Parenting is an incredibly important responsibility and so we wanted to get a conversation going with input from parents in the community. We asked them: what is the most important thing you’ve done as a parent? We’ve highlighted some of the responses below.

Oddrun Valestrand | Actress and artist

Being an Actress and an artist is a lifestyle and I have managed to include my three children so we heavent been so much apart during their upbringing. They have met a lot of people and all enjoied and felt safe on filmsets, theatres and backstages. They have learned to coorporate and being a part of a team. They all started acting at the age of three and they always get to choose if they want to do the job themselves. Read more>>

Monica | Energy Intuitive

I have two boys ages 20 & 12 and I have ventured off into a career that is unconventional and different. I have given them the ok to be different and think outside the box in knowing there is an deeper meaning to this life.There is more than just what meets the physical eyes. In the process of seeking more, they are really just seeking inwards and getting to know themselves more. Read more>>

Karen Pulfer Focht | Professional Photojournalist

Since I was a child, all I ever wanted was to be a photojournalist. It is all I have ever wanted to do. I’ve always had a deep desire to share what I see and to tell people’s stories. I loved the idea of documenting history for future generations. I’m curious by nature. Read more>>

Natashia Deón | Novelist & Criminal Attorney

Showing up. The power of presence is everything. Not only taking up space, but doing so with a cheerful heart, even if or when we’re hurting. We can’t always, but we can always make it a goal. A kid’s memory of us will last longer than our lives so we can intentionally give good ones. The bad ones will happen on their own. Our gift to our children is peace, safety, is managing emotions, is to see them and to love them. Read more>> 

Doniyah Johnson

The most important thing I’ve done as a parent, in terms of the impact on my son, is ensuring he knows he can be as free as he wants and live the life he chooses. He’s only 2, almost 3, but he’s already very free-spirited and friendly, just like me. Read more>>