lisa: Keep a gratitude journal, and every day (starting today), write down 1-3 things you are thankful for, or a win that you had- big or small.
Maybe you kept calm during your child’s tantrum, or you got everyone out the door on time this morning, or you finally drank your coffee while it was still hot. Those small wins add up, and keeping the journal will remind you that you’re doing better than you think!
Connect with Dr. Lisa Petit
Visit Website
Info@yourparentingplaybook.com
Instagram: @realparentingplaybook
Facebook: @realparentingplaybook
Listen to her podcast: The Huddle with Dr. Lisa Petit
Resources: Screen S.M.A.R.T. Workbook & Mini Cell Phone Guide
Whether you’re a brand-new mom or knee-deep in the teenage years, Your Parenting Playbook is a breath of fresh air for Catonsville parents.
We’re honored to spotlight Dr. Petit and all she’s doing to lift up moms in our community!
