In this episode, we sit down with Arushi Chopra, a California-based consultant and mother to 17-month-old Vani. The conversation unfolds as an honest exploration of how mindful, respectful parenting can reshape family dynamics and parental identity. Arushi shares her journey from being an information-hungry first-time mom to discovering the RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophy — a framework that transformed her understanding of what it means to raise a child as a “whole, capable person.”The discussion traces her evolution from the anxiety of early motherhood to an intentional, partnership-driven model of parenting with her husband, Alankrit. From solo parenting weeks while balancing full-time work, to creating family rituals like their new “Annual Family Day,” Arushi opens up about the messy, beautiful realities behind parenting abroad without extended family support. The episode blends philosophy with lived experience — showing how slowing down, observing, and communicating with infants can nurture not only confident children but also calmer, more self-aware parents.🌟 Why You Should ListenIf you’ve ever felt torn between “doing it all” and “being present,” this episode will ground you. Arushi’s reflections offer a refreshingly unfiltered take on modern motherhood:Learn how RIE’s respectful parenting principles (founded by Magda Gerber) can be applied at home to cultivate independence and mutual respect from infancy.Understand what it means to parent as equals, sharing responsibilities, emotions, and learning curves with your partner.Hear candid insights on solo parenting, emotional regulation, and redefining support systems as an immigrant parent.Discover how being seen and heard are not only your child’s needs — but yours too.This episode is especially resonant for working parents, cross-cultural families, and anyone seeking to break free from inherited parenting scripts.🛠️ Practical Takeaways for ListenersStart communicating early: Narrate what you’re doing with your baby, even during diaper changes or meals. It builds trust and language awareness.Slow down caregiving: Allow your child to participate — raising their leg for a diaper change or choosing between two outfits are early steps in autonomy.Respect boundaries: Avoid asking questions if you can’t accept “no.” Model emotional regulation instead of control.Build rituals of connection: Whether it’s a Saturday brunch or a “Family Day,” consistent shared experiences strengthen partnership and family identity.Redefine the village: Seek support through other parents, classes, and friendships — especially when extended family isn’t around.Prioritize self-regulation: Your calm is your child’s calm. Pause before reacting; presence outweighs perfection.Resources and ReferencesRIE® (Resources for Infant Educarers) – www.rie.orgMagda Gerber, Your Self-Confident BabyJanet Lansbury, RIE educator and author – www.janetlansbury.comMontessori philosophy – The Montessori Foundation🧘‍♀️About the GuestArushi Chopra is a management consultant and first-time mother based in California. Originally from Delhi, she’s passionate about conscious parenting, cross-cultural identity, and building family rituals that honor both individuality and connection. A practitioner of the RIE® (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophy, she advocates for raising emotionally aware, self-directed children through mutual respect and presence. Arushi’s reflections have resonated with parents seeking authenticity and balance in modern family life.💬 Join the Conversation🔔 Review & Subscribe: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!💖 Follow Us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenthootwithneha/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parenthoot/☕ Support Us: https://buymeacoffee.com/gargneha Your support helps keep the show running.

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