Have you ever heard of PACE parenting? PACE parenting is an acronym (playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, empathy) for a parenting tool that will change the way you interact with children.
If you find yourself struggling to enjoy parenthood or feel unheard by your child, PACE parenting is for you. In this post, we’ll compare pace parenting and gentle parenting. We’ll also cover the main advantages in using pace parenting over different parenting techniques.
What does the PACE in PACE Parenting stand for?
P = Playfulness
A = Acceptance
C = Curiosity
E = Empathy
How to use PACE parenting with toddlers
Using PACE parenting with toddlers can provide a nurturing and supportive framework for their emotional development and overall well-being. PACE parenting focuses on building secure attachments and promoting healthy emotional regulation. Here’s how to apply PACE parenting principles with toddlers:
Playfulness:
- Engage in imaginative play with your toddler. Encourage pretend games, storytelling, and creative activities that allow them to express themselves. Baby M’s (can we still call her Baby M if she’s almost 3?) favorite thing is to finding shapes in clouds. Sometimes we’ll pretend there’s a big storm coming and we need to make a fort to hide. Personally, this is my favorite part of being a parent.
- Use humor and playfulness to diffuse tension and build connections. Turn everyday tasks into games or sing silly songs to make transitions smoother.
- Saying something as simple as “oh you silly goose” or “that’s how a puppy dog eats” when she puts her mouth face-first into her dinner is way more effective than getting frustrated.
- Looking for ways to play outside? Check out our post, “Playing in the Rain with Your Toddler“
Acceptance:
- Show unconditional love and acceptance to your toddler. Let them know that their feelings and behaviors are valid, even if you don’t always agree.
- We are big fans of saying things like “you can feel sad, and we still have to leave Grandma’s house. Sometimes I feel sad when I’m having fun and it’s time to go home.”
- Create a safe space where your toddler feels comfortable expressing their emotions without fear of judgment. Listen attentively and validate their feelings.
Curiosity:
- Be curious about your toddler’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Ask open-ended questions and encourage them to share their perspective. We don’t give toddlers enough credit. At almost 3, my daughter is already saying things like “I feel so upset right now” or “I feel a little bit nervous about the dentist”. In my opinion, some toddlers have more emotional tools than adults!
- Explore their interests and engage in activities that capture their curiosity. Encourage them to explore their surroundings and learn through discovery.
Empathy:
- Tune into your toddler’s emotions and reflect back their feelings. For example, say, “I can see you’re feeling sad because your toy broke.” Help them find the words to describe their feelings. Laying out some crayons and asking them to color their feelings helps too (corny, I know, but it works).
- Offer comfort and support when your toddler is upset. Use gentle touches, soothing words, and physical presence to reassure them. Ask them if they want a hug. If they don’t, let them know you’re there when they’re ready.
I think the most important thing here is consistency. Trust is at the heart of secure attachment and your relationship with your child.
Are PACE parenting and gentle parenting the same thing?
According to Verywell Family, “Gentle parenting is an evidence-based approach to raising happy, confident children. This parenting style is composed of four main elements—empathy, respect, understanding, and boundaries—and focuses on fostering the qualities you want in your child by being compassionate and enforcing consistent boundaries. Unlike some more lenient parenting methods, gentle parenting encourages age-appropriate discipline that teaches valuable life lessons.”
So, PACE parenting falls under the gentle parenting umbrella!
PACE Parenting for Adults
I personally feel like a better mom and human when I’m validating my child’s emotional state. Slowing down and helping her process her own feelings in turn helps me process my own.
I’ve found that through using PACE and gentle parenting techniques, my inner dialogue has become softer and more nurturing. It’s a win-win for everyone!
In the realm of parenting approaches, PACE Parenting shines as a compassionate and effective method for nurturing children’s emotional well-being, particularly those who have experienced trauma or adversity. Through the pillars of Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy, PACE Parenting offers a roadmap for building secure attachments and fostering healing connections.
As you embark on your PACE Parenting journey, may these principles guide you toward building deeper connections and empowering your children to flourish in a world filled with love and support.
Have you ever heard of PACE parenting? Let me know below!
O.
- Surviving Sleep Deprivation as a Stay-at-Home Mom
- 101 Motherhood and Lifestyle Blog Post Ideas
- Making the Most of the Fall Season
- My Favorite Baby Items and My Biggest Regrets
If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!
References:
Leave a Reply