Ep. 222 If Only...

This week let's dive into one of my favorite topics.   I always aimed to create an environment where my daughter could trust herself. But that became challenging when I wanted her to trust my experience, too. Like many of you, I have a lot of life experience, but making it the only truth made it hard for her to have her own experiences.   Growing up with a bit of a disturbing childhood made it hard for me to trust my instincts in parenting. I wanted to do things differently and give my daughter what I didn't get. Yet, following all the advice didn't always feel right for us.   I've learned that trusting myself isn't about rejecting expert advice but questioning does it work for me and my daughter. I know my daughter better than anyone, and so do you with your children.   This week, I encourage you to play with trusting yourself. See what happens when you listen to your instincts and create an environment for your kids to trust themselves.

As summer approaches, I can't help but feel nostalgic for the free, open summers of my childhood in Mississippi. 🌞 Back then, we'd hang out, ride our bikes, and our parents trusted us to be okay. Nowadays, times are different - with cell phones and constant tracking, there's a lot more structure and perhaps less freedom for kids. This summer, I'm challenging myself (and you!) to relax the structure a bit. Let's find time for unstructured play, for creativity to blossom from boredom, just like it did in those long summer days of our own childhoods. 🍃 Remember, summer is about freedom and relaxation. Let's embrace that energy and give our kids (and ourselves!) a taste of that old-school summer freedom. 💖 #SummerNostalgia #ParentingTips

In this week's episode of Parenting Paused, I found myself reflecting on the different approaches to parenting I've seen and experienced. I noticed a backlash against gentle and conscious parenting, as if kindness to children prevents them from behaving appropriately. I believe these perceptions stem from the ways we were parented ourselves. I chose a different path, one that felt kinder and more respectful of my daughter's individuality. I believe it's our job to guide our children in understanding the cultural expectations around them, not through shame or punishment, but through empathy and understanding. Let's make kindness our way this week and remember, we love our kiddos and are doing the best we can. #ParentingPaused #ConsciousParenting

This week on Parenting Paused I dive deep into the topic of overprotection. It's a parenting trait that's close to my heart and one I see many struggling with. Of course, you want your children to be safe, but are you shielding them too much? Are you preventing them from experiencing their feelings and thoughts, both good and bad, to avoid discomfort? I share my journey of learning to sit with my discomfort and supporting my child to navigate their own experiences. Remember, it's not about rescuing them from every situation, but supporting them through it, as they learn that feelings come and go, and they are okay. See you next week on Parenting Paused! #ParentingPaused #OverprotectiveParents #EmbraceDiscomfort

Reflecting on our role as parents, we often express our needs to our children without realizing the pressure we put on them. This week, try flipping the script: instead of projecting your needs onto them. Ask your kids what they need. Understanding their needs can shift your relationships with them, reduce stress, and promote their own love and care for themselves. #Parenting #UnderstandingNeeds #HealthyRelationships

On this episode of our Parenting Pause podcast, I share my experiences and wisdom about losing my mojo! I dig deep into the challenges of parenting, the unrealistic expectations we often have, and the importance of treating ourselves with kindness. Remember, you are not expected to be a supernatural parent, but a human one who sometimes loses your mojo. Listen in for insights on maintaining your self-love and care as a parent. #ParentingPausePodcast #SelfCare #ParentingRealities

Join me on my latest episode of Parenting Paused where I dive deep into understanding your children's behavior.  I encourage you to question common advice and seek to understand the root causes of behaviors such as hitting. The goal? To parent from your internal wisdom, not just expert advice. Don't miss out on this insightful episode! #ParentingPaused #UnderstandingBehavior #ParentingWisdom

Discover the ever-changing nature of your children in this week's ParentingPause podcast. I delve into the challenges of getting 'stuck' in one perspective and how to broaden your vision to embrace all sides of your children's behavior. Just as spring brings constant change, so do your children. Tune in to explore how to navigate these changes and avoid black and white thinking. 

Discover the profound preciousness in every moment of your parenting journey. Even when reality differs from our expectations or when challenges arise, remember that each experience has a unique, inherent value. It's not always about getting it 'right' or making things 'better'. Sometimes, it's about sitting in the present, acknowledging the full spectrum of human experience, and opening our hearts to find the beauty in the complex dance of parenting.

This week on Parenting Paused I'm delving deeper into the function of my judgments and how they serve me. What I discovered is that judgments often occur in the blink of an eye. After observing myself, I noticed that my judgments are like questioners, leading me back to myself. They can cover over the deeper wisdom I carry, especially as a parent. Instead of creating a whole story around a judgment, I suggest taking it inside, offering it kindness, and asking it a question. Then see if them as a reminder to turn back in and open your curiosity to what's happening in the present moment.