In this episode you'll get to listen in on a conversation I had with Rachel Rainbolt from Sage Parenting. Rachel is a coach, writer, podcaster, and advocate of all things gentle parenting, natural homeschooling, and simple living.

We know you'll get a lot out of this conversation with two mommas who don't always get it right, who sometimes lose their cools or get overwhelmed, but always try to do what's best for their ever-changing children and families.

[4:13] Find the overlap between your child's needs and your concerns and collaborate with them to find a solution that addresses both.

[5:02] Example of overlap.

[6:30] "It feels really great to treat children like actual human beings, deserving of respect, and honoring our own needs and feelings in the process."

[6:59] Some mistakenly believe this only works for older kids.

[8:18] Sometimes we have unrealistic expectations or have this "template" we try to use. We need to keep our expectations aligned with each unique, individual child.

[10:48] Have grace for yourself...we're not all born as great parents. It takes effort and work.

[11:23] Narrate out loud what's going through your head.

[11:36] We all lose it sometimes. Model what it looks like to ask forgiveness and make repairs.

[13:55] Get yourself out of that fight, flight, or freeze response so you can think and respond instead of reacting.

[14:48] Rachel's approach to homeschooling.

[16:17] Started out in public school, but it didn't feel right.

[18:27] This is how children naturally learn and develop.

[22:16] When you hold space for your child's preferences & desires, they'll do the same for you.

[25:09] Some parents need a little more structure around their child's education, and that's ok. Find a balance.

[26:52] Relax on the timelines of what they're supposed to learn. don't need to push things so early.

[31:30] Rachel's approach with screens at home.

[32:52] Don't fear technology. Screens are like a tool or part of the environment.

[37:38] We're all unique, and you have to do what works best for your family.

[40:59] What is the bucket system?

[45:02] Rachel's approach to minimalism and simple living.

[45:32] We all need to simplify our lives to give us space to work on the things that are most meaningful.

[47:28] Involve your children in conversations about finances.

[50:13] You can bring your kids into money conversations without adding the burdensome or stressful elements of your financial situation.

[53:39] Many necessary life skills aren't learned in school.

[58:17] Keep a list of things that each child wants. As holidays or birthdays approach, revisit the list and ask if there's anything they no longer want.

[58:43] Give things away to other families/children and allow your children to see the positive effect it has on that family.

If you make it a priority to discover and honor your child's preferences & desires, you'll find that they'll do the same for you and it will completely change the dynamics of your family!

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Links & resources mentioned:

• Rachel's website, Sage Parenting
• @SageParenting on IG
• Free to Learn by Peter Gray
• The Opposite Of Spoiled by Ron Lieber

Show Notes: https://www.theparentingjunkie.com/47