Peace and Parenting: How to Parent without Punishments
346 episodes - English - Latest episode: 15 days ago - ★★★★★ - 313 ratingsHave you tried Gentle Parenting? Are you a fan of Attachment but just can’t put it all together? Are you sick of parenting with the ideas of yelling and shame and looking for something that feels better, is different, but still has a sense of boundaries and limits?
Welcome to the Peace and Parenting Podcast with Michelle Kenney, M. Ed. Michelle is a former teacher, counselor, certified parenting coach, mom of two teens, recovering yeller, and perfectionist who parents without using punishments altogether. And guess what? It works! On this show, you’ll learn the how behind having kids who are completely UNPUNISHED but who are also successful, kind, loving, and know how to follow directions.
Twice a week, Michelle shares her insights and expertise on connective parenting through her interviews with experts and Q&A sessions with struggling parents. If you have exhausted all other options and don't know what to do next, this could be the parenting strategy you've been searching for.
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Episodes
Are We Ruining Our Kids? The Truth About Parenting Imperfections
April 04, 2024 09:05 - 16 minutes - 15 MBAre we unwittingly damaging our children by repeating the mistakes of our own upbringing? Today, I'm diving into a question that plagues many of us: Are we ruining our kids? This thought can grip us in moments of frustration and self-doubt. But let me tell you something: You're not alone, and you're definitely not ruining your kids. As parents, we're often held to impossible standards, haunted by our own childhood traumas, and bombarded with societal pressure to be flawless. But here's the ...
Case Study: How to Break Free from the “Perfectionist” Mindset
April 02, 2024 09:05 - 19 minutes - 18.1 MBParenting can be challenging, especially in a world that often values achievement and busyness over connection. Have you ever found yourself caught up in the trap of prioritizing tasks over building stronger bonds with your children? It's a common struggle. Today, I have a heartfelt conversation with Erica, a mother who shared her deeply personal experience of transitioning into motherhood through adoption. Her journey highlights the pressures of perfectionism and the impact of her own dysre...
Does Your Child Have a Love-Hate Relationship with School
March 28, 2024 09:05 - 15 minutes - 13.8 MBImagine cutting your kids' chaotic bedtime routine in half and witnessing your relationship thrive in the process. That's exactly what unfolded for Karla and her husband. Struggling to manage the nightly wind-down of their three lively children, they discovered that the secret wasn't in a more rigid schedule but in fostering a deeper bond. Today, I am touched to share Karla's story of transformation. We unravel how switching up bedtime duties and dedicating special time led to stunning impr...
Case Study: How to Cut Bedtime Chaos in Half
March 26, 2024 09:05 - 22 minutes - 20.4 MBImagine cutting your kids' chaotic bedtime routine in half and witnessing your relationship thrive in the process. That's exactly what unfolded for Karla and her husband. Struggling to manage the nightly wind-down of their three lively children, they discovered that the secret wasn't in a more rigid schedule but in fostering a deeper bond. Today, I am touched to share Karla's story of transformation. We unravel how switching up bedtime duties and dedicating special time led to stunning impr...
Are We Unknowingly Pushing Our Teens into Lying
March 21, 2024 09:05 - 17 minutes - 15.6 MBToday I'm diving into a recent eye-opening experience with my teenage daughter, Pia. Picture this: it's a typical evening until I receive a text that sends my heart racing. Pia and her friend have taken an Uber to the ice cream shop, leaving me puzzled and anxious. What unfolds next reveals a deeper layer of trust, peer pressure, and the delicate balance of parenting teens. Join me as I navigate the complexities of teenage autonomy, parental trust, and the blurred lines between protection a...
Case Study: Navigating Neurodiversity with Connective Parenting
March 19, 2024 09:05 - 19 minutes - 17.4 MBNavigating the emotional ebbs and flows of neurodivergent children can feel like sailing uncharted seas. But what if I told you there's a way to foster connection and understanding even in the midst of these turbulences? Today we delve deep into the unique world of parenting neurodivergent children and how prioritizing connection can make all the difference. My guest, Eloise, shares her heartfelt journey of discovering that empathy and genuine connection were the game-changers she needed to...
Are Rules Ruining Your Relationship with Your Kids
March 13, 2024 09:05 - 14 minutes - 13.5 MBAs parents, we often struggle to balance enforcing rules and maintaining a deep, meaningful connection with our children. It's natural to believe that strict guidelines are necessary for shaping our kids' behavior. However, we may unintentionally undermine the very trust and bond we seek to build with them. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate the complexities of rule-based parenting. Let's explore the underlying motivations driving our rule obsession and how we can cultivate ...
Case Study: How to Go from Controlling to Empathy-Based Discipline
March 12, 2024 09:05 - 19 minutes - 18.1 MBAre you caught in the cycle of correction and control in your parenting journey? Today, I am joined by Nadia, a parent who bravely shares her journey from a place of control to discovering the impact of connective parenting. Nadia candidly shares her experiences of shedding the instinct to correct and control and embracing empathy and connection instead. Through her journey, she unveils her challenges in stepping away from conventional parenting methods and the profound shifts she witnessed...
I Want My Kids to Thank Me
March 07, 2024 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.4 MBAs parents, we put a lot of effort and care into raising our children. However, have you ever felt like you crave recognition for your hard work? As I look back on my own journey as a parent, I've realized that the validation we seek doesn't necessarily have to come from our children. Instead, it should come from within ourselves. Today, I encourage you to think about your own search for validation in parenting. Let's explore together how we can re-parent ourselves, break free from outdated ...
The Productivity Trap: Prioritizing Connection Over Productivity
March 05, 2024 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.7 MBIs your relentless focus on productivity sending the message to your child that self-care is secondary to achievement? Today, we delve deep into the subtle dynamics of threats, bribes, and the elusive quest for productivity. In a society that glorifies busyness and achievement, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that success lies in crossing off tasks from our to-do lists. But what if I told you there's a more authentic way to foster cooperation and harmony within our families? F...
How Purposeful Play Can Help Gross Motor Development with Dr. Emily Heisey & Dr. Matt Otteman
February 29, 2024 10:05 - 22 minutes - 20.4 MBToday, I have a special treat for you as I welcome Dr. Emily Heisey (PT, DPT) and Dr. Matt Otteman (DC), experts in pediatric development. They are the co-owners of KinActive Kids and are well-known for their innovative tips related to child development. In this episode, we explore the world of physical development in children and discuss the significance of purposeful play and ways to support children with developmental delays. We will also discuss parents' emotional journey while dealing w...
Coming to the End of Your Parenting Journey
February 27, 2024 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.3 MBHave you ever stopped to wonder how your parenting choices today might shape your relationship with your children as they venture into adulthood? I've been contemplating this a lot lately, especially as I anticipate my daughters' transition to independence. Today I open up about my reflections on traditional parenting methods and the profound impact they could have had on my relationship with my strong-willed daughter. 🔗 Interested in our 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call with one of our...
System Restraint Collapse: It’s Why Your Child Comes Home a Different Person
February 22, 2024 20:30 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MBDoes your child come home from school and seem like a completely different person? From the moment they step into the classroom to the final bell, our children navigate a complex world of expectations, relationships, and emotions. But what happens when the pressure becomes too much to bear? How do they cope when their systems are stretched to the limit? Today I want to explore the signs of system restraint collapse and share practical strategies to support your child during these vulnerable...
Trust the Process: It Gets Worse Before It Gets Better
February 20, 2024 10:05 - 14 minutes - 13.3 MBHave you ever felt that no matter how much you try to connect with your child, it seems to get more challenging? As a parent, I understand how frustrating it can be to invest time and effort into connective parenting only to face unexpected hurdles. But don't worry, I'm here to tell you you're not alone. Based on my extensive experience coaching parents and witnessing countless family dynamics, I understand why transitions to connective parenting can stir up resistance and intensify behavi...
Do You Have a Listening Partner Yet?
February 15, 2024 10:05 - 15 minutes - 14.3 MBDo you ever feel like you're on an emotional rollercoaster as a parent? It's normal to feel this way, but finding ways to keep your emotional balance is important. Today on Peace and Parenting, I discuss the importance of a listening partner. This means having someone you can talk to and share your feelings with when you're feeling overwhelmed. But listening partnerships are not just about venting. They're about finding ways to improve our emotional well-being and build a healthier relation...
8 Phrases You Shouldn’t Say to an Upset Child
February 13, 2024 10:05 - 15 minutes - 13.8 MBHave you ever considered how your words might affect your child's emotional well-being during moments of distress? Today, we delve into eight phrases that might unintentionally escalate rather than alleviate their upset. From the seemingly innocent "use your words" to the dreaded "calm down," we'll uncover why these phrases can hinder rather than help our children in times of need. 🔗 Join my new Connected Parent Mastermind designed for parents who want to strengthen their connection with th...
7 Things Connected Parents DON’T Do
February 08, 2024 10:05 - 20 minutes - 18.7 MBMany parents often ask me for advice on how to help their children become more resilient and self-reliant. However, today, I am going to share a few things that parents should avoid doing to help their children thrive in the face of adversity. These include not rushing to their children's rescue when facing frustration and not dismissing their children's emotions. By adopting a nurturing approach that balances support and autonomy, connected parents can encourage their children's self-relian...
Preparing Our Children for the Real World
February 06, 2024 10:05 - 12 minutes - 11.5 MBHave you ever wondered if our loving and nurturing parenting style prepares our kids for the harsh realities of the real world? Well, let's dive into this important discussion today as I explore a fascinating question from a concerned dad: How does our parenting method equip our children to face a world that might not be as gentle as our homes? From the very first moments of life, our children start understanding the real world – from a hospital delivery room to preschool dramas and adolesc...
Break Free from Rewards and Punishments
February 01, 2024 10:05 - 14 minutes - 13.4 MBHello, parents! Have you ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of rewards and consequences, searching for a way out? Let's talk about it. Today, I'll answer a question from my Instagram community: How can we break free from the constraints of rewards and consequences in parenting? But before we dive into specific strategies, let's take a moment to consider what you want from your parenting journey. Do you want a quick fix to get your kids to do chores, or do you want to build a lifelong, har...
How to Raise Resilient Kids
January 30, 2024 10:05 - 14 minutes - 13.6 MBWhat if the key to raising resilient children lies in our ability to navigate the delicate balance between mistakes and growth? Today we explore the profound impact of internal shame and guilt, which can guide us toward moral integrity. However, what about the external shame that is often unknowingly incorporated into traditional parenting practices? I will share personal insights challenging the norm by examining how corrections, lectures, and judgments may unintentionally erode our childre...
You Can Trust Your Kids, Here’s Why
January 25, 2024 10:05 - 14 minutes - 13.7 MBHey there, amazing parents! Ever wondered if you could truly trust your child's moral compass, especially when they seem to make those tiny, questionable decisions? Today we're diving into a profound exploration of why trusting our little ones is the key to unlocking a beautiful parent-child relationship. Many believe that children are too young to understand the difference between right and wrong. However, did you know that by the age of two, they have already learned a significant amount ...
The Power of Being the Safe Parent
January 23, 2024 10:05 - 14 minutes - 13.1 MBEver felt the pressure to have kids who always toe the line, never stepping out of bounds? Let's challenge that notion today as we unravel the beauty of raising children who make mistakes, who try on different behaviors, and who are authentically themselves. But here's the catch: creating a secure connection with your child doesn't always mean smooth sailing. Discover why moments of off-track behaviors are actually signs that your child feels safe expressing their true feelings. We'll navig...
Navigating Your Child's Unkindness with Grace
January 18, 2024 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.4 MBAre you a parent who struggles with how to respond when your child says hurtful things? Do you feel caught between wanting to discipline them and wanting to maintain a strong bond? What if I told you there's another approach to help you build a closer connection with your child while teaching them important life lessons? In a world where punishment and consequences are the norm, it can be hard to imagine a different way of parenting. But by using affection and play, you can turn your child'...
The Power of Limits and Boundaries Instead of Punishments and Rewards
January 16, 2024 10:05 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MBImagine that you have just asked your child to clean their room, but instead of cooperating, you are met with resistance. Frustration builds up, and you think, "How can I make them listen?" Today, we will explore the essence of discipline and understand the significant difference between limits and consequences. In a world where traditional approaches often rely on punishments and rewards, I want to introduce you to a more empathetic path. The aim is to unravel the misconception that limits...
Breaking the 'Punching Bag' Parenting Myth
January 11, 2024 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.8 MBHave you ever experienced your child's unkind comments that made you feel like their emotional punching bag? In today's episode, we will delve into this common belief that we, as parents, often feel victimized by our children's behavior. Let's explore why we tend to assume this role and challenge this perception. We will examine the power dynamics between us and our little ones and see if there is a more empowering way to handle such situations. 🔗 Interested in our 1:1 Coaching? Book a Disc...
What Is Connection and How Do I Use It in My Parenting
January 09, 2024 10:05 - 12 minutes - 11.9 MBLet me share a secret with you about connection, it's not about more time; it's about making every moment count. Today on the Peace and Parenting podcast I delve into the magic of connection. What is it, really? It's not about sacrificing every second or dodging boundaries. It's about building a holistic relationship with room for mess-ups and repair. It's about creating a safe space where mistakes are part of the journey, not the end of it. Plus, I have an exciting invitation for you! Joi...
The College Conundrum: Unveiling the Myths Around College and Success
January 04, 2024 10:05 - 10 minutes - 9.55 MBDo you feel society’s pressure pushing our kids to go to college? Well, today on the Peace and Parenting Podcast I want to break free from the college-or-bust narrative! In this episode, I dive deep into the pressures our children face to go to college, not just in the U.S., but across the globe. My daughter, Esme, recently faced the daunting decision of leaving for college, sparking a candid conversation at our dinner table. From alternative paths like community college to challenging the l...
Replacing “Good Mom” Syndrome for Good Enough
January 02, 2024 10:05 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MBImagine this: you're at the grocery store, your child throws an unexpected tantrum, and suddenly, you feel the judgmental eyes of society on you. I get it; I've been there. In this episode I unravel the myth of the "good mom" and the relentless pressure we put on ourselves. Together, we'll explore the historical roots of this pressure, the need for control, and the generational traumas we unknowingly carry. Let's break free from the cycle of judgment and embrace the imperfect, beautiful jour...
The D-Word: When and How to Navigate a Divorce (With Kate Anthony)
December 28, 2023 10:05 - 34 minutes - 31.4 MBAre you currently in a toxic relationship, but you're staying in it for the sake of your children? Today, I am joined by Kate Anthony, the author of "The D-Word," as we explore the topic of divorce, co-parenting, and the difficult decision-making process that many women have to go through when considering divorce. Kate shares her insights on toxic marriages, societal roles, and how they can affect children. As a divorced parent myself, we both share our personal experiences, discussing our c...
My 30-Day Connected Parenting Challenge for You
December 26, 2023 10:05 - 9 minutes - 8.7 MBMany parents often come to me and say "I don't have enough time to be more connected with my kids." They feel that connecting with their children requires a lot of time and effort. However, my answer to that is that the more connected you are to your children, the more time you will eventually have. You can find small moments in your everyday routine to connect with your kids and you will notice a significant difference in your relationship with them. Today, I am thrilled to announce the la...
How to Play With Your Tweens and Teens (with Mary Van Geffen)
December 21, 2023 10:05 - 29 minutes - 27.3 MBAre you struggling to bridge the gap with your older kids through play? Today I am joined by parenting coach Mary Van Geffen in a beautiful conversation that explores the magic of play, especially with the often misunderstood tweens and teens. Mary unveils the secrets of connecting with "spicy" children through play, emphasizing its role as their love language. From penguin wrestling to dance parties, Mary and I share practical tips, creative play ideas, and some unconventional approaches th...
Why I Don’t Use Rewards-Based Systems When Parenting
December 19, 2023 10:05 - 16 minutes - 15.3 MBAre you using star charts or food rewards to motivate your kids? Do you think it's making a difference in how they respond? Today I want to take you on a reflective journey into the world of parenting strategies. Drawing from my teaching experience, I question the effectiveness of these methods and explore the individual responses our children have to them. I’ll share the long-term effects of relying on external motivators and uncover the transformative power of connected parenting. It’s tim...
Case Study: A Playful Approach to Discipline
December 14, 2023 10:05 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MBToday, I talk with a parent who is going through a common issue that most of us have faced at some point in our parenting journey - a child who refuses to communicate during tough moments. Kimberly, a follower of my podcast, is experiencing the highs and lows of raising her 3.5-year-old. Despite practicing connective parenting for over a year, she is struggling as it is difficult to connect with her child when they are not willing to communicate. I share her with some insights on shifting fo...
Why I Talk to the Aggressive Child First
December 12, 2023 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.5 MBWhen your children are playing, sometimes aggression can surface, and one of your kids might start hitting, causing screaming and crying. Your first instinct might be to console the hurt child, but what if I told you that this approach may not be the best way to resolve the situation? Instead, intervening with connection, empathy, and love can create a turning point and help the aggressive child to calm down. Today, I share some real-life strategies and a counterintuitive approach that empha...
Case Study: The Sibling Argument Dilemma
December 07, 2023 10:05 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MBDo your kids often fight with each other and you're looking for a better way to handle such situations? Today, I have Shannon, one of my podcast listeners, on the show to help her tackle the sibling rivalry between her two daughters. Join us as I provide a unique perspective on why addressing the aggressor before the child who was hurt can help resolve the issue faster. We'll also take a deep dive into the complex web of family dynamics and explore how understanding the roots of sibling ri...
The Transformative Power of Special Time
December 05, 2023 10:05 - 19 minutes - 17.4 MBWhat if just 20 minutes a day could revolutionize your connection with your child? In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative power of "special time" in connective parenting. Join me as we unravel the magic of setting aside dedicated moments, navigating distractions, and witnessing the incredible impact on cooperation and family dynamics. Plus, special time isn't just for little ones – discover how this practice transcends age boundaries. Don't miss this chance to enhance your...
The Balance between Free Will and Control
November 30, 2023 10:05 - 12 minutes - 11.7 MBIn relationships, especially with your kids, it can be difficult to balance control and free will. Today, we'll explore the complex dynamics of autonomy and connection, and how they apply to parenting. We'll question the different standards we set for children, and consider the parallels between adult relationships and conventional parenting. Have you ever had a partner who tried to control you? Imagine living in a relationship where your free will is constantly suppressed. Now, think about ...
Case Study: Managing Emotions
November 28, 2023 10:05 - 34 minutes - 31.5 MBHave you ever found yourself struggling to manage the needs of your children, especially when they are of different ages and require different levels of attention? Parenting can sometimes feel like a never-ending challenge, and it's not always easy to stay calm and connected with your kids, especially when you're feeling overwhelmed. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Christina, one of my Instagram followers, to discuss this very topic. Christina had a great question that I'm ...
Navigating Tricky Holiday Moments
November 23, 2023 10:05 - 14 minutes - 13.6 MBAs we kick off the holiday season, I've got a special episode for all of you who are navigating family gatherings with kids. From questionable hugs to forced thank-yous, we explore why children shouldn't be burdened with these expectations. Today I discuss cultivating genuine connections, respecting a child's boundaries, and the power of play in diffusing tense moments. Learn how setting limits with a playful twist can transform family dynamics. And for those challenging sibling squabbles o...
Case Study: Preparing for and Recovering from Stimulating Events
November 21, 2023 10:05 - 18 minutes - 17.3 MBPicture this scenario: you have spent several hours at Chuck E. Cheese with your child, surrounded by flashing lights, loud noises, and annoying animatronics. It's time to leave but your three-year-old is throwing a tantrum because they want to stay. Today, my guest Shanon and I tackle the challenge of maintaining a strong connection with your child in stimulating environments. I share my secrets for fostering cooperation when traditional discipline methods just won't work. Join us as we ta...
Ditching Distraction for Genuine Connection
November 16, 2023 10:05 - 10 minutes - 9.42 MBEver tried distracting your kids when they’re in the middle of a meltdown, you know like “Hey, look at that cute puppy over there” or “Wow, a fire engine”. Today we delve into the world of parenting strategies, specifically the age-old methods of distraction and redirection. We'll explore the potential long-term impacts of steering our little ones away from their feelings. Could it inadvertently shape their coping mechanisms down the road? Spoiler alert: Connection is the key! Discover the m...
Parenting Your Quiet, Self-Deprecating Kids
November 14, 2023 10:05 - 11 minutes - 10.1 MBAre you a parent struggling to connect with a child who seems quiet, self-deprecating, and introverted in the face of challenges? You're not alone! I have been struggling with the unique dynamics of parenting children like this with my daughter, Pia. Today I’ll share my personal journey through the ups and downs of supporting Pia, who is transitioning to high school and grappling with schoolwork, low self-esteem, and a different temperament compared to her outspoken sister. The big question...
How to Stop Your Kids from Cursing without Using Punishments
November 09, 2023 10:05 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBWe've all been there – that cringe-worthy moment when your child drops the F-Bomb and you wonder where they picked it up. It can be frustrating and embarrassing, right? Well, today we're diving into the world of kids and profanity. I'll share my own experiences and some powerful insights to help you navigate this challenging phase with empathy and understanding. We'll explore why children might start using these words, the impact of our reactions as parents, and most importantly, how to hand...
Tantrums Are Necessary, Don’t Try to Stop Them
November 07, 2023 10:05 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MBAre you having a hard time dealing with your child's tantrums or meltdowns? Do you feel like you're all alone and helpless, especially when these emotional outbursts occur in public? I understand how difficult it can be because I've been there too. But I want to tell you something important: tantrums are not an indication of a "bad" child, and you shouldn't feel embarrassed about them. Today, I will discuss the significance of creating space for your child's emotions and utilizing these exp...
You Don’t Need Skills You Need Determination
November 02, 2023 09:05 - 13 minutes - 12.7 MBMany people think that the reason I am the parent I am today is because I was a calm and controlled person to begin with. Well, today I invite you to step into my shoes and explore my tumultuous upbringing, shaped by my parents' alcoholism, partying, and a heart-wrenching divorce. It wasn't an easy path. I embarked on a decade-long journey of personal growth, yet I felt ill-prepared to face my parenting challenges. What I realized is that, no matter where you come from, it's your determinati...
Stop Punishing Yourself
October 31, 2023 09:05 - 14 minutes - 12.9 MBI recently had a heart-to-heart conversation with a parent who was struggling with some very normal parenting challenges. However, she was too harsh on herself and kept blaming herself for the mistakes she made. It's common to feel guilty and ashamed when we make mistakes as parents, but today I want to help you break free from this cycle of self-shaming and focus on growth and self-compassion. We need to challenge the notion that perfection is the only way to be a good parent. In this epis...
Relax, It’s Fine: Underparenting with Caitlin Murray from Big Time Adulting
October 26, 2023 09:05 - 18 minutes - 17.1 MBJoin me in this episode for a refreshingly candid conversation with Caitlin Murray, the creative mind behind Big Time Adulting. Caitlin shares her parenting journey, which started as a way to cope with her son's leukemia diagnosis and turned into a humorous and realistic look at parenthood. We discuss the societal pressures parents face today, the struggle to be the "perfect parent," and the importance of embracing the ups and downs of motherhood without pretense. We explore how to handle n...
Unlocking Cooperation with the Key of Connection
October 24, 2023 09:05 - 13 minutes - 12.3 MBBeing a parent can be tough, especially when your children don't seem to be listening to you and following your guidance. It's a feeling that many parents can relate to and it can be frustrating at times. But did you know that there is a strong link between cooperation and the quality of your relationship with your child? Today I explore some practical strategies that you can use to encourage your kids to cooperate, from playful interactions to the power of asking just once. By implementing ...
Why Reasoning Fails and What to Do Instead
October 19, 2023 09:05 - 13 minutes - 12.7 MBAs parents, we often find ourselves in situations where we need to explain our decisions to our children. But what happens when our kids throw tantrums and refuse to listen to reason? In this episode, I will discuss some effective strategies that can help you deal with these challenging moments. I will explain why trying to reason with your child during a meltdown can often make things worse. Instead, I will offer tips on how to establish a strong connection with your child, even when they ...
It’s Okay to Feel Parenting Burnout
October 17, 2023 09:05 - 14 minutes - 13.5 MBToday we'll be exploring the topic of burnout - a feeling that is common among many of us, yet often kept to ourselves. As someone who has been a parent for 18 years, I understand the never-ending responsibilities that come with parenthood, as well as the unique challenges of raising children. Many parents can feel isolated and struggle to balance their personal identity with the demands of parenting, which can take a toll on their mental and emotional health. That's why it's essential to ma...