EPISODE SUMMARY:

Children are our pride and joy. We want them to develop into strong, independent,  and productive adults, who can take on the world. Yet, sometimes, the struggle to get a teens to see that we’re trying to help them and not “ruin their life”, is real.  Oftentimes, to keep our children safe, we “Boss-Parent” them, forcing them to comply with our rules. And while the child may surrender, this style of parenting can lead to more friction and conflict within the relationship.

Enter, Valerie Canino. After being raised by “boss” parents, Valerie decided that if she ever wanted children, she would choose to be a “guide” parent.  Valerie believes that our homes “don’t need to be a warzone”.  She creates an environment that fosters communication, independence, personal growth, and emotional intelligence for her children by practicing more progressive and stress-reducing parental strategies. It’s a parenting model that doesn’t have Mom (or dad) rocking in a chair in the corner (YES!)

Like in any other relationship, it is important that both parent and child are seen and heard. This allows for the formation of a healthy relationship where both can learn from one another without feeling attacked or judged by the other person’s perspective. Like parents, our children are just as entitled to their own feelings, emotions, and choices.

It is important that both sides communicate in a way that is direct, concise, and respectful. Creating a safe space for discussion allows for solutions to be discovered, and results in the cooperation parents seek and the respect our children require as they navigate young-adulthood.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• What “boss” parenting is.
• How to become a “guide” parent
• Why communication is key in reaching our teens
• How to strengthen our relationships with our children.

…And, much more!

Enjoy the “Tea”,

Nia (& Deb)