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I have been going through the Transformational Parenting Process offered by the Jai Institute and I am going to be sharing my experience and some of the amazing information I am learning. This will be a three-part series as I complete the 12-week-long process.
My friend from college recently became a parenting coach. She has three kids and ten years of teaching experience, so when she asked me about participating I was curious about the program as I trusted that it would be high quality if she was choosing to coach other parents through it. There are a number of options that can be helpful to any parent out there, so I encourage any parent to check out her site and the services she offers. Especially if you feel you could be more connected to your children, check out Joyfully Connected Parenting to learn more!
Reasons to Participate in the Transformational Parenting Process:
1. It is science-based
If you have read some of my other posts, you may have realized that I love finding information that is supported by research. That is one of the things I love about this process. The information is well supported by research and brain science.
From the Jai Institute Website:
The specific tools and strategies that we do teach are grounded in the foundations of Non-Violent Communication, Emotional Intelligence, and the Neuroplasticity-work of Dr. Bruce Lipton.
Our work is rooted in Attachment Science—understanding the way we were parented as children and how it defines our relational context—meaning our ability to connect vulnerably and authentically with anyone outside of ourselves as adults, and specifically as it relates to our own children.
2. It is non-judgmental
Another thing that I love is that it is not about judgment. Too often as mothers, we feel judged for not being "perfect" or doing things the "right" way. This program leaves space for our humanity and imperfections. I personally want to be able to work on improving my parenting without feeling like a failure, and this process allows that.
In fact, I am just finishing up week 4 and this quote from the lesson this week spoke to me:
"It is not all or nothing.
We cannot hold ourselves to the expectation that we will show up perfectly, one hundred percent of the time. We will each do our best to show up as often as we can with presence, perseverance, and purpose. We will believe that when we can show up, it matters!"
3. Coaches are thoroughly trained
The coaches go through a seven-month process, which includes going through the twelve-week process and doing the work for their own families. I believe this is so important because they know from personal experience how to make the process work and they can relate to the parenting challenges many of us face on a daily basis.
4. The process focuses on the parents
This is a very parent-focused process. A parent cannot change a child's behavior without changing their own. Throughout the process, you get to reflect on your parenting style and beliefs, and why you have that style/belief system (generally from your own childhood). As you reflect, you are provided with information and strategies to help you adjust to a more empowering parenting style.
5. It is never too early or too late to begin this process
No matter where you are in your parenting journey or how old your children are, this process can be helpful. Children build their attachment with caregivers as infants, but no matter the age of your child, you can work on improving your relationship and work on reconnecting with them.
6. It is a personalized process
During the 12-week process, you watch a weekly video and do a weekly workbook assignment. It is focused on you and your experience. Then each week you meet with your parent coach and because you are meeting with a trained coach each week, this process and the conversations you have is completely personalized to you, your parenting, your personal experiences, your kids, and your family. This is part of what makes the process so powerful and effective.
7. Support
Throughout the process, your coach is there to offer support. You get the opportunity to discuss your parenting challenges and celebrations. The coaching offers an opportunity to talk with another parent (who is also trained to help!) and be offered support in a non-judgemental way.
If you are not ready to commit to a 12-week program, that is okay. There are other options available. If you are interested in improving your parenting style and/or improving your connection with your children, check out Joyfully Connected Parenting.
Remember Mama, you are doing a great job! You got this!
https://www.joyfullyconnectedparenting.com/
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