Five Gentle Parenting Tips
At Cleo Nanny Co, we believe that parenting is most powerful when it’s grounded in empathy, consistency, and connection. Through the Cleo Ethos, our approach blends global best practices in childhood development—from the Danish way of parenting to Dan Siegel’s work on emotional intelligence.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or navigating toddlerhood’s tricky moments, here are five gentle parenting tips that work in everyday life.
Tip 1: Validate Big Feelings (Even When You Can’t Fix Them)
Children don’t need us to solve every problem—they need to know we understand. When your child is upset, try saying:
“I can see you’re really frustrated right now. That’s okay—I’m here.”
This teaches emotional literacy and builds trust. Our nannies are trained to respond to emotion before behaviour, creating a calm foundation for growth.
Tip 2: Set Clear, Kind Boundaries
Gentle parenting doesn’t mean saying “yes” to everything—it means setting limits with empathy. Try phrasing boundaries like:
“I won’t let you hit, but I can help you find another way to show how angry you feel.”
This respectful approach honours both your child’s emotions and your role as a calm leader.
Tip 3: Create Predictable Routines
Children thrive when they know what’s coming next. Predictable routines around meals, naps, and screen time help reduce tantrums and increase cooperation.
Cleo nannies are trained in routine planning tailored to each child’s rhythm—making transitions smoother and days more balanced.
Tip 4: Model Emotional Regulation
The best way to teach emotional control? Show it. When you're frustrated, narrate your process:
“I’m feeling overwhelmed, so I’m going to take three deep breaths before we keep going.”
This normalises self-regulation—and encourages your child to try it, too.
Tip 5: Focus on Connection Before Correction
Discipline is most effective when the relationship is strong. Before jumping into consequences, take a moment to reconnect:
“I love you. Let’s talk about what happened.”
Cleo’s holistic care model prioritises connection in every moment—because when children feel safe, they’re far more likely to listen, learn, and grow.
Final Thoughts
Gentle parenting is not about being perfect. It’s about being present, empathetic, and consistent. At Cleo Nanny Co, our nannies embody this approach in their daily care—empowering families with more peace, fewer power struggles, and deeper bonds.
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