Do You Have a Kid Who's a Non-Conformist?

They seem to travel to the beat of a different drummer -- or be zigging when every one else is zagging.

When you're faced with challenges that seem unique to non-conformist children, it can have you question if you're doing the right thing, or where you went wrong.

Despite these difficulties, it's essential to remember the incredible opportunities and strengths that come with raising a non-conformist child. They often possess creativity, innovation, and the ability to see the world from unique perspectives.

Being a parent of a non-conformist child (or different thinker, as I like to call them)can be challenging. And, as a parent, you have concerns about your kid not being "successful" according to the norms.

And this is what I have to say about that:

When anyone asks how my "kids" (in quotes because they are grown) are doing, my standard answer is "Within normal limits. But my box is big and my lines are squiggly."

It seems that the more some are championing the rights of people to be "different", the smaller our boxes get. Our definitions of "different" are circumscribed.

Especially in education, the markers are clear and seem to be set in stone - the process is not considered, only the final product. An "A" is good, "B" may be acceptable. "C" is average (OMG! not average! - one of the worst things you can tell a parent is that their child is average). Nothing else will do. "D's or "F's" - Oh the horror!

Here's the thing. Grades don't measure creativity, sensitivity, resiliency, motivation, curiosity, personality, humor, enthusiasm, self-awareness, empathy, compassion, leadership, resourcefulness, and a host of other qualities needed to excel in life.

You cannot look at someone and tell how old they were when they first walked. Nor can you tell what grade they got on any test they took in elementary school. An electrician doesn't need the same skills as a CPA.

In order to build confidence and self-esteem in our children, we need to stop shining the spotlight on what's "wrong" and celebrate their accomplishments. Step back and let your kids assets shine. Embrace each child's individuality, provide a nurturing environment, and seek out resources and communities that can offer guidance and understanding.

Just as there's no one-size-fits-all in parenting, there's no one-size-fits-all in addressing the difficulties of raising a non-conformist child. Each family's journey is unique, and my role is to empower parents to find the best path for their child's growth and development.

Let's hear it for the kids who color outside the box.

And, as always, if you need support with parenting your non-conformist in a way that suits you and yours..let's talk.

Schedule a BREAKTHROUGH SESSION today. We'll look at your goals, the challenges you're facing, opportunities you might be missing. We'll also uncover hidden problems that may be sabotaging your desired results. You'll leave the session feeling renewed, re-energized, and inspired to get results faster and easier than you thought possible. And you'll have a plan of action to do just that.

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There are three ways that parents typically work with me:

1. Schedule a BREAKTHROUGH SESSION today. We'll look at your goals, the challenges you're facing, opportunities you might be missing. We'll also uncover hidden problems that may be sabotaging your desired results. You'll leave the session feeling renewed, re-energized, and inspired to get results faster and easier than you thought possible. And you'll have a plan of action to do just that.

2. ENCOURAGE GREATNESS 6-MONTH PROGRAM. A hybrid program that combines the benefits of targeted, individual, private mentorship and the support of a small group. To maintain the program's integrity and emphasize personalized attention, there are limited spots available. Click here to start the process

AND BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND:

3. Three spots per month are opening up forTHE QUICK FIX VIP day - a 1/2 day private, intensive virtual meeting with 2 follow-ups. The Quick Fix is designed to work through and put a plan in action to solve one pressing parenting issue. We'll not only have a plan of action; you'll have implementation steps, accountability, and support to see it through. It all starts with a phone call. Click here to start the process

"Action is the foundational key to all success." Picasso

"If you are feeling overwhelmed and need some support in the parenting department, Mary Kerwin will help guide you. She’s an educator with decades of experience based in NYC but she has online offerings too. Check it out. She’s pretty awesome." .~Claudia L., mom of 3 and entrepreneur