We all have a story: how did we get where we are now, who made a difference in our lives and what choices did we make along the way? We might not be conscious of the story but it plays a part in what we do. As parents, this story gains even more power. Suddenly it has the potential to be a script for how we parent. As Dan Siegel writes in Parenting from the Inside Out:
“If we have leftover or unresolved issues, it is crucial that we take the time to pause and reflect on our emotional responses to our children. By understanding ourselves, we give our children the chance to develop their own sense of vitality and the freedom to experience their own emotional worlds without restrictions and fear.”
To look at our story, we need space and safety. One of the things I love the most about Hand in Hand Parenting tools is the safety built into each class, with the listening ears of a confidential and warm group of leaders and parents. During the class, we look at our own experiences. Sometimes this is a chance to bring some old part of our story into the light where it can be safely examined. This is how we think more clearly about our life as parents.
Please contact me if you would like more information about upcoming classes or workshops. I have some scholarships available so the classes can be available to everyone.
You can also see these links:
Upcoming 6 week class, starting Oct. 26
Listening partner workshop, October 12
Listening for Good 