Deliberate Communication with our Kids

As the leader of an Attachment Parenting group in Columbus, OH I give parents the tools to connect with their kids and build a strong bond that fosters mutual respect as kids grow. Much of the time the "tool" I'm talking about come from group conversations based around core principals. Using gentle touch (massage, hugs, cuddles), for example, is a deep form of communication that lets kids know they are loved and cared for as they venture out to find their independence. My point is, I'm not giving them anything physical, perhaps a hand out or resource list, but our meetings are mainly focused on changing hearts and minds and supporting those hearts and minds, when needed.

Recently I've come upon two amazing Kickstarter campaigns that are aiming to provide actual, physical tools to help parents in their peaceful parenting goals. I'm happy to say, they've both been funded, but you can help them reach their stretch goals, as well as get your hands on some really helpful additions to your parenting "tool kit."

The first is Lori Petro's Concious Communication Cards. I can't wait to get these in my hands. I am an AP leader, but I often flail in the heat of the "bad behavior" moment with my kids and end up making the situation worse. I plan on pinning these all around the house - mainly in the kitchen, we always seem to be int he kitchen. When I imagine my 4 year old in the throws of a melt down - it's always on the kitchen floor. These cards will be a life saver.

The second by another parent educator, Suzanne Tucker, the Time-In Tool Kit. I have been talking up the benefits of time-ins, as opposed to time-outs, for a long time now. We have the "happy place" in our house where the kids go to chill out and get their emotions in check, sometimes they ask me to go with them, sometimes they want to be alone. I am really excited about adding the Time-In Tool kit to the "happy place" to assist them in learning about big emotions and how to deal.

I know a lot of adults, not excluding myself, who could have used more help in the emotion management department - if you know what I'm saying.