Welcome to Middle Ground Parenting

My name is Cathy Kawakami and I am a Certified Positive Discipline Parent and Classroom Educator and Lead Trainer through the Positive Discipline Association.  I offer Positive Discipline training and support for parents, teachers, caregivers, counselors, therapists and others who want an effective discipline approach that integrates social and emotional learning while reducing challenging behaviors.  I discovered the Positive Discipline books and techniques when my children were young and the philosophy has changed my life for the better. I have been working with children and families for over ten years and have extensive experience working in whole school settings. In addition to offering local support for educators and families in Northern California, I have served on the international non-profit Positive Discipline Assoication's Board of Directors and presented at international conferences. The mission of the PDA is to create a peaceful world by teaching Adlerian social and emotional life skills for respectful relationships.

The name Middle Ground Parenting reflects a main concept of Positive Discipline - working together to find respectful solutions that work for everyone.  I'm a parent too, in the middle of my parenting journey.  I understand the struggles of today’s parents because I am right there with you. Through Positive Discipline, I have learned empowering tools that help me to be my children's first, best teacher and have also helped me to improve all of my relationships.  The teachings of Positive Discipline are filled with non-punitive, respectful methods that will incorporate kindness and firmness into parenting.  I am passionate about teaching these tools to others to improve relationships for all.

Here is how I can help

What is Positive Discipline?

Positive Discipline is a program designed to teach young people to become responsible, respectful and resourceful members of their communities. The teachings of Positive Discipline are filled with non-punitive, respectful methods that will incorporate kindness and firmness into parenting, help parents get to the core of their child's misbehavior, bring more joy into the home and give parents a sense of accomplishment! Based on the best selling Positive Discipline books by Dr. Jane Nelsen and co-authors Lynn Lott, Cheryl Erwin, Kate Ortolano, Mary Hughes, Mike Brock, Lisa Larson and others, it teaches important social and life skills in a manner that is deeply respectful and encouraging for both children and adults (including parents, teachers, childcare providers, youth workers, and others).

Recent research tells us that children are “hardwired” from birth to connect with others, and that children who feel a sense of connection to their community, family, and school are less likely to misbehave. To be successful, contributing members of their community, children must learn necessary social and life skills. Positive Discipline is based on the understanding that discipline must be taught and that discipline teaches. Positive Discipline is a long term parenting philosophy that teaches kids to feel "I am capable, I can contribute, and I can use my personal power in useful ways to improve my live and the lives of others!"