If you're going to try to put this process into a box, it's going to kill you.

There's a managerial sense about it and the idea that parenting is a kind of job. There's a goal and an outcome at the end of the task.

We are focused on every minor thing we do having huge repercussions in our children's lives. It sucks the joy out of mothering.

We have a sense that if we are exceptional parents, we will automatically produce exceptional children. It's unrealistic thinking, and it puts unbearable pressure on the child and the parent.

Things are beginning to shift as we realize this isn't good for kids.

I'm Christian. I've made mistakes. I believe fervently in second chances.