What is Optimal Parenting?

Optimal Parenting is family life in which the capacities, talents, and relationships of each family member are nourished in well-being and emerge into greatness.

 To parent optimally means that:

• Relationships among family members are always the priority.
• Relationships form the network in which the child self discovers and self creates.
• Every moment is a learning moment. Every instance of relationship is a time of self discovery.
• The developmental capacities and limitations of the whole child—physical, emotional, cognitive, psychological and spiritual—are well understood.
• The child’s destiny emerges. It is not fixed. Optimal relationships lead to the best possible destiny.
• Children are not passive learners but active participants who make continual contributions to the learning of those around them.
• Conflict resolution stops the momentary struggle. Long term solutions arise from well-being in family relationships.
• Remedying dysfunction means removing the blocks to well-being, not only alleviating the symptom or behavior.
• Optimal well-being in the family is the basis for healthy communities and a vibrant society.
• Social justice depends on recognizing and supporting the relational capacities and contributions of children.
• Natural Learning Rhythms, which combines whole child development and family dynamics, provides the information needed to optimally parent.

Optimal Parenting Goods and Services

From EnCompass, the Center for Natural Learning Rhythms

• Family Enrichment Program
• Family Camp
• Family Weekend

Books
Optimal Parenting - Using Natural Learning Rhythms to Nurture the Whole Child
Natural Learning Rhythms - Discovering How and When Your Child Learns

Audio CDs
Optimal Parenting - The Natural Learning Rhythms Approach to Family Well-Being