If you read one parenting book this summer, make it The Power of Showing Up by Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. & Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D. These experienced professionals and parents have pared parenting down to the most necessary components and given some really effective practical steps to “show up” for our children. According to their research, children who grow up to be happy, successful adults have at least one adult in their lives who consistently supports them.
The Four S’s
Dr. Siegel and Dr. Bryson stress the importance of showing up for our children; not chasing perfection but being truly present for them. They introduce and explain the Four S’s in parenting including making the children feel 1) safe, 2) seen, 3) soothed & 4) secure. They delve into specific examples and provide strategies for parents who may not have had a secure upbringing. The authors present research that discusses attachment science and the ways parents may respond based on their own experiences growing up. The reassurance and guidance provided for meeting your children’s needs are invaluable.
Biggest Takeaway
My biggest takeaway from this wonderful book is that we, as parents, do not have to be perfect and we all have the capability to provide a secure foundation for our children, regardless of our own upbringing. The authors’ philosophy of prioritizing connecting with our children while providing straightforward suggestions for addressing our own parenting responses are neatly sewn together in this effective book.
“Showing up” is such a simple concept that can be overshadowed by all of our other priorities. Dr. Siegel and Dr. Bryson do an amazing job of bringing it back to the basics and providing straightforward strategies for making it central in our mission to raise our amazing littles.
Find The Power of Showing Up at your local library, local bookstore or Amazon.
See the GLP Blog post for ideas for Connecting with Your Extraordinary Little.