Conversations with luminaries, entrepreneurs, and influencers in the parenting world
Q: Tell us a little about you.
I’m a Brooklyn Mom and also an independent singer/songwriter who makes music for kids and families. I feel lucky that I’ve been able to find balance in doing what I love as my profession as a free-lance artist, while also being a full-time Mom. It’s not always easy to juggle life this way, but somehow it works for me and my family.
Q: What or who inspires you?
I’m inspired by so many things! I’m inspired by the children that I teach, the musicians that I work with, other Moms who strive to do it all, as well as my husband and my two kids. I love to see how others evolve and grow and I’m always trying to do the same.
Q: What is your best piece of parenting advice?
For me, being the mom of two teenagers is a lot different than being the mom of young children. I’ve found that it’s not always about “teaching” them as much as it is about supporting them and holding space for them so that they can figure out what kind of adults they want to be. The most important piece of advice that I can give to all parents (small and big) is that our kids need to know that (no matter what) we have their backs.
Q: What’s the worst piece of parenting advice you have heard?
Ha! Allowing my daughter to sleep in our bed. We were still dealing with this until 6th grade!
Q: What’s the most common question you are asked by parents?
Parents often ask me when to give their children guitar lessons. Honestly, I feel that every kid is different. Guitar isn’t an easy instrument to learn for many kids. If they are 4 years old and begging for lessons, sure – give it a try! If not, wait until they are older, at least 7 or 8 years – and why not start on the uke?
Q: What are some of your favorite T.V. shows? Books? Foods?
My daughter and I love to watch shows together (she is 13). We have binge-watched “Modern Family,” “Gilmore Girls,” “Parenthood.” We are now onto “The Fosters.” My personal favorite show right now, however, is “This Is Us.” Otherwise, you can also catch me watching “Say Yes To the Dress” and “Fixer Uppers.”
Q: What parenting books do you most recommend to parents?
I recommend any parenting books that allow us to see other points of view. I feel that parenting is an ongoing learning experience, and knowing all sides allows us to parent with empathy.
Q: What are some of your favorite parenting products?
Nature.
Q: If you could be someone else for a day who would it be and why?
I would be Mr. Rogers… or Oprah Winfrey. I’d like to make a difference in the world in that same way that they both do.
Q: What’s up next for you professionally?
I’m working on making some music videos to go along with my new album, and also continuing to work on my Sing with Suzi Series on YouTube for preschoolers. I’ll also be performing a mini-concert as a Facebook Live on May 10th!
Q: Are there any other questions you wish we asked? If so, what and how would you answer?
Just that we need to show our children as often as possible what it means to be kind. Look for things in the world that show kindness, and gratitude (and love of course).