A provocative and insightful perspective on the way we develop our parenting skills including insights of historical and societal pressures. Before being parents, we have little idea of the responsibility, commitment and perseverance that are required. Some of the theories on parenting, and in particular mothering, have dramatic social consequences for us in the Western world. 

Mothers are constantly observed, monitored and evaluated as they are held accountable for their younger children’s performance. Fathers are held to account for their children’s outcomes in terms of educational achievements, achieving professional success and maintaining a healthy loving relationship. What happens when we go against social norms and what’s acceptable for the general public? 

In this session, we will identify some of the “shoulds and oughts” that we hold to be true about parenting. In this way, we understand how we contribute to maintaining impossible standards and the effects that they can have on our lives, especially and even more for those of us who have children considered different, such as issues with gender identity, ADD, ASD, physical disabilities, etc. How can we build on our confidence as parents to support our children the best way we can?""