Parent Support, Education, & Coaching
After years of struggling to become a mom, a twin pregnancy left me unable to walk for a while once the kids were born. Thankfully, my background in education and psychology helped me reframe things, accept that challenges would always be a part of parenting, and find my way back to the simple joy of being a mom...no matter what.
Since then, I've combined over 30 years of teaching and working with hundreds of families* with my own experiences as a mom, and created a framework to help other thoughtful parents find that same joy. The S.C.U.B.A. Approach helps parents see "bad" behaviors as a way to communicate needs. This deep dive approach helps parents figure out what's going on, connect with their child, and find ways to make gentle parenting techniques actually work for their family.
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*I am affirming of all loving families, gay, straight, queer, single, poly, etc. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and I am an unapologetic supporter and ally.
Ready to learn more? Sign up for a free "Struggles to Cuddles" strategy session and find out how you can move from struggles to cuddles!
Nice to Meet You
Kristene has 30+ years of experience teaching, a Master’s degree in education, and specialized training in early intervention, psychology, and mindfulness. She brings this and more to the table, standing by your side to tailor advice to learn how gentle parenting techniques can work for your unique family.
A parent educator/coach, public speaker, and early intervention specialist, above all else Kristene is a very proud mama who loves hanging out with her teenage twins. She combines training in psychology, education, and mindfulness with expertise from high-profile figures in neuroscience and parenting. Kristene developed the S.C.U.B.A. method out of a desire to create a simple, easy-to-remember, evidence-based approach to boost parents’ compassion, connection, and confidence. Author of four books (and counting), she's recognized by prestigious publications such as The Wall Street Journal and Huffington Post.
Testimonials
Publications
The S.C.U.B.A. Approach: Dive Deep Into Your Child's
From toddlers hitting to teens slamming doors, parents struggle to handle the rollercoaster ride as our little ones inevitably grow up. But each behavior is just the tip of the iceberg. The S.C.U.B.A. Approach helps you look beneath the surface, to See the Child Under the Behavior, and Adapt.
Cuddle Meditation: How to Build Self-Soothing Skills with Snuggles (Family Mindfulness)
If you are a parent or work with young children, you know how quickly they can go from calm calamity! As frustrating as this can be for the adults in their life, there are reasons why our little ones have such a hard time with their big feelings.
The Magic of Chores: How to Build Brains, Self-Worth, and Connection in Your Child
One of the biggest headaches for a lot of parents is getting their kids to help out. But chores don't have to be...well, a chore! In fact, they can be a way to increase family harmony, give your child a sense of inner pride, and even help with schoolwork. In this book, you'll learn:
What "executive functions" are and how they impact chores
Why chores help develop a deep sense of self-worth and dignity
How chores can build relationships and strengthen family bonds
How to choose chores that developmentally match your child
How to structure chores to support your child as they gain new skills
You'll also learn how to reframe chores for yourself, and see just how much it benefits you and your family each and every day.
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