Often, if not always, two parents come to the work of raising children with different perspectives and instincts. One parent may lean more toward structure and routine, while the other leans more toward flexibility and responsiveness. Both are trying to support their child in the best way they know how, yet these differences can sometimes lead to tension or disagreement.

For adoptive, kinship, and permanency families raising children with trauma histories, attachment disruptions, or complex developmental needs, these dynamics can feel even more intense. Many families are learning to parent in ways that prioritize connection, co-regulation, and understanding the meaning behind behaviours, often while navigating exhaustion, uncertainty, and the emotional weight that can come with this journey.

Add to this the many layers that accompany raising children with complex needs: fatigue, limited time to invest in the co-parenting relationship, worries about the future, and the daily demands of supporting a child’s emotional and nervous system needs. It is no wonder that parents can struggle at times. Children, in turn, express what is “between” the parents.

With this, there is a huge invitation for each parent to do their own work so they can show up in the best way as individuals, as co-parenting partners for each other, and for their children.

Join Dr. Vanessa Lapointe for a seminar exploring common reasons co-parents struggle and thoughtful ways parents can strengthen their partnership while raising children with complex needs.

It will be a 1-hour workshop followed by a 30-minute Q&A.

Participants will learn:

  • How different parenting styles can complement each other rather than create conflict.
  • Strategies for strengthening the co-parenting relationship while raising children with complex needs.
  • Ways to support their child’s regulation by improving the dynamics between co‑parents.
  • Practical tools for staying connected, grounded, and collaborative under stress.
  • Have opportunities to ask questions and apply concepts to your own family situations during the 30-minute Q&A.

*The term “co-parent” is used to describe two people who have a joint and vested interest in the raising of their children. They may be married, separated, or divorced, and they may live under the same or different roofs.

About Dr. Vanessa Lapointe
Dr. Vanessa Lapointe is a mom, parenting educator, best-selling author, international speaker, and regularly invited media guest. She holds a doctoral degree in psychology, and practiced as a psychologist for nearly 20 years, before devoting her full-time energy to connecting with parents and other “big people” around the globe in 2023. Founder of The North Star Developmental Clinic, Dr. Vanessa has long been supporting families and children in her developmental clinic alongside her team and has previous experience in community mental health and the school system. Dr. Vanessa is known for bringing a sense of nurturing understanding and humanity to all of her work. Her passion is in walking alongside parents, teachers, care providers, and other big people to really see the world through the child’s eyes. She believes that if we can do this, we are beautifully positioned to grow up our children in the best possible way.

Please note 
This session will be recorded. All registered participants will receive a private link to the recording, which will remain available for 30 days after the event. This means that families who are unable to attend live will still be able to access the full workshop at their convenience. If you prefer that your name not appear on the recording, you’re welcome to join the session using a pseudonym.

Date: Monday, March 30
Time: 7 to 8.30 p.m.
Session fee: Free
Format: Zoom