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Conscious parenting begins with the parent. We commit to understanding and regulating our own emotions. The child is not responsible for our emotions, we are.
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Children are inherently good. This is the lens. We see them as good.
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We love our kids for who they are and not wanting them to be different. It is about acceptance, full stop.
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We trust that they will develop at their own pace and in their own way. Providing opportunities for development rather than pushing for progress yields healthier children.
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Children are natural learners. They are intensely curious, and will gravitate toward their own interests. We embrace the curiosity and provide them with opportunities to experiment, learn and play.
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We see children as equals and deserving of the same respect. Little does not mean less important or of lesser value.
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We help ourselves and our children to become emotionally intelligent, able to identify, feel and communicate their full spectrum of emotions. Sadness and anger are just as acceptable as happiness.
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We empower our children to trust themselves, to have a strong voice and to be confident. We do this by listening intently, honouring feelings, involving our children in decision making, and respecting the choices of our children.
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Trust forms the bedrock of the parent-child relationship. When we ask for our children to listen to us, we lean on a strong relationship and do not use physical force, manipulation, or threats. Honesty and transparency are key in building trust.
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We set limits and boundaries that are fair, consistent and rooted in the best interest of the child and family.
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We involve the child in the creation of family agreements.
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How we communicate with our children matters. The words and tone we use communicates to our children how we feel about them. We speak to children with the respect.
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Our children know that we are not perfect. We fail, we make mistakes and we try again.
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If we make a mistake, if we hurt our children, we sincerely apologize and repair the broken trust.
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We teach by what we do and by who we are. Actions speak louder than words. Everyday our children are watching, everyday we are modelling behaviour to be learned.
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It is collaborative not combative. We look for win-win situations.
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Becoming aware of our children’s needs and helping them meet their needs, our children will feel calmer and more understood.
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The child’s behavior is a form of communication. Challenging behaviour often points to an unmet need. If we are curious and patient, we can help our children in a constructive way.
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We help children develop and internal sense of right and wrong based on love, empathy and compassion.
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There is no substitute for quality time. We aim for regular, uninterrupted time where we are fully present.
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We are introspective and self reflective. We commit to lifelong learning about ourselves and children.
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We take care of ourselves as parents and our needs, so that we can best be there for our kids, in a present and loving way.
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We simplify our lives, and place importance on what matters.