It's going to be okay!
Parents of young children, I know you're in the toughest season right now. Your days are made up of a multitude of little moments. Loud ones, quiet ones, joyful ones, messy ones, and confusing ones. The path isn't always clear, and rarely perfect—but I speak with more than 30 years' experience when I say it will be okay. And you're not alone. I am here to help you navigate the noise, stop worrying, and start building a plan that allows you to experience this season of parenting with more confidence, calm, and enjoyment.
— Kathy Carpenter
About Kathy Carpenter
Early childhood expert Kathy Carpenter has been working with the youngest learners and their parents since the 1900s (1994, to be exact). A respected local leader on the importance of play-based and outdoor education, she has led countless workshops, parent chats, and classes helping parents and educators navigate these early developmental years. She recently retired from St. Anne's-Belfield School as Director of the Early Childhood Program, where she had the honor of teaching thousands of students. She is a proud mother to three grown boys, each with very different learning needs, and an even prouder grandparent to two young grandkids.
Individual Coaching for Parents
Our coaching and advisory sessions are designed to address your specific concerns related to your child(ren) age 2 through elementary school. From child development guidance and parenting support to school navigation and emotional regulation strategies, I provide compassionate, actionable solutions tailored to each family's needs.
Length: One hour, book as many as needed
Cost: $150 / hour
Sliding scale pricing is available. Please contact to discuss.
Small Group Trainings for Parents
For more than 20 years, I have taught the Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) program to groups of parents. If you and other parents would like to schedule some small group training sessions, I would be happy to either lead a STEP class or design a curriculum based on your group's needs. At the end of the training sessions for STEP, you will have increased skills in:
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Identifying the underlying reasons for child misbehavior
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Redirecting and preventing misbehaviors
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Providing encouragement and bolstering child self-esteem and confidence
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Communication and cooperation within the classroom with parents
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Giving natural consequences
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Choosing teaching approaches
Length: Typically 4 weeks (one session a week)
Contact for pricing and scheduling
Professional Development
In addition to parent coaching, I offer professional development sessions for schools, early childhood centers, and educational organizations. These trainings can be designed to fulfill Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) mandated training requirements or training can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your staff. Let’s work together to create a meaningful and engaging session that supports your team’s goals.
Contact for pricing and scheduling
Topics We Might Explore
Early Childhood Development
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Is my child meeting developmental milestones?
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What’s typical for this age, and where does my child fall?
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Is my child ready for school?
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What should I be looking for in a school for my child?
Family Dynamics
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How is the best way to introduce a new baby or family member?
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How can I get on the same page as my co-parent?
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How do I reduce sibling rivalry?
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Can you help me with family time management strategies?
Behavior Management
Can you help me manage my child's ... ?
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Toileting
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Sleep issues / napping
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Picky eating
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Temper tantrums
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Biting / kicking / fighting
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Social issues with friends
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Self-regulation and emotional regulation
Parent Tool Box
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What is appropriate praise?
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What is a balanced daily schedule for my family's circumstances?
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How can I give requests so my child will listen and comply?
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How can I better engage in play with my child?
Colleen
"Kids are naturally drawn to her. She makes them, and their parents, feel safe and supported. Kathy brings deep experience, zero judgment, and a calm confidence that leaves you feeling heard and empowered. Every time I walk away with clarity and practical guidance—and never with guilt."
Sally & Patrick
“We’ve had three very different children, and Kathy saw and supported each of them for exactly who they are. She’s the person you call in a moment of uncertainty, and the one who quietly guides you through both everyday bumps and the challenges that take time to understand.”
Stacey & Mark
"Kathy has a rare gift for seeing the world through the eyes of a child. She then gently translates the child’s experience into simple, clear language that parents can understand, offering concrete, actionable solutions. Because of our time with her, we are stronger, more confident parents with better communication skills."
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will I need?
After each one-hour session, you will leave with actionable solutions tailored to your family's needs. Most people will find they only need two or three sessions of individualized coaching for a particular need, though of course every family's needs are different.
What can I expect during a coaching session?
During a coaching session, parents can expect an empathetic and confidential environment. So that you may be fully present and openly discuss your thoughts, feelings, and the issues you are experiencing, it is usually most appropriate for children not to be in attendance (some exceptions may be made for lap infants). I will be listening carefully, offering suggestions, and partnering with you to explore solutions that best meet your family's needs. Please note this is not therapy nor do I diagnose children; though I am happy to make referrals to specialists.
When and where do sessions take place?
I understand that one of the biggest challenges of parenting is simply finding the time—and the right space—to connect. That’s why I offer flexible meeting options designed to fit your unique needs. I have access to a warm, welcoming office space, but I’m also open to alternative locations. Let’s talk and find what works best for you!