The Susan Stiffelman Interview

You are welcome to another unique interview with a popular parenting expert, Susan Stiffelman.

Susan is “a unique blend of licensed therapist, credentialed teacher, beloved auntie and down to earth mom. Her book, Parenting Without Power Struggles is based on her work with thousands of parents and children, from celebrities to everyday moms and pops”.

I hope you will find the interview interesting , educative and worthy of your time because it’s filled with many helpful information.

Sikaz: Could you tell us your name, location and age?

Susan : My name is Susan Stiffelman, and I live in California, in the United States.

Sikaz: What is your opinion about parenting; is it worth it?

Susan: Of course parenting is worth it! Children depend on their parents or grandparents–or whatever adult is looking after them–to guide them and take care of them.

Sikaz: What is your opinion about breastfeeding?

Susan: Generally it is very good for babies to be breastfed. It also helps promote a special bond between mother and baby, helping deepen their connection and bring emotional security to the baby

Sikaz:   What are the challenges of working and breastfeeding your baby?

Susan: If a mother is gone for many hours a day, she will have to pump her milk so she doesn’t become uncomfortable, and also to provide milk for the baby in her absence.

Sikaz: What are the things one should look out for while choosing a nanny

Susan: You should make sure the nanny has good references from people you speak with personally who will attest to her good qualities, honesty, sense of responsibility, and experience with young children. Nannies need to love children–which may seem obvious but isn’t always the case. They should be patient, creative and aware of ways to handle children without becoming reactive or hurtful.

Sikaz: Would you describe your older child’s experience when the younger child was born?

Susan: I think he had a very pleasant childhood, with a lot of love and care, and many friends.

Sikaz:  How would you describe your typical day as a parent?

Susan:It is different now that my son is attending University. When he was younger, he was taught at home for the first six years of grammar school. He read many books, and we tried to do interesting activities with science, art and writing, in addition to the regular curriculum. He then went to school after grade 6, except when he was fifteen and we spent some time in Africa!

Sikaz: What is your personal opinion about teenage parenting?

Susan: I think teenagers are often too young to be parents; it’s important to wait until you are ready to take on the responsibilities of caring for a child. Teens who do not practice safe sex put themselves at risk for becoming parents before they truly want to take on the job, which is very demanding.

Sikaz: What do you think could be done to stop teenagers’ involvements in violence and hard drugs?

Susan: The more connected teens feel to their family and loved ones, the less likely they will be to turn to drugs and other negative activities. Many parents give up on their teens because they believe it’s too late, but it isn’t.

Sikaz: What are the causes of teenage disrespect and how could it be stopped?

Susan: Teens often test the limits of the adults who are looking after them. If we become reactive or angry, then we are telling them that they are more powerful, and in a way we bring on that disrespect. Instead, adults need to hold a place of calm and strength when their teens act disrespectful, letting the youngster know that it’s not okay to speak that way, but also telling them that if they (the teen) are upset, you (the adult) are willing to listen.

Sikaz: What is your advice for those who are planning to be parents one day?

Susan: Learn as much as you can about children and parenting before you suddenly find yourself with a baby! Be prepared! And be willing to be what I call the Captain of the Ship, in charge as the solid, reliable person in the child’s life. You may not be able to be the child’s friend, but what they most need from you is to be their safe guide.

Sikaz: What is your opinion about books, seminar and workshop on parenting?

Susan: It depends on the information in the books and seminars! If it’s good information, I think it’s very helpful to parents to learn from people who have worked with many children and parents professionally. But in the end, it’s also important that parents listen to and trust their own instincts.

Sikaz: Are parenting coaches relevant and helpful to parents?

Susan: Absolutely, if they’re any good!

Sikaz: Some parents seem to be neglecting their parenting activities for their career, what is your opinion on this and its effects on the society at large?

Susan: It’s very difficult for parents to juggle work and family. One thing that is important is that parents do not feel guilty, because none of us can ever do everything we need to in a single day. Do your best, and make it a priority to connect at least 15 or 20 minutes a day with your child, giving them your undivided attention and letting them know how interested you are in them and how much you enjoy their company. Show your love by giving whatever time you can, as often as possible. You may feel that it’s not enough, given the demands of your career, but just do your best and make sure your children know how precious they are to you by your actions and

behavior.

Sikaz: l want to thank you Susan for this interview. Dear reader you can visit Susan Stiffelman at her website www.passionateparenting.net