By our Family Therapy and Parent Coaching Team
“If only there was a universal rule book I could follow!” So often we hear this wish from parents.
Expecting the Unexpected
Parenting is such hard work – no matter how carefully one prepares. Books or articles have been read and thoughtfully incorporated with sage advice from those we love or admire. And then the unexpected happens – such as coronavirus. The challenges that arise are often not the ones we anticipated for the parenting journey.
Considering Parent Coaching
It’s at times like this that parent coaching can be a practical and helpful tool. Parents begin coaching with us for many unexpected reasons. It may be a desire to understand and work with a child’s developmental changes or behaviors. It may be because parents want to improve their relationship with their children or teens. Sometimes, the parents simply want to have the input of a trained, experienced professional for support during a confusing or difficult period – such as this time at home.
Modeling the Ability to Ask for Support
For some parents, the thought of coming for support is accompanied with the fear of being labeled a “bad parent.” Some parents share that it goes beyond that for them; they acknowledge a sense of shame for wanting or needing support. Although these thoughts and fears may arise, know that it is okay to receive support.
In fact, the capacity to ask for help is something that we seek to encourage in our children. To practice seeking help and support builds our capacity. Knowing that it is okay to ask for help – and not only to ask, but to accept and receive.
If this speaks to you, we encourage you to take that first step. In the words of Lao Tzu , “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
Contact Us
To learn more, contact us at 626-585-8075, ext. 108 or PHoward@IFGD.care.