by Gayle Swift | Aug 1, 2018 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, General Discussion, Intentional Parenting
Parenting has an evolutionary endpoint: at some point, our children will leave the family nest and fly out into the world to carve their path in life. Even as we change diapers, read bedtime stories, or tuck them in, we know someday, they’ll be on their own....
by GIFT Coach | Aug 26, 2015 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, General Discussion
In our blogs we focus on the essential need for a Both/And attitude in adoptive families. Both birth and adoptive parents. Both nature and nurture. Each has positives to offer. Each is a permanent and core part of the child. We believe everyone benefits from this...
by GIFT Coach | Aug 12, 2015 | Blogs by Guests, Blogs by Joann DiStefano, General Discussion
Parenting can be very rewarding; it can also bring us to our knees, leaving us overwhelmed, frightened and desperate. Kids with tough starts, trauma histories and strong wills can prove difficult to manage. What parent has not had the frustrating experience of...
by GIFT Coach | Jan 21, 2015 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano
During the previous two weeks, we have explored some techniques for creating connection, injecting playfulness in family life, using meditation and laughter. Sometimes intentional control of one’s body postures and/or laughter meditation will not reset mood. What can...
by GIFT Coach | Jul 16, 2014 | Blogs by Gayle Swift
Adoptees are not broken but they are profoundly influenced by their adoption. Shaped, not defeated, or doomed by it. Being adopted gives rise to unique needs that must be met so adoptees can grow a healthy, confident adult identity. This process requires an...