A Simple Mantra for you...

I have a simple message for today.

It's one I learned from my mentor early on and over the years it has become a powerful mantra. This short but simple statement is not only backed by decades of research about what's best for our children, it's also beautiful in it's simplicity.

When those worry thoughts get the best of us...

When we're anxious because our child's behavior isn't on track for success..

When we're at a loss...

...just remembering this simple statement can bring us back to what's most important. And wouldn't you know it, decades of research tell us this is the very way our child thrives!

Let's breath and say it together-

It's not about perfection, it's about connection.

I turn to this again and again.

When I'm checking in about homework, tests and grades ...monitoring cell phone use and screen time ...helping with after school activities ...navigating peer relationships

I know it doesn't have to be perfect.

And anyway, our child's development isn't one straight shot. Our child's growth is up and down, back and forth. Lots of regression and lots of advances, neither happening in any sort of logical or consistent timeline.

So instead of worry, let's choose connection.

Instead of fear, let's choose love.

It's not about perfection, it's about connection.

I hope today you feel as supported by this as I do.

With so much love,

Vanessa

*Quote from Ruth Beaglehole, former director of The Center for Nonviolent Parent Education.