The Practice of Parenting

Parenting is a *practice* on a journey of perpetual discovery. It invites us to consider our unconscious beliefs about power dynamics, motivation using rewards and punishments, and responding to the underlying needs communicated by everyone’s behavior.

Defining and refining your own goal as a parent helps you set a direction for this journey. Here’s my job description, speaking to my own children:

It’s my job to keep you safe, to evaluate expectations and remove barriers, to help you make meaning of your strengths, and to teach you tools and strategies that empower you to reach your goals as your authentic self.

I am always learning ways to do it better. Join me to hear how it’s going so far.
Kristen Balhoff, Parent Educator and mom of 3