Shape

On this 30th anniversary year of Nurturings, the co-founders share about our organization’s history and impact on the wider culture

I remember when the first edition of the book, Attached at the Heart, was released in 2009 – Nurturings’ 15th anniversary since its founding by the book’s coauthors, Barbara Nicholson and Lysa Parker.

I have stood beside a screaming toddler while bouncing a crying baby in a checkout line at the store. I am satisfied with my parenting approach, yet I admit that some part of me does care about the opinions of others.

What helps you when parenting in public?

It's important for me to help my children develop empathy. I believe it makes for a more peaceful home.

How do you help your child learn empathy during moments of stress?

My nighttime routine begins when my kids go to bed and I can get time to myself.

Which of your routines brings you the most balance right now?

My toddler daughter has recently started pulling my hair. I’ve read a lot of online discussions about parents using timeout to discipline their children, but I’ve also read about time-in.

What moments during your day do you use time-in in how you guide your child's behavior?

Sometimes I struggle when my child is angry or having a tantrum in public or won't go to bed when I am exhausted and frustrated.

What helps you to stay calm and able to respond sensitively to your child in a moment of frustration?

One year, two years, five years, 10 years...just what is the ideal spacing between siblings?

Sibling spacing and birth order aside, the most influence on whether our children form close relationships with one another is how we parent.

My toddler, Jacob, is now 2 years and 2 months old. He breastfeeds several times a day, especially at naptime or at night.

If you breastfed, how did weaning go for you? What do you feel when you find yourself looking back on breastfeeding? What do you enjoy about your relationship with your child now?

In front of the wood-burning stove, well into winter, we began our typical summer vacation daydreaming. We settled at last on a cross-country road trip to see family.

What car ride activities do you offer your children?