Tina

Tina's Thoughts on Gentle Mothering

It means not taking the easy, frustrated way out and using physical force when my children need guidance and correction. It means knowing my child intimately and responding to the needs they exhibit, both verbally and nonverbally, in a loving patient caring manner that makes them feel safe and nurtured. It means looking to God, my husband,and other mothers who have been called to this form of parenting for support, guidance, and love when it isn't easy to be what we have been called to be. It means raising children who are not just obedient, but sensitive to their needs and the needs of others, and meeting those needs. It also means raising children who are children, not little adults, and who can think for themselves.

Why do you feel that gentle mothering is so important?

It is important because, we live in a world that is literally going to hell.Many of the children of today know only harshness and brutality. It is a cruel world at times and our children must come from a base of love, compassion and understanding in order to keep their self esteem in a world that tears it apart. They have to know it can be better before they can make it better. If they come from an upbringing where they are respected and loved, they will know how to show these qualities to others as second nature and not respond in kind when other seek to bring them down. God is the one with the vengeance not us. We are not called to be anything but gentle reproofers of our children. The world is cold and cruel at times we must teach them it doesn't have to be.

Why do you feel that God wants you to parent this way?

Because it know in my heart what my own children respond to. It is not physical threats or punishment, it is praise and gentle guidance. I limit their choices to the right ones and they learn what is expected of them better. I always felt unconditional love from my mother and I want that for my kids. I have my own instincts as to what my kids needs are and everytime I have gone against them and done what other or "the experts" have said I have regretted it. I know my kids, every inch of them I stay at home because I want to. God gave me children that need their mommy and I am fortunate enough to have a husband who is willing to provide that. God makes no mistakes, and my kids were meant for a stay at home mom who respects their individuality and needs both day and night( my 2 year old just started sleeping through the night, and I miss getting up with him).

Tina's Testimony