Ep. 230 Can you Trust Yourself?
Parenting Paused
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...
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Ep. 229 Summer is Almost Here!
Parenting Paused
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...
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Ep. 228 Shaming and Blaming
Parenting Paused
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...
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Ep. 227 Overprotecting Your Child
Parenting Paused
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...
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Ep. 226 I Need you To
Parenting Paused
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
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Ep. 225 What Happened to Your Mojo?
Parenting Paused
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
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Ep. 224 The Root of Behavior
Parenting Paused
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
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Ep. 223 My Kid Always......
Parenting Paused
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.
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Ep. 222 If Only...
Parenting Paused
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.
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Ep. 221 Seeing Through Judgement
Parenting Paused
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.
info_outlineDisappointment has been on my mind lately, and I imagine you can relate. There are some really great things that come along with parenting and yet it also has its share of disappointments.
I often found myself wrestling with the weight of expectations. It's not easy admitting that the source of disappointment isn't external, rather it comes from within – from the expectations I set on myself as a mother and therefore for my child to fulfill those expectations so I felt good about myself.
We all have dreams and aspirations for our children, hoping they'll flourish in certain areas, follow a certain path. But here's the kicker – kids are their own unique individuals, with their own strengths and passions. Sometimes, they don't align with the script we had in mind. And that can be tough to swallow.
It's a lesson in humility, a reminder that my child is not an extension of me, but a beautifully independent soul on their own journey. Of course, at times you'll feel disappointed, and it's also important to go to your SafeSeat when you recognize these feelings. Noticing that the disappointment is often rooted in the expectations you place on yourself and your kids gives you the opportunity to offer self-kindness.
So, I'm taking a step back, visiting my SafeSeat, recalibrating my expectations, and learning to appreciate the incredible qualities and talents my child possesses, even if they differ from what I envisioned.
Let's keep it real! Your child is not here to fulfill your dreams; they're here to create their own. And in embracing that truth, you might just find a more profound and authentic joy in the journey of parenthood.