Positive Teaching and Parenting

Even though I'm not a mom yet, I get so excited for that time in our lives. Being a teacher, I often think about how to "raise" children in my classroom in a supportive and encouraging, yet firm and consistent, environment. I have so much respect for people who are able to find the balance between training in discipline, and understanding/empathizing with the mind of a child. This balance takes tons energy on the front end, when it's tough to be patient and consistent, and even tougher to think quickly and react calmly, yet firmly.

For the past almost ten years (what?!), I've had the opportunity to witness Matt's Nanna (she's my Nanna too ;) ) exhibit this consistent, loving, and firm demeanor with her grandchildren, Matt's youngest cousins. There have been times when I have found myself in the middle of a tricky "parenting" situation with my students or my nephews, wondering, "What would Nanna do?". Honestly! It's sounds a bit ridiculous when I see it written out, but it is 100% true. I love the way she loves and "trains" (which is actually what the word discipline means) her grandchildren.  She is an excellent writer and published author, and has recently started a blog called Colored with a Positive Crayon. Her daughter, Matt's Aunt Jan, is just like Nanna. The grandchildren I'm referring to are her kids. :) Both she and Nanna have a refreshing approach to problem solving and modeling positive, respectful behavior with their kids/grandkids. Jan is also a writer and published author, and also has a great blog called Everyday Learning in Early Childhood. If you are a parent or teacher, you may find some helpful tactics/new philosophies to ponder on either of their sites.

One of Nanna's recent books, Gently into Sleep is a perfect example of her positive approach to raising children. Check it out! Teachers and parents, you might also like a series that I really enjoy by Jane Nelsen Ed.D. (unrelated to our family) called Positive Discipline. They are GREAT!