by smaclaughlin | Jan 6, 2016 | communication, connection parenting, dreams
Surely you’ve seen the diagram of “Your comfort zone,” and, “Where the magic happens.” If you haven’t, I’ll wait while you go Google it. Or just know that the two spheres in the illustration do not overlap AT ALL. There’s a reason for that: Comfort zone = Feeling...
by smaclaughlin | Jul 5, 2015 | anger, communication, connection parenting, discipline, emotional intelligence, handling meltdowns
Feelings and emotions: What do they do? Why are they important? From a neurological perspective, emotions are messages. Feelings are essentially our brains and bodies in communication with each other. If we feel scared, our brains sends chemicals into our bodies that...
by smaclaughlin | May 3, 2015 | anger, communication, connection parenting, emotional intelligence, parenting
I’m honored and delighted to share this guest post excerpt from Parenting with Presence, by Susan Stiffleman with you. Susan’s voice and message are clear in this must-have book. I found myself reading things in her new book that I teach and say all the...
by smaclaughlin | Apr 29, 2015 | advocacy for children, connection parenting, tips and advice
I have been in the field of education, child care, or social work for the past 20 years. I have spent my entire life working with young children and their families. This work, paired with hundreds of books, and many trainings on trauma, crisis intervention, behavior...
by smaclaughlin | Apr 8, 2015 | advocacy for children, brain development, communication, connection parenting
Ever get stuck thinking your kid is just like you? Or nothing like you? I’m guessing the truth lies somewhere in between. I always say that the answer to the, “Is it Nurture or Nature?” debate, is, “Both!” It is safe to assume that there...
by smaclaughlin | Nov 9, 2014 | balance, connection parenting, developmental expectations, discipline, emotional intelligence, modeling, play
Play is the first language your child speaks. It’s one that can be sustained and enjoyed for life if it is nurtured. When we tune in and play with children—really connect and play—we offer them a mirror of worthiness. Babies and kids receive that loving attention and...