Looking for a dynamic, compassionate speaker for your parent community, school staff, or athletic organization? Kristen MacNeil, founder of Gentle Parenting Institute, is a parenting and child development expert specializing in gentle parenting, development and behavior science, positive discipline, and emotional resilience. Kristen offers engaging, research-based presentations and Go Zen–certified workshops that help adults better understand and connect with children through empathy, science, and practical tools. As a certified yoga teacher, Kristen also leads movement-based workshops for young athletes to support focus, recovery, and emotional regulation.
About Kristen
Kristen MacNeil is a School Psychologist and Licensed Behavior Analyst who brings warmth, humor, and practical expertise to every workshop. As a gentle parenting educator, certified Go Zen Facilitator, and yoga instructor, she helps families, educators, and young athletes move from stress and power struggles to confidence and calm.
Her sessions blend developmental and behavior science, mindfulness, and real-world strategies that leave participants inspired—and equipped—to bring more peace and presence into their homes, classrooms, and teams.
Speaking Topics
Kristen offers engaging talks and workshops for:
- Parent education nights
- School professional development
- Athletic Organizations
- Community organizations and conferences
Workshop Offerings
👨👩👧 For Parents & Caregivers
- Positive Discipline that Works — Practical tools for guiding behavior without punishment or shame.
- Foundations of Gentle Parenting — Building connection, cooperation, and calm in your home.
- Understanding Child Development — What’s typical, what’s teachable, and what’s really going on beneath behavior.
- Power Struggles & Boundaries — Setting limits while keeping relationships strong.
🏫 For Schools & Educators
- Creating Emotionally Safe Classrooms — Understanding behavior through a developmental lens.
- Mindful Discipline & Connection — Blending empathy with structure to support student success.
- Partnering with Parents — Strengthening communication between school and home for the child’s benefit.
🧘♀️ For Youth Athletics
As a certified yoga instructor, Kristen offers age-appropriate workshops for athletes and teams focused on:
- Mindset & Focus Training — Using mindfulness and breathwork to stay calm under pressure.
- Yoga for Performance & Recovery — Enhancing flexibility, balance, and injury prevention through mindful movement.
- Emotional Regulation for Athletes — Tools for managing frustration, nerves, and team dynamics.
These sessions can be tailored for youth sports organizations, athletic departments, or camps.
Go Zen Certified Workshops
Kristen is certified to facilitate Go Zen’s evidence-based programs for parents, educators, and youth:
- 🌱 The 5 Keys of Raising Resilient Kids and Teens
Build resilience through emotional awareness, problem-solving, and connection. - 💪 Growth Mindset Workshop
Help kids embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and develop grit. - 🔥 Anger Transformation Workshop
Teach children (and adults) healthy ways to understand, express, and regulate anger.
Why Book Kristen
Kristen’s workshops are:
✅ Research-Based and Practical – Grounded in behavior and development science, mindfulness, and positive psychology.
✅ Interactive and Inspiring – Combining evidence-based tools with hands-on practice.
✅ Customizable – Designed for parents, schools, and youth athletic programs.
Booking & Availability
Kristen offers both in-person and virtual workshops and speaking engagements.
Sessions can be tailored for your group’s size, goals, and timeframe.
📧 Ready to bring Kristen to your school, parent group, or athletic program?
Use the contact form below or email Kristen@gentleparentinginstitute.com to get started.
