Breaking the Myths of Parenthood: Overcoming Stigma & Embracing Your Own Path
The truth is, most of us didn’t come up with this impossible standard on our own. We inherited it. The idea of what makes a “good parent” has been shaped over time—by history, culture, economics, and, more recently, social media. It’s worth asking: Where did this pressure come from? And do we actually want to keep carrying it? Even more importantly, the pursuit of perfection in parenting isn’t just exhausting for parents—it’s also ineffective and, in many cases, harmful to children. Studies have shown that children raised under perfectionist parenting styles experience increased anxiety, reduced self-esteem, and struggle with autonomy. When parents aim for an unrealistic ideal, it creates pressure that can make children feel like their worth is based on performance rather than who they are. Instead of fostering resilience, connection, and confidence, perfectionist parenting often results in the opposite: fear of failure, stress, and a lack of emotional security.
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- By Brittany Maalona
Capacity in Parenthood
Explore the concept of tolerance in early parenthood—not as endurance through gritted teeth, but as the gentle capacity to stay present with discomfort without judgment or urgency to fix it. Postpartum challenges—like exhaustion, identity shifts, and emotional upheaval—are opportunities to build this capacity over time. Learn the term matrescence, the profound transformation into motherhood, likening it to adolescence in its intensity and disorientation. Understanding matrescence helps parents meet themselves with compassion rather than pressure to return to "normal." Feelings of overwhelm, grief, and ambivalence, affirming that having mixed emotions does not mean you're failing—it means you're human.
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- By Brittany Maalona
Come as You Are: Discussion Circle Series Starting 7/9/25
Each session blends structured content and open discussion, offering a balance of mindfulness, expert guidance, and peer support to meet the evolving needs of early parenthood. Connect with other parents navigating a similar journey Start Date: July 9 (through June 25) Biweekly on Wednesdays, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Workshop Highlights : - Gentle mindfulness practices - Relatable discussion topics - Connect through shared experience Closed cohort: the same group of parents will meet each week
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- By Brittany Maalona
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