I regret not practicing gentle parenting with my oldest kids. I'm making up for lost time now.

The author (not pictured) said she mostly stuck to "old-school" parenting techniques as a new mother.

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• I followed old-school parenting techniques when my two oldest kids were younger.
• Since then, I've overcome the common misconception that gentle parenting is permissive parenting.
• My parenting style now focuses on guidance, natural consequences, and building trust.

I always envisioned myself being a tough-but-loving "old school" parent.