Sense and Sensibility in Parenting

In raising 10 kids—including a set of fraternal and a set of identical twins—Lynda Satre has learned a thing or two along the way. She is a former pediatric RN, who has experienced having children in her 20s, 30s and 40s. For the past five years, she has transformed families through her local parenting classes, and has a new book, Parenting Sensibly: Turning Messes Into Successes. Her mission is to help others by sharing wisdom acquired while navigating this imperfect, but wonderful parenting journey. You can connect with Lynda on www.parentingsensibly.com.

Lynda recently shared her thoughts with me on raising kids and being a mom. For a chance to win a paperback copy of Parenting Sensibly, comment on Lynda’s interview blog between now and May 11. (Only those with a U.S. address will be eligible for the giveaway.)

Why did you write Parenting Sensibly?
Lynda: When I started my parenting journey, I was struggling with a lot of baggage from my childhood. I wanted to be a good parent, but I wasn’t sure what to do. How could I make sure my kids felt love, not fear and resentment? How could I discipline without yelling or spanking? How could I maintain a good relationship while guiding them to be self-sufficient? This became my mission in life, to figure out how to parent well through the ups and downs.

Along the way I learned key concepts and strategies that have been immensely helpful, like learning how to respond, not react. Not only have these concepts completely altered my family’s trajectory, but they have been transformational for so many other families as well. Parenting Sensibly is packed with these nuggets. It’s the book I wish would have been available to me when I started my parenting journey.

What are a few of the top concerns related to raising children parents talk to you about?
Lynda: Many parents struggle with guilt from getting angry and yelling. Also, parents are exasperated when their kids don’t obey or respond.