About Peaceful Parenting

Peaceful Parenting is a holistic approach to raising children rooted in understanding, empathy, and open communication. Developed by Dr. Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist with expertise in child development, this method has empowered countless families to cultivate harmonious and emotionally healthy home environments.

Dr. Laura Markham, the founder of the Peaceful Parenting approach, received her PhD from Columbia University. One of her most significant contributions to the world of parenting is her emphasis on the emotional connection between parent and child as the foundation for effective guidance. Through her popular website, Aha! Parenting, Dr. Markham provides resources, articles, and courses that assist parents in understanding their child's emotional world and responding in a way that fosters connection and understanding.

Central to the Peaceful Parenting approach are a few key principles:

  • Connection Over Correction: Building strong emotional bonds with your child takes precedence over correcting behavior. A connected child feels understood and is more receptive to guidance.

  • Guidance Instead of Punishment: Rather than punitive measures, Peaceful Parenting uses firm but empathic boundaries, natural consequences, and offers solutions to teach and guide children towards better behavior.

  • Emotional Intelligence: It values emotional awareness and promotes teaching children to recognize, express, and manage their emotions healthily.

  • Mutual Respect: Recognizing children as individuals deserving of respect. This means no shaming, belittling, or punishing out of anger.

The Peaceful Parenting approach doesn't just advocate for a harmonious home environment; it seeks to nurture children’s self-esteem, resilience, and emotional intelligence, equipping them with the tools they need for successful and fulfilling lives. The approach emphasizes that by understanding our own emotions as parents, and by managing them effectively, we can better guide our children in managing theirs.

Michelle was trained and certified by Dr Laura Markham herself. Reach out for a free 20-minute consultation with Michelle to learn more about Peaceful Parenting, and how it can help you overcome your family’s parenting challenges!

What My Clients Are Saying

  • Magda P.

    “Working with Michelle took me out of the chaos. By setting priorities for what to focus on, she helped me transform my relationship with my kids.”

  • Heather D.

    “Michelle has an innate ability to see the root cause of a child's turmoil and reach a solution that helps both the child feel better and the parent do better, without making anyone feel ashamed or judged. Her firm yet gentle approach empowers parents to create a more peaceful relationship with their child and even with themselves. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with her!”

  • Sarah R.

    “Every day felt like an endless battle. Michelle's coaching transformed our home into a haven of understanding and calm. I'm now equipped with tools that not only help my children but also help me manage my own reactions.”

  • Lena S.

    “I was skeptical at first, thinking this approach might be too 'soft.' But the change in my relationship with my son is undeniable. We communicate, understand, and respect each other more than ever. “

  • Mina G.

    “The transition into adolescence was rocky for us. Michelle's Peaceful Parenting approach was a game-changer. My daughter and I are now allies, navigating these tricky years together.”

Schedule a consultation with Michelle