[Podcast #241] The Parenting Map with Dr. Shefali

Brave Writer Podcast

Parenting is not just about managing behaviors but about building meaningful relationships that help both parents and children grow. Dr. Shefali, New York Times bestselling author of The Conscious Parent and The Parenting Map, proposes an approach that prioritizes connection, embraces playfulness, and redefines success.

In this Brave Writer podcast episode, Dr. Shefali discusses the essence of conscious parenting, focusing on the parent’s mental biases and belief systems rather than the child’s actions.

Dr. Shefali
Dr. Shefali

We explore:

  • the importance of maintaining a playful approach in parenting and education,
  • redefining success based on individual growth,
  • and navigating challenges with empathy.

Dr. Shefali’s insights on self-awareness, the inner child, and the imposter ego are enlightening and transformative.

Tune in to hear more about these valuable parenting strategies and how they can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful journey for both parents and children. Join us as we delve into the wisdom of Dr. Shefali and learn how to nurture the next generation with love and understanding.

Show Notes

Connection Over Control

One of the most transformative ideas we’ve embraced, inspired by Dr. Shefali, is prioritizing connection over control. Traditional parenting often emphasizes control, where parents dictate rules and expect compliance. However, we’ve found that true influence comes from a deep connection with our children. When children feel understood and supported, they are more likely to engage positively and learn from their experiences.

Embracing Playfulness and Curiosity

Children naturally learn and communicate through play. Dr. Shefali highlights the importance of maintaining a playful approach in parenting and education. By joining our children in their playful world, we not only bond with them but also foster their creativity and problem-solving skills. Playfulness should not be seen as a distraction from serious learning but as a fundamental way of understanding the world. Incorporating playful activities in daily routines makes learning enjoyable and effective.

Redefining Success

Dr. Shefali also emphasizes redefining success in parenting. Instead of measuring success by societal standards such as academic achievements, true success lies in the growth and development of our children’s unique abilities and interests. We encourage parents to celebrate small milestones and individual progress rather than comparing their children to others. This approach helps children develop a healthy self-esteem and resilience.

Fostering connection, playfulness, and curiosity in parenting leads to a more fulfilling and joyful journey for both parents and children. By redefining success and navigating challenges with empathy, as inspired by Dr. Shefali’s teachings, we build a strong foundation for our children’s future. Let’s embrace this beautiful adventure together, nurturing the next generation with love and understanding.

Resources

  • Dr. Shefali’s podcast: Parenting and You
  • Dr. Shefali’s website: drshefali.com
  • Go to the Brave Writer Bookshop to buy Dr. Shefali’s book, The Parenting Map
  • Follow Dr. Shefali on Instagram
  • Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
  • Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
  • Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684

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Produced by NOVA Media

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Be Interested

Brave Writer Be Interested

Give your kids the chance to surprise you!

It’s too easy to wave off a child who is excited to show you something when you’re in the middle of something else.

STOP.

Drop what you’re doing to be interested.

Smile, look, say things like:

  • “That’s cool!”
  • “I didn’t know that.”
  • “What else?”

Check your face for patience and openness.

This usually only requires a few minutes of attention, but yields a happier child who feels SEEN. If you don’t see them when they’re eager, they may get your attention by other less enjoyable means.

So be interested in your kids. You have more time in the summer or on break. Practice now while the pressure is off!

This post is originally from Instagram and @juliebravewriter is my account there so come follow along for more conversations like this one!

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Friday Freewrite: Moments of Joy

Friday Freewrite

Today’s freewriting prompt:

Make a list of small moments (like seeing a butterfly land on a flower, hearing a favorite song unexpectedly, or smelling freshly baked cookies) that give you a feeling of joy.

New to Freewriting?

Freewriting is that wonderful key that unlocks the writer within. It’s the vehicle by which we trick our inner selves into divesting the words and ideas that we want to share but are afraid won’t come out right on paper if we do. So, read the prompt above, set the timer for 5-10 minutes then write whatever comes to mind. Just keep the pencil moving!

Need more help? Check out our free online guide.

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[Podcast #240] Struggling with Math? An Interview with Pat Murray of CTC Math

Brave Writer Podcast

There are two major pain points in homeschooling: writing and math.

Our guest today on the Brave Writer podcast helps us with the math part. Pat Murray is the founder of CTC Math, which should sound very familiar to listeners as CTC Math has been an incredible sponsor for many of our episodes.

Pat Murray, CTC Math
Pat Murray, CTC Math

Listening to how Pat has designed his program, why he makes all levels available to subscribers, and the stories he’s accumulated over the years is a real treat. We’re so glad he joined us!

Show Notes

The All-To-Common Math Trajectory of Students

Pat describes to us the all-too-common trajectory of many students. When they are very young, they’re fine with math. Then as they start to get older and learn fundamental skills, they miss something. Maybe they zoned out during a long lesson, maybe they didn’t write it down to help with retention–there are a million reasons. Then as the weeks, months, and years go by, other skills are built on top of that missing skill and things start to fall apart. Instead of slowing down and figuring out the missing skill(s), they get pushed to keep up with where they “should” be. Soon, they just identify themselves as someone who’s not “good at math” and that story is baked in for life.

CTC Math’s Approach

Pat has built CTC Math to specifically prevent and respond to this trajectory. He keeps the video lessons around 5 minutes long, with super clear and concise explanations. He has students immediately do practice questions so they can implement what they just learned. This helps the concept stick, and it provides quick wins for the student. CTC Math’s tests are designed to identify any missing or weak skills, providing a full library of lessons for remediation or moving to the next level with confidence.

Resources

Connect with Julie

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Produced by NOVA Media

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Brave Writer Training Program

Brave Writer Training

AVAILABILITY VARIES

We’ve heard you! 

  • You want to help your child grow their skills in writing, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and reading comprehension.
  • You want them to find joy in literature and writing. 
  • You want to leave behind the strict and ineffective workbooks. 
  • You want something different! 

But you aren’t sure how to get started or how to take the leap into what feels like the unknown. 

We’ve got you! Brave Writer Training (if registration isn’t open, you can get on the waiting list here) is designed to guide you through a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience that will provide you with a strong foundation in the Brave Writer principles and practices used in our programs. 

Why Choose Brave Writer Training?

Brave Writer isn’t just another writing program. It’s a holistic approach that nurtures your child’s creativity and critical thinking skills, making writing a meaningful and integral part of their everyday life. Our mentor-led training program will show you how to foster your child’s writing development through Brave Writer programs.

Here’s what you can expect:

Personalized Learning Experience

Four Dynamic Zoom Meetings: Dive deep into the Brave Writer philosophy with Julie Bogart, our founder, and Dawn Smith, our Director of Publishing. These sessions are tailored to provide you with the essential tools and insights to help your child thrive as a writer and to help you excel as their personal writing coach.

Community and Support

Connect and Collaborate: Engage with a supportive community of coaches and fellow cohort members inside Brave Learner Home. Share experiences, challenges, and wins in a space dedicated to mutual growth and encouragement. You’ll be added to the Brave Learner Home community for four months as part of your training membership.

Practical Resources

Helpful Tips and Tricks: Receive regular emails and audio messages packed with actionable tips and tricks to enhance your child’s writing journey. These insights are designed to be practical and easy to implement, ensuring you are prepared for the writing journey ahead.

Accountability

Group Support: We understand the importance of staying on track. Our mentorship program includes built-in accountability measures to help you maintain a consistent and productive homeschool writing routine and continue to develop your skills as an educator. 

Expert Access

Monthly Open Office Hours: Have burning questions? Get them answered by Dawn Smith, our Director of Publishing. These sessions are a golden opportunity to gain clarity and direction tailored to your children’s specific needs.

Join Our Mentorship Cohort

Training Schedule

Our comprehensive four-month training program kicks off in August and runs through November. This gives you ample time to learn Brave Writer practices and integrate our program into your homeschool while having direct access to coaches and members of the community. The program includes:

  • Four Zoom Meetings with Dawn and Julie
  • Community Discussion inside Brave Learner Home (you will have access!)
  • Regular emails with tips and tricks
  • Accountability
  • Troubleshooting Office Hours each month with Dawn

Join Brave Writer Training and watch your child’s writing skills flourish in ways you never thought possible. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together!

Brave Writer Training

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