Lori Petro Interview: Starting Small With Mindful Parenting

Eric: That's lovely, and I suspect a lot of people will get something out of it. Looking back at those three points you laid out, about what our kids are actually experiencing and why they act the way they do, breaking it down that way makes the whole thing feel more manageable. It gives us a way in. Before we finish up, is there anything else on your mind, something we didn't touch on, any last thought you'd like to leave people with?

Lori: Not really. We could keep talking for hours if we wanted to go deeper, but with parents I think the right move is to begin small. Hand them one thing they can actually use, and we've offered a few already, mindfulness being one. The trap is this: once you set out to fix everything, you start believing you have to fix everything. What I want people to understand is that so much of it comes down to stepping back, doing a little bit to care for yourself, and then settling enough that those perceptions can come through. Small pieces, small amounts. And no judgment.

Eric: Perfect. Thank you again, truly. This has been Lori Petro with us at A Psychology of the Future, and thanks as well for helping spread word of the event to your community. We're excited for people to discover your work and what the other presenters are bringing to the conference. We'll reconnect after this call to touch base.

Lori: You've lined up wonderful speakers, so sharing it is easy. Thank you, Eric.

Eric: Thank you so much.

Lori: Thank you.