I came into motherhood in a non-traditional way — as a stepmom to an awesome 5-year-old. When you join an existing family unit as a co-parent, you learn quickly that the usual rules don’t apply. There’s no handbook for how to bond. No script to follow. No clear path to take you from stranger to trusted grown-up.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned early on was this: you can’t force connection, you have to let it blossom.

So that’s what I did. I followed my stepson’s lead.

He decided what to call me (“Steppy” was an early favorite). He decided how close he wanted to get, when he felt ready to reach for my hand or a snuggle on the couch. I kept my arms and heart open, but my expectations in check. And slowly but surely, we found our way to each other.

If you’re anything like me, your instinct as a parent is to take charge. To be the one who knows best, to orchestrate everything so it all feels perfect. But some of the most meaningful parenting happens when you step back and allow yourself to be led.

Because when you let a child lead, you’re teaching them agency. You’re giving them confidence in their own voice, pace, and preferences. Those lessons will take them far beyond childhood.

Alongside my role as a stepmom, I’m also the co-founder of Tiny Organics, a baby and toddler food company built around the same belief: children thrive when they’re encouraged to explore. We designed our meals to let little ones discover new tastes and textures confidently and joyfully, while giving parents peace of mind that their child is nourished.

Parenthood has shown me that stepping back isn’t losing control — it’s making space for your child to become themselves. When you honor their pace and their preferences, you get to witness something truly beautiful: a relationship built on trust, respect, and genuine connection.