Alison Smith head shot“Parenting doesn’t have to be ‘us versus them’. It can be a win-win.” ~Alison Smith

Alison Smith is a Gentle Parenting Specialist, an educator, entrepreneur and a loving mother. She is passionate about empowering others to “move beyond their personal status quo”.  While Alison was teaching she began to see how kids weren’t being respected, so she went on a search to find a solution. That’s when Alison discovered Gentle Parenting. Shortly after, she realized that becoming a Gentle Parenting Specialist was her calling and the right fit.

What is Gentle Parenting? 

Responsive parenting where adults are meeting their children’s needs and making sure that their needs are also met. Parents guide their children and still set limits while respecting their children’s individual needs.

How Alison felt during the transition from her secure job as a teacher to an entrepreneur:

Alison questioned if she was doing the right thing by walking away from her paid contract. But even with that fear, she knew she had a calling to do something that was the right fit.

Biggest lesson Alison learned during this transition: 

The process of building your business doesn’t have to be an abrupt change. It’s ok to dabble and try different things. Do something on a part-time basis and work your way into full-time self-employment.

Biggest challenges Alison faced while pursuing her passion: 

Alison identified herself as her biggest challenge, with her high standards and her tendency to be impatient that sometimes get in her way. Through her own self work, Alison is learning how to let go of perfectionism and be at peace with letting things unfold the way they’re going to unfold .

How to stay motivated through challenges: 

Surround yourself with supportive people who are already living their dream so you can see yourself in them and realize what’s possible for you.  Continue your self-work and understand that challenges may not go away instantly.

Alison’s Upcoming Projects: 

The creation of parenting guides and quick-tip videos that allow parents to learn helpful strategies without having to read an entire book.

Alison is participating in the Children & Teens Health Summit this fall. You can find more information about this summit at http://childrenshealthsummit.com.

Special Offer to Listeners: 

You are invited to claim a free copy of Alison’s parenting guide: 20 Ways to Connect with Your Child as well as registering to receive weekly tips at www.alisonsmithcoaching.com/subscribe.

As a special bonus, if you mention this interview, you will receive a free copy Alison’s Gentle Parenting Manifesto or a GPS video guide with your purchase of $50 CDN or more!

Where You Can Find Alison Online: 

Website – http://alisonsmithcoaching.com

Facebook: Alison Smith Coaching

Twitter: Smith_Coaching

I hope you enjoyed the strategies, tips and wisdom that Alison shared in this episode. Remember that you’re a great parent and you’re doing the best that you can. There’s always room for you to learn and become better with each step that you take on your journey, but don’t be too hard on yourself.

You can always connect with me here by completing a Contact form or you can email me at Erica@momswithdreams.com.