Gentle parenting has gained popularity in recent years, but many people misunderstand what it really involves. Some think it means never raising your voice, letting children do whatever they want, or always being perfectly calm and patient. These ideas create confusion and unrealistic expectations for parents trying to connect with their children in a positive way. Let's explore what gentle parenting is not and explain the true principles behind this approach. By understandin

Every cry holds meaning. Through the lens of Infant Mental Health, crying is not misbehavior—it’s communication. Understanding what your baby’s behavior is really saying can restore peace, connection, and confidence in your home. Why Babies Cry and How to Soothe a Crying Baby Every parent has known that moment when the crying just won’t stop. You’ve changed the diaper, offered the bottle, checked for fever, and rocked until your arms ache, yet the sound continues. It fills th

If your five-year-old has started to tell little fibs, stretch the truth, or insist they didn’t do something you just saw them do, take a moment to breathe deeply. You are not alone in this journey, and rest assured, your child is not broken. It’s important to remember that lying in childhood is not a sign of something being wrong; rather, it’s a sign of growth and development. When we approach this behavior with curiosity instead of fear, we can see that lying is simply anot

It can be confusing and even heartbreaking when a toddler refuses comfort when they are upset. As a parent or caregiver, it is natural to want to swoop in with hugs and soothing words, only to have your child push you away. Understanding why this happens can help you respond with compassion and support their emotional growth. Developmental Stage's Effect on Being Upset Toddlers are at a stage where independence and self-expression are central to their development. According t

Childhood is full of contradictions: joy and frustration, wonder and overwhelm, curiosity and chaos. For adults, it can be confusing to make sense of it all, especially when a child’s behavior feels defiant, aggressive, or unpredictable. But beneath every challenging behavior there is meaning. What looks like “bad” behavior is often a signal, a clue to what a child is trying to communicate when they don’t yet have the words. At Haven Family Consulting, I believe children are