From what I have both observed and experienced, there may be no job in the world more complex, challenging and rewarding than that of being a parent. It also happens to be one of the very few adult responsibilities in this over-regulated world for which no one is required to do any formal preparation or training. It boggles my mind to think about the red tape, classroom and practice time involved in, say, getting a driver’s license, while knowing that something just as difficult (if not more so!), life-changing and with the potential to affect many other lives may be decided by chance with no “follow-up” continuing education required. Somehow we all figure it out as we go based on the tools we have to work with.

The roles we play as parents—by birth or choice—can feel overwhelming at times, especially in turbulent and hectic daily lives. Equal parts cheerleader, disciplinarian, playmate, teacher, nurse, chauffeur and spiritual guide, there seems no end to a parent’s job, even when the kids get older. In this month’s edition, we take a look at how the art and science of parenting may be simplified by slowing down and tuning in. It turns out that mindful practices so applicable to other situations can also have a positive impact on the overall family experience. We examine what it means to parent or be close to children who are highly sensitive, intuitive and/or anxious; these are fairly common conditions these days and parenting styles ought to be adapting to the changing needs of our children.

We also asked some local experts to weigh in on the family dynamics that play out from generation to generation. When it comes to parenting, most of us tend to apply what we learned or observed from our parents and other close relatives, which means we reuse the good, the bad and the ugly. The good news is that it is possible to consciously shift the family programming we inherited along with our genes. We can break patterns we don’t want to repeat; a few local experts provide some ideas.

I hope this August finds you able to enjoy some summer fun with your children or children close to your heart. There is nothing quite like the infectious giggle of a baby or happy young child to bring a responsive smile or chuckle to a nearby adult’s face. And it is so rewarding to have an insightful conversation with a young adult who you could swear just days ago was the baby you heard giggling. In a time when youth and innocence seem lost way too young, my wish for us all is that we have the opportunity to experience the joy and warmth of those feelings at least a few times this month.

With love and light,

Nicole