Lara lives on the London/Hertfordshire border with her husband and her two sparky, energetic children. Before becoming a parent, she was a primary teacher and was fascinated by neuroscience, child development and learning. When her son was born in 2010, followed by a daughter in 2013 Lara realised that however much theory you know, nothing can prepare you for how amazing AND relentless life as a parent can be! She quickly discovered quite how important good information and support are and how much harder parenting becomes if we are unable to access these.
Lara came across Hand in Hand Parenting in 2017 when her children were 6 and 3 and was excited to find a connection-based approach that was both flexible and straightforward to use. She says:
“I jumped right in to experimenting with the Hand in Hand tools and found that they helped us with all sorts of difficulties, from fears and aggression to sleep and sibling relationships. It felt almost magical how simple changes in the way I responded to my children when they were having a tough time led to really clear shifts and ever better relationships between us. Family life is so much more rewarding now.
Like many parents, I found the concept of Listening Partnerships really challenging at first but I am so glad I stuck with it. This tool has been such a great way to access support while making changes in my parenting and dealing with the inevitable ups and downs of life.”
In 2019 Lara became a certified Hand in Hand Instructor. She loves working with and supporting others in learning to use this approach and deeply understands that every family is unique. She is passionate about helping parents get the information and support they need to make their family life more connected and enjoyable. Lara runs classes, talks, workshops and support groups both online and in person in North London/Herts.
Her areas of special interest and experience include working with children who are highly sensitive, spirited, intense, anxious or aggressive and also those who show signs of giftedness/HLP, learning or sensory differences.
Here’s what parents have had to say about working with Lara:
“The course in general and working with you in particular has been amazing. It is completely changing the way I parent and look at the role of being a parent. You create a kind, empathetic and respectful environment within which we can all explore the demands and frustrations, and equip us with the tools to deal with these in a gentler and more playful manner. I have found it to be a moving and powerful thing to be a part of, and can’t thank you enough for the gift you offer.” Jess, Online class
“Lara has been an excellent instructor. She was very responsive and clear and held us all so well. I experienced Lara as wise, supportive, compassionate and insightful. This course has really helped me understand my child and successfully put into practice the Hand in Hand tools and principles. I would highly recommend this course and Lara as an instructor.” Nick, Dad to a 4yo, Online class
“Attending Lara's Hand in Hand parenting course has been a total life-changer for me. It has given me back a sense of confidence in my parenting, helping me to regain feelings of joy in my interactions with my twin boys. Lara's sensitive, non-judgemental approach has allowed me to gently unfold my fears and worries around being a Mum. She offers a safe, supportive environment in which to share and learn.” – Liz, Mum to twin 11 year olds. Local class.
“Lara has been genuine and beautifully supportive from the first time I ever spoke to her. I've just finished the course and have already seen massive changes for my family, particularly for my 8 year old and handling his aggression. Lara has helped me to understand the root of his behaviours, given me tools to physically deal with them with confidence, and shown me how to resource myself so I can actually do it!” Marina – Mum to 8 and 4yos, Online Class
You can contact Lara by email: [email protected] or through her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HandinHand.LaraZane/
Here are some articles from Lara:
On the value of Listening Partnerships:
On Special time: https://www.handinhandparenting.org/2020/05/special-time-hurdles/
One for the homeschoolers – or those considering it: https://www.handinhandparenting.org/2020/08/how-do-i-homeschool-my-child/
Sibling rivalry: https://www.handinhandparenting.org/2020/04/this-tool-will-stop-your-kids-fighting-and-help-them-be-friends/