• Purposeful Parenthood

    Accepting Children for Who They Are

    accepting children for who they are: Henry and Tate in downtown Austin

    Last week, Daphne commented on this post and connected me to Tilt Parenting. I spent a solid hour going down the rabbit hole. First, I watched the Ted Talk. Then I downloaded every PDF. I read lengthy descriptions and manifestos. At the end of it all, I came up for air. I declared (to myself): It’s time to start accepting our children for who they are.

    I know this is such an easy concept for many. But it’s hard for me. I haven’t understood—really understood—that Henry processes the world differently.

    We will be getting started on another formal evaluation soon. (We did one when he was in kindergarten, but … Read More

  • Purposeful Parenthood

    Mightier Self-Regulation Training: Could It Help?

    mightier self-regulation: Henry and Tate playing at a food court

    Last week we experienced low lows and high highs as a family. We have a lot going on right now (although I always want to acknowledge that there’s way worse stuff going on for so many other families around the world). Matt and I are both feeling a ton of stress via work. We bring that stress home. It hinders our ability to fill our children’s “buckets.” Then they act out because they need connection. Then their behavior pushes us further away instead of bringing us closer. When I feel particularly low, I grasp for next steps. I finally decided to move forward with Mightier self-regulation training. Have you heard … Read More

  • Purposeful Parenthood

    How to Be a Better Parent: I’m Trying My Best!

    how to be a better parent

    I’m conscious of how the blogosphere is increasing Modern Parenting Anxiety and turning parenting into a project. Therefore, I don’t mean to contribute to those negative things, you all. But I am constantly grappling with how to be a better parent. And this is the space where I share all my feelings and thoughts. So here we are.

    Last week was a week of extremes in our household. Henry had his two worst nights in a long time—back to back. And then he had his two best nights, also back to back.

    The difference?

    Me.

    What Henry Needs from Me

    I’m learning what Henry needs from me. He needs me … Read More