All Natural Mommies

The current newsletter from Mothering talks about Authentic Parenting, a term I’ve heard a lot lately in natural parenting circles.  But what exactly does it mean?  The first definition in Webster’s for authentic is “not false or copied; genuine; real” 

By this definition, authentic parenting would be real and genuine parenting.  Raising your children with your own genuine ideals and beliefs.  Staying true to yourself and your family regardless of what other families are doing.  I think this is very much in line with what we are trying to do as “Natural Parents.”  We may use cloth diapers even though our in-laws say it’s insane.  Or breastfeed our young longer than the social norm.  Who hasn’t gotten side-long looks from the other moms at the playground when it’s mentioned that your children are not vaccinated?  Yet, we don’t give in!  We don’t change because of social pressure.  That is staying authentic and teaching our children the power of staying true to themselves. 

These things may not fit into another family’s idea of authentic parenting.   And that’s okay.  Differences of opinion are an opportunity for discussion – not lecturing, but open communication. 

What do you think?  What does authentic parenting mean to you and your family? 

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