Getting Started with Gentle Parenting | Philly Newborn Photography

May 19, 2023

When I became pregnant with my first child, I started a journey that continues to this day. I was on a mission to be the best parent I could be, and not repeat the mistakes my parents made. Fast forward to today, and I am still very much on that journey. I’ve made many strides along the way, along with many mistakes. I am not a perfect parent, nor will I ever be. So my goal rather that striving for perfection, is striving for connection.

I’m sure at this rate you’ve heard at least some of the buzz-words for connection-based parenting: gentle, respectful, attachment, mindful, conscious, etc. I wouldn’t say that I entirely subscribe to one style of parenting, because I think there are wonderful things to learn from a variety of parenting methods. However, I would say that my bent is definitely towards connection-based/authoritative parenting because it makes the most sense for me.

If you are starting your journey to becoming a better parent like me and want to learn more about this connection-based style, then I wanted to pass along some helpful information to get you started. Below are some excellent resources for learning more about gentle/respectful/connection-based parenting, since I am by no means an expert, but have greatly benefited from experts.

1. Janet Lansbury/Unruffled Podcast

She is great for learning more about the why and the theory behind respectful parenting. She was the first expert who I stumbled upon in my parenting-learning journey. From her articles to her podcasts, she has a wealth of knowledge on being a calm, confident leader for your children. You can learn more about her here: https://www.janetlansbury.com/.

2. Dr. Daniel Siegel

If you are looking for an excellent parenting book on discipline, I highly recommend No Drama Discipline. It gives theory and practical ways to parent our children from connection and calm.

3. Dr. Becky/Good Inside Podcast

If you are looking for extremely practical tips and scripts for specific situations, I cannot recommend Dr. Becky enough! She is so helpful in giving answers to specific challenges on her Instagram page and her podcast (called Good Inside).

4. Instagram Influencers: Destini Ann and Big Little Feelings

Ok, influencers get a bad rap, but I promise these two are amazing. They give practical tips and knowledge that are so helpful.

All of these resources have helped me grow in not only being a better parent, but also a better person. I hope this list empowers you to learn more about the wonderful world of connection-based parenting! Good luck!

philly newborn photographer | mom sits in rocking chair holding newborn while dad sits on the arm rest and pet dog sits at the base of the chair.

philly newborn photographer | new parents stand holding newborn while smiling at camera

philly newborn photographer | new mom and dad hold baby up and give him kisses

philly newborn photographer | white nursery with white crib

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby boy sleeping in crib with image shot through the crib rail

philly newborn photographer | new mom holds newborn baby while dad is kissing moms head

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby boy sleeps in moms lap while pet dog kisses him

philly newborn photographer | mom and dad sit in rocking chair with newborn while pet dog is in the foreground looking at the camera

philly newborn photographer | new parents stand holding their newborn while smiling down at him and pet dog is in the corner with tongue sticking out

philly newborn photographer | new parents hold newborn and pet dog while smiling at the camera

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby swaddled sleeping with hand peeking out

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby sleeping on bed with pet dog

philly newborn photographer | new mom reaches into crib to caress newborn baby's head

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby lies on bed while dog kisses his head and mom and dad lie next to him on either side

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby sleeping at the foot of parent's bed

philly newborn photographer | new mom giving newborn baby a kiss

philly newborn photographer | new mom lies on bed with newborn and pet dog

philly newborn photographer | new mom stands while holding newborn on her belly

philly newborn photographer | newborn baby sleeping on dad's chest

philly newborn photographer | new dad smiles while standing holding newborn baby

philly newborn photographer | new dad stands smiling down at newborn baby

philly newborn photographer | mom and dad stand smiling at camera while holding newborn baby

philly newborn photographer | mom and dad face each other while touching heads and holding newborn between them

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