True North Parent Coaching: 10 things I wish I had known sooner as a parent

Here are 10 things I wish I had known sooner as a parent—and that I make sure to pass on to my parent coaching clients:

1. My Child’s Behavior Does Not Reflect My Parenting!

It’s so easy to internalize a child’s behavior as a reflection of our parenting. But remember, children act out for many reasons—developmental stages, sensory overload, emotional regulation struggles, or simply because they’re learning how to navigate the world. It’s important to separate your child’s behavior from your worth as a parent.

2. Everyone Has a Different Sensory Profile!

Every child experiences the world through their own unique sensory lens. Some may be highly sensitive to noise, textures, or even the way things smell. Others might seek out sensory input. Understanding your child's sensory profile (and your own) can help you respond more effectively and have more understanding and compassion for your child’s experience.

3. Connection = Cooperation

When a child feels connected to you, they are more likely to cooperate. Building trust and emotional connection lays the foundation for healthy interactions. It’s not about controlling behavior but about fostering an environment where they feel seen, heard, and safe. Sometimes something as simple as connecting before you correct.

4. Modeling is Powerful!

5. Try Not to Fix Everything!

6. Get Curious: What’s the Message Behind the Behavior?

7. Repair is Everything!

8. Kids Are Not Adults!

9. Share Yourself and Your Experience

10. Stay Present: Don’t Time Travel!

Please Click HERE to read them all in detail in my latest BLOG!

If you could use parent coaching support, please schedule a free 30 minute consultation call HERE.  Let's connect and talk about your struggles and how I can support you. You deserve more ease and peace, and get back to the JOY in parenting!  You don't need to do it alone!

Here's what one of my recent clients has to say about working with me:

"In late 2024 I found that my daily process of parenting my 11 year old son simply wasn't working. On a daily basis, our house would descended into arguments and chaos. All of this was affecting my children, my marriage, and my sense of self as a parent. I knew that I needed guidance. While some suggested therapy, I knew that the issue wasn't centered around how I felt, but how I acted. It was clear that my son was entering a new phase of his life. I knew intuitively that I need to change and adapt with him, but also knew that I could not do it alone. We hired Jenny in November of 2024. Through our 8 sessions together, she aligned my husband and I on our parenting strategies, she helped us see my son from a more empathic perspective, she helped me realize that I could not control him; that I could only control myself. Throughout our time together, she was patient and kind, but also willing to challenge my beliefs and expectations. Hiring Jenny was well worth the time and money spent - she allowed me to find the light at the end of the dark tunnel and, most importantly, has opened the door to allowing me to enjoy parenting again."