From Inner Critic to Ally: Transforming Parenting Through Self-Compassion
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

From Inner Critic to Ally: Transforming Parenting Through Self-Compassion

Do you ever feel like your well-meaning parenting advice lands as judgment or shame for your child? The truth is, our own inner critical voices often shape how we respond to our kids—especially in stressful moments. In this post, I explore how to identify and work with your inner critic to create space for self-compassion, regulate your reactions, and strengthen your connection with your child. Discover how small shifts in your inner dialogue can lead to big changes in your parenting. Healing yourself is the greatest gift you can give your family.

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“Walking on Eggshells” around your kids? Here’s how a Breakfast Tantrum Became a Moment of Trust, Collaboration, and Connection 
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

“Walking on Eggshells” around your kids? Here’s how a Breakfast Tantrum Became a Moment of Trust, Collaboration, and Connection 

Parenting is delicate balance. Especially when you're tired, stressed, and out of bandwidth. In this post, I share how I turned an almost-meltdown with my 2.5-year-old into a moment of trust and connection without sacrificing my own boundaries.

By shifting focus from the immediate problem (a cracked egg!) to my child’s deeper need for inclusion and connection, I avoided a power struggle and strengthened our relationship. This story highlights how non-coercive parenting builds emotional safety and trust, even when life’s demands make it tough to say yes.

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Changing the Rhythm: Staying Connected to Your Partner While Parenting
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

Changing the Rhythm: Staying Connected to Your Partner While Parenting

Staying connected with your partner while juggling the demands of parenting can be challenging, often leading to cycles of conflict and disconnection. This post explores simple yet powerful strategies—like deep listening and naming patterns—that can help break these cycles. Learn how small shifts can foster empathy, reduce defensiveness, and create a stronger, more resilient bond, even amidst the chaos of raising young people.

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The Difference Between Dissociated Parenting and Present Parenting
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

The Difference Between Dissociated Parenting and Present Parenting

In parenting, the pressure to stay calm and composed can sometimes push us into "auto-pilot" mode, where we disconnect from our feelings to avoid reacting explosively. But what if true connection comes from embracing our imperfections and learning to be authentically present? This post explores the difference between disassociated and present parenting, and how radical acceptance of our humanity fosters a healthier, more connected family dynamic.

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The Power of Play: Why Playing with Your Kids Matters
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

The Power of Play: Why Playing with Your Kids Matters

Imagine this: Your child is inviting you into their world, a place where they can be anyone and do anything, where laughter flows freely, and time doesn’t seem to exist. This world may feel foreign, but it’s also full of opportunity. The magic of play goes far beyond keeping a child entertained; it’s a doorway to connection, growth, and healing—for both children and parents alike. Here, we’ll explore the many reasons why embracing play is so important and how it can enrich your relationship with your child in unexpected ways.

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A Paradigm Shift: Away from Coercion and Towards Connection
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

A Paradigm Shift: Away from Coercion and Towards Connection

Revolutionizing parenting is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but rather a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation for both parents and children alike. It requires courage, vulnerability, and a willingness to challenge deeply ingrained societal norms and beliefs.

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Navigating Trauma and Triggers as Parents: A Journey of Growth and Healing
Cara Tedstone Cara Tedstone

Navigating Trauma and Triggers as Parents: A Journey of Growth and Healing

Acknowledging our triggers and emotions is another essential aspect of navigating parenthood. I've learned that it's okay to feel triggered and to experience a range of emotions, but what's important is how we choose to respond to them. By taking the time to identify the root causes of our emotions and empathizing with our children's experiences, we can create deeper connections and foster a sense of understanding and compassion within our families.

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