Parenthood is a massive life change and a massive personal growth journey. Kathleen shares with us today her view on this major life change that led her to write “Navigating the Shock of Parenthood” and how we can improve how we care for parents.
What We Talked About
- The massive shock and personal growth parenthood brings on
- How Finland can be described as a utopian society for families
- How we need to let go of the “Motherhood Mystique”
- The shock of parenthood is for everyone, not just mothers
- How her husband had to put his foot down at work to have a work-life balance
- Getting help, especially in the early years
- The negative effects the US Educational System is having on our children
- Her IVF journey and what she recommends to others on that journey
Things to Remember
“Growth and change come with losses and pain, and that’s okay.”
“Allow children to be children for a longer period of time.”
“The most intense years don’t go on forever.”
“Do not be afraid of needing support and try to get it any way you can.”
“Children are born with this intense desire to learn and grow. It is within them”
“It enriches our lives if we can connect with other parents and create our village.”
– Kathleen Cawley
Additional Resources
Kathleen Cawley’s Book: Navigating the SHOCK of Parenthood
Mid-Peninsula Parents of Multiples
The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedman
Co-working spaces with childcare in San Diego:
Let’s Continue the conversation…
Now, Kathleen and I want to know from you!
Were you in a state of shock when you became a parent? Listen in to find out why that might be.
Leave a comment below and let us know, you’ll also be helping others to know what is possible.
Remember The Art of Parenting was created for you, if you have any suggestions for experts I should have on the show or parenting questions you want to be answered please let me know here.
More About My Guest
Kathleen Cawley is a physician assistant with eighteen years of primary care experience. She is the mother of twins conceived through IVF, and an avid researcher of social and cultural changes.
In her many years caring for patients, Kathleen was given a glimpse into people’s private lives. They shared with her their joys and sorrows. With these shared intimacies in her heart, Kathleen writes about families, parents, and parenting while recognizing the powerful forces buffeting a family’s life. With compassion and humor, she brings all these experiences and insights to bear in her new guide to Navigating the Shock of Parenthood.
- Website: Kathleen Cawley
- Facebook: The Shock of Parenthood
- LinkedIn: Kathleen Cawley
1 thought on “The Shock of Parenthood. With Kathleen Cawley”
Well said! I enjoyed the lively discussion. Maybe we all should remember to be both strong and soft at the same time, knowing our limits and extend them simultaneously.