#responding with sensitivity

[hobomama]

Having unrealistic expectations, for example expecting your toddler to sit quietly during dinner for an hour, sets parents up for frustration – thereby undermining gentle intentions.  Imagining malicious intention can be even worse.  Imagine your 11 month old throwing food off of their tray.  If you imagine she is doing it intentionally to annoy you your reaction will be very different than if you imagine she is having a great time learning about her power over objects.

[hobomama]

The Smooth Exit – An Alternative Approach to Blowing Up or Shutting Down | Presence Parenting

Do you stalk off and pout or brew in negative thoughts? Consider exiting smoothly instead.

I also recommend you check out Amy's Sane Parenting Challenge.

[hobomama]

A reminder of the point of gentle parenting: connection.

[hobomama]

Amazing list of tips that are respectful to your children and calming for both of you.

[hobomama]

Beautiful.

There is a common belief that it takes two to engage in a conflict. One on Side A and one on Side B. But that’s not true. It only takes one. One to be insisting on their way. One to be holding the other to certain expectations. One to not listen. One to be inflexible. One to claim the power. One to hold too tightly. One who won’t let it go.

Don’t be that one.

Be the adult.

Be the one who understands. The one who creates space for possibility. The one who says, “let’s see.” The one who puts tender loving care before total leveraged control. The one who gets down on their level. The one who remembers what it’s like to be little. The one who gives hope and can be counted on. The one who paves the way to trust.

[hobomama]

Aw.

[hobomama]

Beautiful post on honoring our children's needs and offering comfort at any age, written by Dionna of Code Name: Mama for SortaCrunchy, and featuring one of my poems!