April's Intentional Conscious Parenting Tip

Building Emotional Intelligence Through Mindful Moments

As we welcome spring and new beginnings, consider focusing this month on helping your child develop emotional intelligence - a key skill that will serve them throughout life.

Practice This: Set aside 5 minutes each day for an "emotion check-in." Ask your child how they're feeling and really listen. Use specific emotion words beyond just "good" or "bad" to help expand their emotional vocabulary. Try "I notice you seem frustrated with that puzzle. Is that how you're feeling?"

Remember: Children learn emotional regulation by watching you. When you're feeling overwhelmed, model healthy coping by saying something like, "I'm feeling stressed right now, so I'm going to take three deep breaths to help myself calm down."

Quick Tip: Create a simple emotions chart with faces showing different feelings. This visual aid helps younger children identify and name what they're experiencing, making abstract emotions more concrete.

By consistently acknowledging emotions without judgment, you're teaching your child that all feelings are valid - it's how we respond to them that matters.

Thank you for joining us in supporting the inner light of the children,

Carol Lawrence and Stacy Toten

The Power of Touch in Conscious Parenting: Nurturing Connection Through Safe Skincare

As a parent, I knew from the start that I wanted to do things differently. Growing up, I learned so much about skincare from my family’s work in the field, and it became important to me in ways beyond just product knowledge. When I became a mother, my journey took a deeper turn as I discovered how touch and connection play essential roles in raising children with intentionality and compassion. Conscious parenting is a path that centers around deep, meaningful interactions, trusting intuition, and supporting each child’s unique journey. For me, touch has been at the heart of this approach.

In the world today, touch is something that many people are missing. We’ve moved to a place of personal distance—separate rooms, devices, even meals. But it’s touch that connects us to one another in profound ways, grounding us, bringing us back to the present, and helping us communicate care without words. As conscious parents, I believe that creating a daily practice of connecting through safe, nurturing touch can be transformative, both for our children and for ourselves.

The Importance of Touch for Growing Babies and Children

Intentional Conscious Parenting: Inspiring And Nurturing Emotional Intelligence

 

Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, manage, and express one's emotions in a healthy and constructive way. It's a crucial skill that impacts a child's self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. 

As parents, we can encourage emotional intelligence by validating our child's emotions. Instead of dismissing their feelings, acknowledge them. Let your child know that it's okay to feel what they're feeling. 

For example, Carol was recently at a homeschooling movie day event with her granddaughter and a group of other homeschoolers. Some of the scenes were emotional invoking strong feelings for some of the children. The children already had an emotional connection to this movie, as they had previously read The Wild Robot together. There were tears shed. All the parents were very supportive allowing the children to continue watching the movie and expressing their feelings. This is how they learn, process, and become in touch with their emotions. 

Intentional Conscious Parenting: Inspiring And Nurturing Trust

Trust is the bedrock of any relationship and is especially crucial in a parent-child relationship. 

A child who trusts their parent feels safe and secure, knowing they have someone who will always be there for them. 

To foster trust, be consistent in your actions and words. If you make a promise to your child, make sure you keep it. This teaches them that they can rely on you. Don’t make empty promises or threaten unrealistic punishments. 

An important aspect of building trust is creating a safe and nurturing home environment. This means ensuring that your child feels loved, accepted, and secure at home. 

Encourage positive behaviors, reinforce good habits, and provide a reliable routine. 

Avoid harsh criticism or punishment, as these can damage your child's sense of security and trust.

Intentional Conscious Parenting: Inspiring And Nurturing Connection

Imagine taking a walk down a path with your child. It's a beautiful sunny day, the flowers are blooming and the sky is blue. 

Every few steps, your child stops to inspect a bug, pick up a leaf, or ask a question, looking to you for guidance. 

How you respond, your attentiveness and your engagement truly matters. It's in those precious moments we get to demonstrate our connectedness. 

Here Are A Few Questions To Ask Yourself Before Making Your Next Purchase

I'm constantly purging old clothes, unwanted items and making sure my homes energy can flow. When I'm amidst of too much clutter I feel flustered, stuck, and irritable. 

My wish is that if your are feeling the same way you'll ponder why and ask yourself these questions before your next shopping trip. 

Supporting Children As They Build Their Foundations During Their First 10 Years Of Life

Welcome to Intentional Conscious Parenting. My name is Carol and I want to share a story with you.

I have three granddaughters. One of them lives with me and the other two visit us regularly throughout the week. They are ages 3, 6 and 7.

Spending as much time with them is on purpose. I know how critical the first 7-10 years of life are for helping children build a strong foundation. Children of all ages need to feel loved, feel seen, have safe spaces, and benefit from a conscious support system. Young children especially need safe spaces to feel and practice their emotions. Along with my dedicated sons, awesome daughter-in-law, close friends, and relatives, all three girls have a wonderful support system and I’m very grateful for this.

At the same time, I know how important my role is. We have powerful life strands and precious bonds. All three girls will walk different paths throughout their lives. My hope is that what they absorb and learn from me will help guide them as they traverse their life adventures. 

We feel raising kids in a present and conscious way is very important. That's why Stacy and I created this blog and wrote our ebook, 10 Ways To Parent Consciously: Parenting In The New Paradigm. Our book is for those seeking to shift from traditional parenting to a more mindful present approach.

Back to my story. Spending time with my granddaughters brings me an incredible amount of joy. We have lots of fun going on adventures and growing together. I thought I would share more often some of the things we like to do.

Last night we had a sleepover and read these four books. 

The hug who got stuck by Andrew Newman (We reviewed this book here on our Intentional Conscious Parenting blog) Andrew brilliantly and lovingly teaches children how to access their hearts and get free from sticky thoughts. If you want to flashback in time with us, watch our interview with Andrew seven years ago. 

The Lovables in the Kingdom of Self-Esteem by Diane Loomans. (I gave this book to my sons in 1992 and read it regularly to them) This book helps children to feel unique, confident, enthusiastic, and loved. 

25 Fun Summer Activities for Kids

Summer is the perfect time for kids to enjoy the great outdoors, soak up the sun, and create lasting memories. As a parent, you want to make sure your children have a-filled summer break that is both entertaining and educational. 

From outdoor adventures to creative indoor projects, there is something for every child to enjoy. So get ready for a summer of fun!

To help you plan a summer full of excitement, here are 25 fun summer activities for kids that will keep them engaged and entertained all season long. Be sure to read all the way through or skip to the bottom for a PDF link to save for a handy reminder.

Teaching Children About The Power Of Their Minds

The following is an excerpt from our eBook, 10 Ways To Parent Consciously; Parenting In The New Paradigm.

Teaching children the power of their thoughts and how to create different outcomes. 

Children are very tuned in to their own needs. The foods they like or don't like, the people they feel comfortable and uncomfortable around. There are reasons for this. They are not being difficult or snobs. They are unaware of this type of behavior until parents, school, society, or friends teach it to them. 

Change is always constant. Teach valuable tools on how to roll with change. Change can be scary for most humans. Their comfort zone is their safe zone. What they don't realize, is that changing something or even going after something they want or feel could be their pot of gold. Their pot of gold could be mental, physical, spiritual, or financial. Some people become stagnant and paralyzed with life until they realize the gift that comes out of change can be freedom. Usually, children are resilient and adapt to change much easier than adults due to their ability to live more in the present moment. 

Teaching Children Gratitude is All About Their Attitude

Teaching children gratitude is all about their attitude but more importantly it's about the parents attitude and the mirror image they portray to their children and the rest of the world to see.

Gratitude is such a brilliant gift that has been bestowed upon us if we choose it. The sophistication of this gift is simple. It is a choice. Be thankful for what you have, who you are and who you can be. It's all about perception. It doesn't matter what societal status you come from, what your wallet has in it or how you were culturally raised. Be thankful for what you have and feel right now in this exact moment in time. 

Navigating Online Parenting Advice In An AI Driven World

Whenever you become a new parent, everyone seems to have parenting tips to impart upon you. We can remember strangers at the grocery store coming up to us offering their personal stories and advice. Friends, relatives, there’s no shortage of parenting wisdom. We would always keep what resonated and let go of what didn’t. 

In 2024 you not only have the influence and advice from your friends and family, you have digital resources and Ai influence at your fingertips. 

As parents in the digital age, you are constantly bombarded with information on how to raise your children. From parenting blogs to social media groups, to Google searches, the internet is a treasure trove of advice and tips. However, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, navigating online parenting advice has become more complex than ever before.

With AI algorithms shaping all of our online experiences, it can be overwhelming to sift through the vast amount of information available. It can also be limiting. How do you know which sources are credible? How can you discern between genuine advice and misleading information? These are the questions that many parents grapple with in an era where AI plays a significant role in curating the content consumed.

How to Continue Nurturing Yourself During The Parenting Process

 

Parenting is a beautiful journey, but it can also be all-consuming. As a parent, it's easy to get caught up in the daily demands and responsibilities of raising a child, and sometimes, we can lose sight of ourselves in the process. It's crucial to remember that you are important and your self-care matters. In this blog post, we will explore various ways to continue nurturing yourself during your parenting process, from incorporating your creative expression into your parenting life to prioritizing self-care as a means of being an example of well-being.

Don't Lose Yourself During Your Parenting Process

Creating a Joyful and Stress-Free Holiday Season with Family: An Intentional Conscious Parenting Guide

 

Staying Present and Enjoying the Holiday Season as a Family

The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the joy of spending quality time with loved ones. As parents, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from the true spirit of the season. However, by making a conscious effort to stay present and prioritize family time, we can create lasting memories and truly enjoy the holiday season with our children. How can we make the most of this special time and create a sense of togetherness as a family? Let’s explore some practical tips and strategies for staying present and enjoying the holiday season with our loved ones. Set Realistic Expectations

Working On Ourselves So We Become Better Parents

When I was thinking about what message I want to share with you today it was clear there's a huge focus on needing to release, go inward and expand beyond all the timelines at play, taking place collectively and individually. 

As the quickening continues creating an incredible amount of swirling unstable energy many of us can feel the energy of excitement or uneasiness in the air. (It all depends on what you are tapping into and your viewpoint.) 

A true metamorphosis is an individual's journey and I feel many of us are on this journey right now individually but also collectively. I myself have been through a crazy rollercoaster of releasing the past few years, from processing loved ones behaviors, being present through the final years of a loved ones journey, being surrounded by the very young and the very old, and by going through my own very real health scare, I have witnessed multiple timelines and experiences. 

When we work on our inner selves and our own personal growth our outer circumstances begin to change. Chaos can often ensue as you're stirring up stuck beliefs, stuck energy, old baggage and negativity. We are watching this play out on the world stage right now. 

There are four areas I want to draw your attention to as we all go through the next few years of transformation.

October's Intentional Conscious Parenting Tip: Adding Variety to Your Child's Life

As parents, we often find ourselves settling into routines and sticking to what we know works for our children. While this can provide stability and comfort, it's important to remember the value of introducing variety into our child's life. This Fall, let's make a conscious effort to expand their horizons by exposing them to a variety of activities, experiences, and foods. By doing so, we can help them develop a sense of curiosity, adaptability, and a broader perspective on the world around them.

Exploring Different Activities

Children thrive on new experiences and opportunities to learn. By exposing them to a variety of activities, you can spark their curiosity and help them discover new interests and talents. Consider the following:

Firstly, take advantage of local community events and festivals. These often offer a wide range of activities suitable for children of all ages. From arts and crafts workshops to interactive science exhibits, there is something for everyone. By attending these events, you expose your child to different cultures, traditions, and hobbies. Locally, it's the season to visit local pumpkin patches, apple pressing events and Halloween parties. What events are taking place in your area?

4 Ways To Support Struggling Families Amid High Prices

Helping Families in Need: Ways to Alleviate the Struggle of High Prices

Imagine the stress and anxiety of not being able to provide enough food for your family. Unfortunately, this is the reality for many families today, as the high prices of food and everyday living costs make it increasingly difficult to put meals on the table. 

There are ways we can all come together to help these families in need. In this blog post, we will explore several actionable ways to make a difference and ensure that no family goes hungry. As things get more crazier it's going to take everyone banding together to make sure the children are getting fed.

September's Intentional Conscious Parenting Tip: Guiding Kids Through a Changing World

September's Intentional Conscious Parenting Tip: Guiding Kids Through a Changing World

September. The air begins to hold a hint of autumn's crispness, the leaves begin their slow transition into a blend of colors, and our children are adjusting to a new academic year. But this September isn't just about the changing seasons or back-to-school/homeschooling routines. It's about facing a world that feels different, a world that may seem more chaotic and unbalancing for some parents and their children.

News headlines scream of climate change, political unrest, and public health crises. The uncertainty and fear that you may feel can easily seep into your parenting, creating an atmosphere of anxiety in your home. But it doesn't have to be this way. As parents, we have the power to create a safe space for our children and be able to guide them through these turbulent times with grace and resilience. This is where intentional conscious parenting comes in.

Intentional conscious parenting is about being present, mindful, and deliberate in our interactions with our kids. It's about fostering an environment of safety, understanding, and open communication. 

Our September’s Intentional Conscious Parenting Tip is about helping our kids navigate the changing world without transferring our fears onto them. 

Supporting Empathic Children: Strategies for Preventing Sensory Overload

 

Raising Empaths: Recharging After Sensory Overload.

Introverts and extroverts see and interact with the world differently. When raising empathic, introverted, or hyper-sensitive children it's important to be attuned to your child's needs and energetic boundaries. 

Remember even extroverted children can become overwhelmed and feel overstimulated too. Some children are more sensitive than others. Adjust your parenting techniques and skills accordingly to your child.

As parents, we strive to understand and support our children's unique traits and needs. One such trait that may require special attention is empathy. Empathic children have an incredible ability to sense and absorb the emotions and energies of those around them. While this sensitivity can be a gift, it can also lead to sensory overload and emotional exhaustion. In this article, we will explore strategies for recharging empathic children after sensory overload, allowing them the space and freedom they need to thrive.

August's Intentional Conscious Parenting Tip: Children's Ideas And Who They Are Matters

As parents, we often find ourselves in the role of guiding and teaching our children, but it's essential to remember that their ideas and who they are as individuals matter. Every child is unique, with their own thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on the world. It's our responsibility to create a safe and nurturing environment where they can express themselves, be heard, and have their ideas validated. 

Creating Healthy Habits: The Key to Balanced Screen-Time

Creating healthy habits when it comes to using electronics is not a one-time task, but a continuous process. It involves setting clear boundaries, establishing routines, and providing guidance. 

Remember, our children learn more from what they see us do than what we tell them to do. So, it's essential that we, as parents, model healthy electronic habits ourselves.