🌪️ Navigating Olive's Emotional Storms

Navigating Olive's Emotional Storms: Gentle Parenting, Learning, and Evolution

I remember my mother telling me stories about how would fall out in the middle of public places like Malls and Libraries, for little to no reasons. Well to her the reasons were small, but I’m sure to me going left when I wanted to go right was a HUGE DEAL! How did she handle my thrashing outbursts? She says she didn’t! When I fell out she just waited me out. Like a Georgia Thunderstorm, she knew it could only last but so long. Lazy? Genius? No clue. But a this point I’m willing to try anything!

It feels like I've recently been cast in a reality show where the episodes are unpredictable and I definitely don’t have the script. And boy, has my baby Olive been taking center stage.

The Emotional Landscape 🌪️

If our living room walls could talk, they'd recount tales of Olive’s rollercoaster of emotions. From the highs of giggles to the lows of meltdowns, they’ve seen it all. These aren't mere tantrums, but profound expressions of her ever-changing world, especially with baby sis and extended family in the picture.

A Trip Down Memory Lane 🛤️

Looking back, many of us were raised in the "children should be seen and not heard" era. There was little room for expression, and the word 'no' often came without explanation. But times have changed, and with it, our understanding of a child’s needs.

The Gentle Parenting Revolution 🌱

This method might sound new-age, but it’s backed by years of research and successful applications. It’s not about leniency, but about understanding. It's recognizing that our little ones are navigating a complex world of emotions they're yet to understand. And our role? To be their guide, their anchor.

On My Bookshelf & Playlist 📚🎧

Reading: “The Whole-Brain Child” remains at the top of my list. But another gem I've discovered is “No-Drama Discipline.” It’s given me a fresh perspective on setting limits without stifling.

Listening: Alongside "Unruffled", I've found solace in “Respectful Parenting: Janet Lansbury Unruffled.” It’s a deep dive into addressing the usual and sometimes unusual challenges of parenting.

The World Through your Toddlers Eyes 👀

Here’s what’s helping me get through and even empathise. Imagine seeing a rainbow for the first time, or feeling rain on your face. Imaging wrestling with a new emotion for the first time? What is Jealousy? Embarrassment? Fear? Now imagine not have the word, vocabulary or emotional maturity to express what you’re feeling.

Children experience an array of firsts, and each emotion attached is amplified. Olive's reactions, your toddlers, whether it's joy at a butterfly or distress over a changed routine, are their way of processing these firsts. I cant even imagine how hard that is

Bridging Generations 🌉

Every generation believes they’re doing right by their children. But as we evolve, we learn. We understand that emotions aren’t to be suppressed, but guided. How that’s supposed to happen, whats enough support, too much, is all up for debate. One minute they’re telling us not to hold your children too much, not to spoil them. Now there’s no such thing.

I don’t know if there is a right answer, but i know we as parents are constantly learning and improving. So It's not about erasing our past, but learning from it.

Balancing Acts: Feelings & Boundaries 🎭

Allowing feelings doesn’t equate to an absence of boundaries. It’s a delicate act. It means acknowledging your toddlers emotions while helping them understand the 'whys' behind our rules.

A Call to The Village 🗣️

How are you all managing this intricate dance? I’m all ears for tips, advice, or even just a good ol' parenting tale. Let's make this journey collaborative.

Villagers, here’s to navigating the unpredictable tides of parenting. There’s a lesson hidden in every splash, a story behind every wave.

Sending strength, patience, and lots of coffee your way,

CPO - Andrew

P.S. Keep the stories coming. They’re not just anecdotes; they’re lifelines for another parent out there. 💌

Hey Parents! If you’re in need of some extra help around the house… If you’re losing yourself in laundry or boxes long overdue to be unpacked.. or if you can no longer see the back of your refrigerator, closet, or pantry… Our parent company, Village, provides on-demand assistance so you can focus on the things that are most important. Click the link to find out more! 😀

Dad Joke

Q: Why did the bicycle fall over?

A: Because it was Two Tired!