The ‘Scrunchy’ Chronicles: Balancing Nature, Nurture, and Sanity in Parenting

Motherhood is a transformative experience, and as I’ve navigated this journey, my beliefs and practices have evolved. I now find myself aligning with what’s known as the “scrunchy” mum ideology—a balanced approach that combines elements of natural parenting with modern conveniences.

Shifting Perspectives

Natural Living

One significant change in my parenting approach has been a shift towards more natural and low-toxicity products. I’ve become increasingly aware of the potential impacts of chemicals on our health and have made conscious efforts to reduce our exposure. This includes:

• Opting for organic cleaning products
• Choosing furniture and toys made from natural materials
• Using low-toxicity nappies that are free from harmful chemicals
• Checking ingredients carefully before purchasing household items, ensuring they align with our values for health and sustainability

Nutritional Choices

Our family’s diet has also undergone a transformation. We now prioritise foods that fuel the body and support development, focusing on nutrient-dense options that are both wholesome and sustainable. Some examples include:

• Looking at ingredient lists and sourcing groceries from credible farmers who practise ethical and sustainable farming
• Avoiding processed “baby” food, instead preparing fresh meals tailored to our children’s needs
• Prioritising iron-rich foods, high-quality protein sources, good fats like avocado, and nutrient-packed carbohydrates such as vegetables
• Introducing supplements like cod liver oil and elderberry syrup to support immunity naturally
• Incorporating foods that promote growth and development, such as grass-fed meats, organic eggs, leafy greens, and whole grains

Technology and Screen Time

Whilst I recognise the benefits of technology, I’ve chosen to limit its use in our household. However, I’ve found that a complete ban isn’t always practical. We’ve introduced what I call “survival use” of technology—allowing screen time during specific situations where it’s genuinely needed. For example:

• Letting the kids watch a short video or play an educational game when I need a few minutes to go to the toilet or handle an urgent task.

This approach helps maintain our overall low-tech lifestyle while providing occasional relief during busy moments.

Conscious Parenting Style

As part of my evolving motherhood journey, I’ve embraced a conscious parenting style rooted in mindfulness and emotional connection. One of the key practices I’ve implemented is co-regulation—a method of helping children manage their emotions by modelling calmness and offering support when they feel overwhelmed. Examples include:

• Sitting with my child during tantrums or emotional outbursts instead of isolating them, helping them navigate their feelings together
• Using soothing techniques like gentle touch or calm words to help them regulate their emotions
• Encouraging open communication about feelings to build trust and emotional resilience

This approach fosters a deeper bond between parent and child while teaching essential skills for managing emotions independently as they grow.

A Balanced Approach

Being a “scrunchy” mum means finding a middle ground between different parenting philosophies. It’s about taking what works for our family from various approaches and creating a unique blend that aligns with our values. This flexibility allows us to adapt as our children grow and our circumstances change.

Continuous Learning

Parenting is a journey of constant learning and adaptation. I remain open to new information and experiences, always striving to make the best choices for my family’s health and well-being. Whilst my views on certain topics, such as vaccination, have changed, I encourage all parents to research thoroughly and consult with healthcare professionals when making important decisions for their children’s health.

In embracing this “scrunchy” approach, I’ve found a parenting style that feels authentic and sustainable for our family. It’s a journey of balance, mindfulness, and continuous growth—one that I’m grateful to be on.

Navigating Social Challenges

As I’ve embraced this new approach to parenting, I’ve discovered that my evolving beliefs and practices haven’t always been well-received within my community. The shift in my ideology, particularly regarding topics like vaccination and natural living, has sometimes led to tension or misunderstandings with friends, family, and other parents.

Whilst I remain confident in the choices I’m making for my family, I’ve learned that these topics can be sensitive and divisive. I’ve found that sharing my views, especially on social media or in casual conversations, can sometimes lead to unintended conflicts or judgments from others who may not understand or agree with my perspective.

As a result, I’ve made a conscious decision to be more selective about how and where I discuss these aspects of my parenting journey. I will continue to stand firm in my beliefs and ensure they are implemented in my child’s upbringing, but I’ve chosen to step back from sharing these views on my personal profiles or in broader social settings.

This decision isn’t about compromising my values, but rather about preserving relationships and avoiding unnecessary conflict. I’ve come to appreciate that every parent’s journey is unique, and what works for my family may not be the right fit for others. By keeping these aspects of our life more private, I hope to maintain a more harmonious balance between staying true to our family’s choices and respecting the diverse views within our community.

Moving forward, I’ll focus on connecting with like-minded individuals in more appropriate forums while maintaining a respectful silence on these topics in broader social contexts. This approach allows me to continue our family’s chosen path without the added stress of social friction, ensuring a more peaceful and focused parenting experience.