"Each child is an innocent, beautiful, soul - a tender bud longing to be nurtured into full bloom"
'The Child in the Family' - Maria Montessori
At the start of my journey I came upon a book entitled 'The Care and Feeding of the Indigo Children'. This was the 'lightbulb' moment! A book written in the US by Doreen Virtue (a spiritual doctor of psychology) on the phenomenon of children being born into the world since the 70s who were "right-brain dominant, bright, creative, intuitive and strong-willed". The traits talked about in this book helped me to understand more about the children in my care (and many of their parents).
However, not wanting to give these children labels, I chose to move away from the 'Indigo' label and look for, and incorporate, an alternative understanding. This led me to read about Elaine Aron's experience, who as research psychologist and psychotherapist, wrote the book 'The Highly Sensitive Child'.
20% of children are born highly sensitive - with a nervous system that reacts to high levels of stimulation from their environment, often resulting in demanding and emotionally temperamental traits.
I have since read numerous books, and researched many articles, on this subject - most of which originate from the US. Many of the children written about have been recognised as having intuitive abilities. Having had these skills myself since a child, this enhanced my connection and understanding of these gifted children.
All the information came together and, to me, these children became known as 'enlightened'. They are caring, in tune with themselves, others, and nature. And, as in nature, when we have the privilege to live and work with these children - to see their beauty, and watch them blossom under our careful nurturing - it brings us closer to understanding who we are, and why we are here!
Embracing this knowledge, I am currently one of only a few people in the UK experienced in this field. Using the Montessori teaching ethos, my life coaching skills, and intuitive counselling, I am able to give support and guidance to many people, including children (and their parents) using my concept of 'The Life Garden'.