Want To Change Your Partner’s Parenting?
Have you ever thought, “If only my partner would parent differently, life would be so much easier?”
You’re not alone.
Parenting differences are incredibly common--and incredibly frustrating.
Especially when raising a highly sensitive child.
The good news?
You don’t have to agree on everything to be an amazing team.
Instead of trying to change your partner, try these three strategies to create more harmony:
1️⃣ Get Curious, Not Combative
Instead of reacting with frustration, try asking, “Help me understand what's most important to you in this situation?”
Your partner has a good reason for what they do as a parent.
When we assume good intentions, and seek to understand, we are more likely to get good will and openness in return.
Most parenting comes from a place of deep love. When we understand our partner’s heart and thinking, we are more likely to find areas of common ground.
2️⃣ Appreciate the Balance
Parenting differences can actually benefit children!
Parenting differences can be complementary. Different perspectives makes the family system stronger.
Think of the differences like having different types of tools in a toolbox, rather than having a hammer only.
With diverse tools, you can fix more things than if you only had a hammer.
3️⃣ Lead by Example
The best way to influence your partner’s parenting?
Show, don’t tell.
When one parent can stay calm during a meltdown, or hold a peaceful boundary—the other partner is way more likely to adopt what works.
When children respond positively, your partner will be noticing.
Leading by example is incredibly powerful.
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Would you love to be on the same parenting page with your partner or coparent?
Would you love a more peaceful, connected home? Let’s talk.
Together, I’d love to help you and/or your partner break patterns that aren’t serving you and your family.
Maybe you’d like to be better at staying calm and not losing your temper. Maybe your partner wants to do this.
Maybe you’re fighting with your kids over every little thing. Maybe your preschooler only wants one parent, and you’re not sure how to change this pattern.
Whatever the challenge is, I’d love to help create a more peaceful home for you and your family.
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Have you ever noticed how something as simple as leaving the playground, turning off a tablet, or getting ready for school can spark big resistance—or even a meltdown? For many children, especially those who are highly sensitive or deeply feeling, transitions are some of the hardest moments of the day. It’s not because they’re being “difficult”—it’s because their brains and nervous systems experience change differently. The good news: once you understand why transitions are so challenging, you can respond with empathy and tools that make them easier. Here are 5 common reasons transitions are tough for your child—and what you can do to help. 1. They’re Deeply Engaged in the Moment Highly sensitive kids often immerse themselves fully in what they’re doing—whether that’s reading, building, or playing. Being asked to stop feels like being pulled out of a world they love. How to help: Give gentle warnings before the change. Try: “Five more minutes of play, then it’s time for dinner.” Using a timer or visual countdown can help them prepare. 2. Their Brains Need More Time to Shift Gears Transitions require mental flexibility, which can be harder for sensitive nervous systems. Switching from one activity to another i s like changing lanes on a crowded highway—it takes time. How to help: Use consistent signals to cue transitions, such as a special song, a picture schedule, or a fun countdown routine. 3. Transitions Can Feel Like a Loss of Control Children often feel like transitions are imposed on them. That lack of control can trigger pushback or power struggles. How to help: Offer simple choices so they feel empowered. For example: “Do you want to brush teeth first or change into pajamas first?” 4. They Anticipate Stress in the Next Activity If your child expects the next step to be boring, stressful, or less enjoyable, they may resist leaving the current activity. How to help: Empathize first: “It’s hard to stop playing, I know.” Then, ease the shift with something to look forward to: “Want to bring your toy to the car so it feels easier?” 5. Their Nervous Systems Feel Every Shift More Intensely Highly sensitive kids notice and react to even small changes in environment, energy, and routine. What feels like a tiny shift to you may feel overwhelming to them. How to help: Keep routines predictable when possible. Create comforting rituals—like a goodbye hug, a special handshake, or a silly phrase—that help anchor them during transitions. The Takeaway Transitions are about more than just moving from one activity to another—they involve emotions, expectations, and a sensitive nervous system. With empathy and small adjustments, you can turn transition battles into moments of connection. 💛 Parenting a highly sensitive child isn’t easy—but it’s also filled with opportunities to build trust, closeness, and resilience. If you’d like more guidance on making daily challenges like transitions smoother, I’d love to support you. I offer one-on-one parent coaching tailored to families raising deeply feeling kids. Schedule a free call with me here.
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