Not much about 2020 and 2021 feels “simple.” Not much about parenting feels simple! But I recently I stumbled upon the aptly named “simplicity parenting” style, and I’ve been trying to implement the ideas into our family life.

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This method should be called “common sense parenting.” The counselor and educator, Kim John Payne, works with families to reduce the noise, clutter and general chaos that is overtaking our homes and lives. He strives to equip parents with the tools that allow children to connect, thrive, and live anxious-free and simple childhoods.

Imagine your life… with a sense of ease as you begin to limit distractions and say no to too much, too fast, too soon. Today’s busier, faster, supersized society is waging an undeclared war . . . on childhood. 

Kim John Payne of simplicity parenting

As a general rule, my husband and I love being home, and we don’t over-commit our kids in all the activities. We try to keep after school hours and the weekends fairly free from too many outings. — However, life is still life and our days are sometimes busy and stressed. And we have recognized that our kids feel the crunch and stress as well.

Payne suggests four areas or “realms” that, if simplified, can start to dial back the craziness of life:

Environment: De-cluttering too much stuff at home.

Rhythm: Increasing predictability by introducing rhythmic moments for connection and calm.

Scheduling: Soothing violent schedules brings moments for Being into all the Doing.

Unplugging: Reducing the influence of adult concerns, media and consumerism on children and families to increase resilience, social and emotional intelligence.

The gold of this method really lies in his podcast. Every one is pure gold. Find them on whatever app you use to listen to podcasts! You won’t regret it.