stories are how we make meaning

This is a summary of the first episode of the CosmoParenting Podcast titled "stories are how we make meaning." To listen to the complete episode, access the episode transcript, subscribe to the CosmoParenting Subtack, and leave comments to engage in dialogue with our community, follow the link below.

Listen to Episode one of CosmoParenting here.

What do you know to be true about stories and their role in your life and parenting?

Episode 1 of the CosmoParenting Podcast is out now and here is what we have to say about Stories and Parenting, beginning with two truths about stories:

1. Stories are how we make meaning

2. There are many kinds of stories that shape us- both told and untold

"When you think of stories and parenting, you might be thinking of fairy tales and bedtime stories, and while fictional stories do shape us, I’m talking about the stories we live and the stories tell ourselves about our world. For example, you may have a story about what it means to be a 'good' parent. It’s important to think about where these stories come from.?How did you learn what it means to be a 'good' parent??Maybe you developed this story based on how you were parented or how you saw others parent growing up. This is a great example of what I mean when I say that stories are how we make meaning- What I think it means to be an effective parent might be different than what it means to you. And the stories we both hold might be very different, but they can all be true, or real, at the same time even if they feel contradictory."

Here are some questions to reflect on:

1. What stories about family were you told (or not told) growing up?

2. What is the story you are telling about yourself as a parent now?

3. What kind of story about family do you hope to pass on to your children?

Listen to the full episode here.