Ever wondered...
“Am I doing this right? Am I messing up my kid?”
You’re not alone–and you’re in the right place.
It’s time to shift your parenting approach, strengthen your connections, and transform the way your family lives and grows together.
Welcome to
You might be ready for a new way to parent in the real world if…
You lose your cool:
You sometimes lose your temper in ways you regret–even as it’s happening or minutes later– but you don’t know what else to do.
You and your partner or co-parent want the same outcome for your kids, but you’re not on the same page about how to get there. So you end up frustrated with the person who’s supposed to be your support system.
You’re overwhelmed
& exhausted:
It’s hard to make decisions or follow through because you don’t have all the information you need.
You believe it’s possible to understand and connect with your kids to create the kind of family you want to be a part of–but you don’t know where to start, or how to keep going without burning out.
You have a tough kid
(or kids):
You wish someone who knows your family–but isn’t in your family–could help you figure out what to do, without the judgment, shame, or blame.
You feel overwhelmed, out of your depth, and constantly challenged (not in a good way).
You just need some specific, focused, concrete strategies to try tonight.
You’ve been there,
done that:
Listening to podcasts, reading the latest books, and scrolling social media feels impersonal and lacks accountability. Every expert has a different take, and it’s hard to know which approach to follow.
Plus, you often doubt whether you’re even “doing the thing” the right way.
Everything still feels SO. HARD.
… or maybe, you just want to do right by your kids.
Turn down the noise enough to hear–and trust–your gut (even if you think you don’t have good instincts). And…
Stop losing your cool, yelling, and feeling out of control by using skills that actually work (even if you don’t know what they are yet)
Handle challenging situations with confidence, knowing that you have a plan for what happens next (and what happens after that… and even after that)
Feel good about your parenting decisions–even when people around you are being judgey
Actually enjoy parenting, so you want to spend time with your kids and connect (yes, it’s possible!)
Hi. I’m Cari,
(MOM, MAT, CPC x 2, MCLC) -- parent, teacher, and coach.
I’ve been exactly where you are: trying to build the parenting plane after takeoff.
Through a lot of trial–and a whole lot of error–over the past two decades, my family has learned how to understand each other, communicate thoughtfully, solve problems, and grow closer over time… all while honoring each individual’s needs, quirks, and values. And since parenting never really ends, I still work at it.
Every. Single. Day.
I was a classroom teacher for 26 years. I know kids, I understand them. And I truly get what makes them tick.
I also know parents–because I’ve worked with thousands of parents to help them better understand their kids and meet
their needs in a way that feels authentic and sustainable for the whole family.
Somewhere along the way, I earned a master’s degree (MAT), racked up loads of teaching certifications and awards, raised
two children (MOM), read thousands of parenting books (so you don’t have to), and completed extensive training to
become a Certified Parent Coach (CPC), a Master Certified Life Coach (MCLC), and a Certified Professional Coach (CPC).
Now, I use it all of it to help parenting make sense for people who want to do right by their kids–even if they don’t quite
know how… yet.
“Cari was the first person who gave us concrete strategies and actual ideas that we could go home and use the same day. She is the answer to the whole ‘Kids don't come with instruction manuals’ problem.”
M.K. - Parent of Two
“Cari is down-to-earth, validating, creative, funny, supportive, empathic, structured, and focused. We truly get a lot out of our time together every time.”
E. - Parent of
Neurodivergent Teen
“Cari is real. She listens, but she is also not afraid to tell me if she thinks I could be handling things a different way. She cares about me and my children.”
J.H. - Parent of Teens
Parenting in the Real World is the guide you’ve been looking for to help you raise grounded, connected kids–without losing yourself in the process. This comprehensive course is delivered in three powerful phases:
LEVEL ONE: CREATE the Family You Want to Be a Part Of
-Define the kind of parent you want to be for your kids every day
-Get clear on what you want your family life to feel like–and make a plan to create it
-Understand more and react less to your children’s behavior
-Learn how to set boundaries and build connection (yes, you can absolutely do both–when you know how)
LEVEL TWO: Take ACTION and Build Real-World Skills
-Stay regulated, even when the s**t hits the fan (because sometimes it will)
-Teach your children the regulation tools you’re learning now (just imagine if you had these at their age!)
-Avoid power struggles and communication breakdowns while protecting your relationships
-Solve recurring issues at the root, instead of rehashing the same arguments on repeat
LEVEL THREE: TACKLE the Daily Issues That Derail Family Life
-Make purposeful and manageable changes that lead to real, positive results
-Move forward without getting stuck or overwhelmed–because you’ll know exactly what to do and how to do it
-Ditch the patchwork advice and conflicting online voices
-Stop wasting time flipping through books for that one helpful idea
-Get support without doing all the heavy lifting or dragging anyone (partner or child) along behind you
Bonuses to 2x the Value of Your Course
When you enroll in Parenting in the Real World, you get the full program plus these life-easing extras:
The Parenting in the Real World Handbook: Curated notes from every section to print, highlight, and build your own go-to parenting survival guide
Step-by-step How-To Guides: Quick-reference tools for those stuck moments when you need to know what to do right now
Six Group Coaching Calls per Month: Ask your specific questions during All-Calls or rotating Special Interest Group sessions. (No, you don’t need to attend all six–that would be bananas. But you’ll have plenty of access to Cari when you need it.)
Full access to the Traction Training Vault: On-demand mini-trainings for those sticky, in-the-moment parenting challenges that can throw your day off course
Real World Resource List: Background info and expert insights behind the tools you’re learning–all in one place
Members-Only Guides & Exclusive Discounts: Vetted, tested, and aligned parenting resources so you can stop wasting money on things that don’t deliver
Ongoing Access: Keep access to all program materials and bonuses for as long as you’re in the program, or one full year if you choose yearly access
Which Option Is the Best Fit for Your Family?
If this sounds like you…
You've entered uncharted parenting territory and want to know if you're on the right track.
You’re looking for an intentional, curated, actionable parenting framework that makes sense–and works together as a whole.
It would be such a relief to have a small community of like-minded parents in the trenches with you.
You feel like you’re doing all the heavy lifting–or dragging your co-parent behind you. Having access to the same material (at your own pace) could help you finally get on the same page.
Traditional advice is hard to implement or doesn’t work for your family–you need a more personalized approach.
You've worked one-on-one with Cari and have "graduated" from private coaching, but you’d love continued access to her and the materials.
… Then Parenting in the Real World Membership + Group Coaching is for you.
Or maybe this is more your situation…
Your family is in the middle of an "all hands on deck" moment–it's urgent, intense, and needs immediate, focused support.
You’re facing a specific challenge or situation that requires ongoing individualized attention.
You’re ready to commit to working 1:1 with Cari for at least three months. (Some families stay longer, but a three-month minimum is required for
high-intensity support.)
You’re willing to carve out time between the chaos to tune into the program (even if your schedule is inconsistent), because having a clear, actionable
framework is way better than doom-scrolling through the DSM-5.
…Then let’s talk about Private Coaching.
Note: I do my best to make space for families navigating heavy seasons, but availability is limited. It's always worth a conversation–reach out and we’ll explore what’s possible.
Or maybe you’re here…
Your family is already working with a therapist, doctor, OT, or coach–and you’re not looking for additional support in that area.
You want a clear, intentional parenting framework to support your child’s growth–one that flows with, not against, the progress you’re already making.
Things are going well. You just want to stay ahead of the curve and feel more confident and prepared for your child's next developmental leap.
You’re tired of piecing things together from random posts and contradictory advice online.
…Then the Self-Guided Parenting in the Real World course is a great fit.
Note: If you’re seeking parenting help and don't already have another professional to turn to for guidance during specific challenges, this self-paced tier may not provide the holistic support you need. Please consider Group Coaching instead.
Still don’t know which to choose?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide:
Where & When: The on-demand audio lessons fit into the nooks and crannies of your real life. Listen while doing dishes, on a walk, or in the school pick-up line. Every section is paired with printable tools–checklists, templates, and step-by-step guides–so you can immediately implement what you’re learning.
How Personalized Support Works in the Membership: You’ll have access to six live group coaching calls per month via Zoom. Ask Cari specific questions–whether you’re stuck on a strategy or things went sideways and you need a reset.
The monthly call calendar is published in advance so you can plan ahead. No pressure to attend every call (because, life!), but you’ll always have options to get the support you need.
Lays the foundation for a more intentional, connected, and sustainable parenting approach.
Here, you’ll clarify your values, learn what really matters (and what doesn’t), and begin shifting your daily actions to reflect the kind of parent—and family—you want to be.
Create Alignment
Make sure that how you want to show up as a parent matches how you’re actually parenting each day.
Learn the Ten Guiding Principles of Parenting to help you refocus on what matters most. Practice small, daily shifts that radically simplify and strengthen your parenting approach.
Create Your Environment
Hold both your kids’ needs and your family’s values with care–so everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Identify your core values so you feel confident about where you spend your time and energy. Add elements of play back into your family life to bring more ease and joy to your days.Use perspective-taking strategies to reduce frustration and increase empathy.
Create Understanding
Finally start to understand why your kids act the way they do, so their behavior stops triggering you.
Learn the basics of the brain and how it drives your child’s (and your) stress response. Discover why stopping big feelings isn’t the goal–and what to do instead. Use a clear, simple approach to help kids name, understand, and express their emotions.
Create Safety in Relationships
Understand how attachment styles shape– but don’t determine – your connection with your kids.
Cultivate empathy to create real understanding and trust in your closest relationships. Practice loving accountability by setting and holding healthy boundaries. Learn the art of repair so ruptures don’t linger and lead to resentment. Support sibling relationships, even if things feel tense or disconnected right now.
Turn insight into real-life change.
Knowing what you want to do as a parent is one thing. Actually doing it – especially when emotions are high or the day’s gone sideways – is something else entirely. Turn reflection into practice, and build tools for regulation, communication, and cooperation that work in the moment, not just in theory. Stop spinning your wheels and start seeing change– in yourself, your kids, and your family dynamic. This is where you start to say, “Okay, I can do this.”
Regulate
Go beyond buzzwords to really, truly understand what emotion regulation is – and what supports it.
Build your own regulation toolkit and identify your top tools so they’re ready when you need them most. Get clear about what regulation looks like in kids–and how to help your child get off the roller coaster (or at least slow it down). Learn the essentials of supporting kids without rescuing them so they can build emotional strength and self-trust.
Communicate
Learn about the three types of conversations–and how to recognize which one you’re in (it changes everything).
Cut through the noise and finally hear what your kids are really trying to tell you. Say what you mean in a way that others can absorb. Figure out how to communicate for real–maybe for the first time. Effectively and lovingly talk about and create change, even when it’s hard. Sidestep communication breakdowns before they spiral into frustration.
Cooperate
Stop circling around the same issues, and finally start solving them.
Use a proven step-by-step process to navigate daily and relationship challenges. Help your kids navigate conflict with each other without constantly stepping in. Clarify expectations without drowning in endless lists of rules. Understand the three types of consequences–when to use which, and how to let them do their job (so you’re not always the bad guy).
Parenting doesn’t happen in a vacuum – it happens in the messy, unpredictable rhythm of real life.
That’s where the Traction Vault comes in. It’s your go-to when things feel off-track – a meltdown, a new diagnosis, a tough conversation, or just a rough patch. You’ll get short, focused lessons and real-time tools to help you stay steady. No overwhelm. Just clear support when you need it most. It’s your backup plan, your boost, and your way to keep moving – even when life throws you curveballs.*Note: This part of the course is under construction. New topics will be added regularly!
Traction
Here’s where you’ll find a growing collection of tools, guides, and mini-trainings to help you move through real-world parenting challenges with confidence and calm. Topics include:
Navigating Mental Health, Neurodivergence & Learning
-Mental Health
-Autism
-ADHD
-Sensory Processing
-School & Learning
-Executive Functioning
Navigating the Daily Grind
-Routines
-Technology
-Food & Meals
-Sleep
Navigating Complexity
-Solo Parenting
-Adoption
-Friendship
-Family/ Grandparents
-Gender
-Sex
-Lying
-Travel with Kids
-Money
Navigating Adversity
-Substance Use
-Death
-Suicide
Navigating Life Transitions
-Divorce
-Moving
-Leaving Home
-Returning Home
Navigating Life’s Randomness
-Gratitude
-Social Expectations
-Flexible Thinking
-Confidence
24/7 Access to All Course Material: Listen anytime, anywhere – on-demand and at your own pace. Perfect for busy parents fitting deep learning into real life.
Comprehensive Notes: Download or print section notes with key concepts and strategy highlights, so you can stay focused
(even while multitasking).
Complete Resource Library: Get access to printable protocols, step-by-step guides, and checklists to help you stay grounded and on track – especially during tough moments
Live Group Coaching Sessions*: Join Cari for at least six coaching calls each month, including three open All-Calls and three rotating Special Interest Calls:
Parenting Neurodivergent Kids
Parenting Young Kids
Parenting Teens
Parenting LGBTQ+ Kids
*Available with membership + Group Coaching and Private Coaching tiers
Ready to Parent with More Clarity, Confidence, and Connection?
Join Parenting in the Real World and get the tools, support, and community you need — all in one place. No more guessing. No more going it alone. Just real help for real life.
FAQs:
What parents ask before saying, “Sign me up!”
I’m already overwhelmed – how can I possibly make time for one more thing?
Let’s be honest: you’re already spending a lot of time and energy listening to a mix of parenting voices that often leave you second-guessing, regretting, or feeling unsure.
Now, imagine using that same time to learn exactly how to:
-Create the kind of family you actually want to be part of
-Meet your kids’ needs without losing yourself
-Problem-solve with confidence – even when things are hard
Parenting in the Real World was built for your real life – which is why it’s audio-only, completely on-demand, and comes with printable notes and resources to support you when you need them most.
Once you start, it won’t feel like another task. It’ll feel like hanging out with a kind, no-nonsense friend who truly gets it – and offers research-backed, practical strategies you can use right away.
What My Clients Are Saying:
“We have gotten more out of this than years of weekly individual therapy. It's like putting the emphasis on the right syllable.” E-Parent of Two
“We previously took a parenting class, and I've read books, but that information can be dense and hard to retain. Cari helps us through the daily ups and downs in an honest and insightful way. She's given us new perspectives on the different stages our kids are in... and how to deal with each of them individually and together.” E.B.-Parent of Three
“I loved that I was able to access this program anytime I had a few moments of downtime. Cari presents a plethora of ‘easy to use in this very moment’ tips, tools, and inquiries that supported me to be the amazing parent that I so desired to be.” J-Parent of Three
“It’s hard for me to talk about parenting…” What’s it like to work with Cari?
Honestly, the best way to answer that is to let my clients tell you:
“Cari is fantastic. She listens to us and gives us ideas tailored to our situation and our daughter. We never feel judged, and we always feel supported.” J-Parent of Two
“Talking with Cari isn't ‘heavy’ and doesn't feel like I am trying to change who I am as a parent. Coaching helps me find what works with my parenting style and move toward things that work in a way that suits my family.” R-Parent of Four Teens/Young Adults
“Cari is open, honest, and compassionate. She helps us to process difficult situations and life experiences in a constructive and actionable way. Cari is a wonderful human and has been so supportive of us and for us as we navigate our parenting journey.” L-Parent of Two Under Five
"It's very simple: You basically save us. I feel I can trust you, which I can't say about many people."
J.H.-Parent of Three Teens
Everything’s basically fine… or fine at least right now. So why would I need this?
A lot of parents don’t have one big, glaring issue. It’s more like a low hum of uncertainty – second-guessing every decision, overthinking every reaction, and wondering if you’re getting it right.
In your head, it might sound like:
-“Am I doing this right?”
-“Am I asking too much of my child – or not enough?”
-“How can do I know the difference when both feel uncomfortable?”
-“Is parenting supposed to be this hard?”
There is an easier way: by connecting with real, trustworthy guide who knows what works – and can walk alongside you with clarity, kindness, and zero judgment. Even better? When that guide comes with a community of other parents who are in the same boat.
What My Clients Are Saying:
“I feel more equipped to handle everyday moments of conflict without damaging my relationship with my kids or creating unnecessary guilt or fear for myself. It's game-changing, really, how the program has created a sense of peace in my parenting journey.” W-Parent of Three Teens
“Do not hesitate. If you want to get positive results and feel held and guided, parent coaching with Cari is the way to go.” T-Parent of Two
Will it be weird to share personal things about my family in an online group?
Sharing personal information is… well, personal. The good news? You get to decide how much (or how little) you want to share. I can answer your questions as generally or specifically as you need – no pressure, ever.
Sometimes, just hearing other parents open up can help break the ice. But it’s totally fine to just listen for as long as you want. And if you do choose to share, you might be surprised by the wave of relief that comes when you see others parents nodding, sighing, or smiling right along with you.
It’s one thing for me to tell you you’re not alone. It’s another thing entirely for you to feel not alone.
What My Clients Are Saying:
“This group is a lifeline.” It is super helpful to hear that we're more like other parents than we realized, and to hear that they experience the same struggles.” M- Parent of Two
“We've felt fully open to sharing and zero judgment, which I think some people may worry about when first starting a group.” A-Parent of Two Under Five
“It is a safe space.” R-Parent of Two
Will I get my questions answered without one-on-one coaching?
Short answer: Yes.
Every group call includes time for both scheduled questions and informal, real-time follow-ups. Whether you come with something prepared or something comes up mid-conversation, there’s space for your voice – and your situation.
What My Clients Are Saying:
“Cari is a good facilitator, and we feel like we get individual attention in the group setting.” W-Parent of Two
“Having Cari to ask questions and get answers when new behaviors and issues arise has helped us immensely.”
M.W.-Parent of Two Busy Toddlers
How can someone coach us if they haven’t met our kids?
Great question – and here’s the honest answer:
This work isn’t really about your kids. Yes, we’ll talk about them (a lot), but the most meaningful shifts come from exploring you – the stories you tell yourself about your child, the expectations you carry (of yourself and others), and the way you respond when something needs to change.
Everyone quoted here – and throughout my site – has done this work without me ever meeting their child face-to-face.
What My Clients Are Saying:
“I thought Cari would need to meet our daughters and observe our interactions with them to be able to help us. But that has not been needed. Turns out the work was more about us than our child.” J.R.-Parent of Two in Preschool
“Even though Cari does not meet with my child (and he works with his personal therapist), he loves Cari's approach with me, and her suggestions bring positive results for us both.” W-Parent of Four
“Without ever meeting my child, Cari gave me a framework for really listening and helped me figure out when to use it in my daily life. I feel free, lighter, happier, and more in control.” K-Parent of Four
I’m already paying so much for other professionals. Why add another thing?
I hear you. When you’re investing in therapy, assessments, or other specialized support for your child, it can feel hard to justify spending one more dollar.
Quick question: If everyone is supporting your child who’s supporting you?
Parent coaching isn’t a replacement for therapy – it’s a complement. It gives you the tools, clarity, and confidence to show up differently in the everyday moments that matter most. And often, that’s where real change starts.
What My Clients Are Saying:
“My child’s therapist really only talks about my child. With Cari, I am learning about myself in relation to my children—how to communicate with them and parent more effectively.” H-Parent of Two
“It has been wonderful to collaborate with Cari and our child's therapist. It has given us many different perspectives that we wouldn't have had otherwise.” L.G.-Parent of Two
“I engage with my children's therapists to understand their viewpoints and areas of difficulty; I engage with Cari to understand how my reactions and thought processes can impact my behavior. My relationship with my children is changing.” K-Parent of Four
"Instead of trying to share a process with our child's therapist and psychiatrist, we have a dedicated space that gives us support and helps us solve parenting problems. It feels like the focused space we have needed all along. Coaching with Cari is exactly what we needed at this stage of our process." E-Parent of Two
“We were struggling with our child for years. We just thought we had a difficult kid and needed to work on HIM. We tried everything. We finally saw so much change when we changed OURSELVES and our own reactions, responses, and behaviors. Cari is a godsend.” L.M.-Parent of Two
You Deserve to Feel Grounded,
Clear, and Confident as a Parent
