Dr. LaCroix's introduction to parent coaching came through social media, where she discovered the concept of using natural consequences rather than resorting to shaming, yelling, or violent punishments to guide children’s behavior. Intrigued by the idea, she delved deeper into the field, seeking ways to merge her medical knowledge with her desire for a more connected and nurturing parenting style.

One of the critical aspects of parent coaching for Dr. LaCroix is the focus on building deep connections between parents and their children throughout their lives. She believes this support is essential, especially in today's world, where many parents are concerned about the increasing mental health challenges children face. “My advice for parents who are worried about the increase in mental health challenges is that their concern is valid. It makes sense for what they’re going through and there is support to help them navigate and cultivate deep connections with their kids.”

Through her parent coaching certification journey, Dr. LaCroix has acquired a wealth of knowledge and skills that have transformed both her personal and professional life. The training in nonviolent communication has revolutionized how she navigates her relationships, both within her family unit and in her professional interactions. 

“By embracing nonviolent communication and understanding the underlying feelings and needs beneath a child’s behavior, I can effectively listen to parents and provide guidance that goes beyond simple medical advice.” Learning to listen to others, discern their unspoken needs and feelings, and understand the underlying motivations behind behaviors has been a game-changer.

Additionally, emotional intelligence training and attachment theory have provided Dr. LaCroix with evidence-based parenting tools to help parents authentically grow and connect with their children. She describes the parent coaching program as a transformative experience, highlighting the importance of personal growth and the fulfillment it brings.

Working with her first parent-coaching client has reaffirmed Dr. LaCroix’s passion for this field. Her client, who shared a similar background as a child of immigrants, enabled her to understand the challenges faced by parents who transition from survival mode to a desire for thriving and deep connections with their children. Dr. LaCroix’s role as a parenting coach is to hold space for her clients, empowering them to discover their own transformation and witness their own empowerment as they navigate their unique parenting journeys.

She shares: “Parent coaching is a possibility to help families shift from surviving into thriving, and that possibility is rooted in what I experienced in my own journey.”

Why Are Pediatricians Adding Parent Coaching to Their Skill Set?

“By incorporating parent coaching techniques into my practice, I can provide comprehensive support that extends beyond the immediate medical needs of my young patients.”

Parent Coaching helps parents understand their own stories and how those stories influence their parenting. Dr. LaCroix often asks parents about their childhood experiences and how those experiences have shaped their parenting style. This reflection helps parents to understand why they react the way they do to certain situations and to make changes to their parenting if necessary.

Dr. LaCroix teaches parents how to communicate effectively with their children, both verbally and non-verbally. This support includes teaching parents how to listen to their children without judgment, how to express their own feelings in a healthy way, and how to resolve conflict peacefully.

Dr. LaCroix teaches parents how to set clear boundaries for their children and discipline their children in a loving and respectful way. This support includes teaching parents how to use natural consequences, avoid power struggles, and build trust with their children.

Dr. LaCroix believes that parent coaching skills are essential for all pediatricians. She says, “Parenting is one of the most important jobs in the world, and it’s important for pediatricians to have the skills to help parents succeed.”

Beyond Medicine: Integrating Parent Coaching Skills into Pediatric Care

Dr. LaCroix recently worked with a parent struggling with her daughter’s temper tantrums. The parent was using a lot of yelling and punitive measures, which was only making the tantrums worse. Dr. LaCroix helped the parent to understand her daughter’s underlying emotions and to develop a more effective discipline plan.

She also worked with a parent feeling overwhelmed by her toddler’s constant demands. The parent felt like a failure and was starting to resent her child. Dr. LaCroix helped the parent set boundaries and learn how to say “no” to her child in a loving way.

Dr. LaCroix believes that parent coaching is a valuable tool for pediatricians, and she is passionate about helping parents to build stronger relationships with their children. She says, “I want to help parents to feel empowered and confident in their parenting. I want them to know that they are not alone and that there is help available.”

Looking ahead, Dr. LaCroix plans to graduate from her parent coach program and establish herself as an independent parenting coach, irrespective of her hospital affiliation or geographic location. She aspires to support and connect with parents nationwide, leveraging technology to bridge the gap between her and those seeking guidance. Furthermore, she intends to integrate emotional intelligence and compassionate communication skills into her professional realm, contributing to a more compassionate healthcare system.

Healthcare Professional Spotlights