Circle of Security Parenting®

A small, reflective parenting group for parents and caregivers of babies and toddlers

Why does my child act this way, and why do I sometimes respond in ways I don’t expect?

This 8-week parenting group is a space to better understand your child’s behavior and your own responses, so you can feel more steady, confident, and connected in your relationship.

For parents of babies (6 months+) and toddlers.

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You might find this group meaningful if you:

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  • find yourself wondering what your child’s behavior means

  • feel unsure how to respond in certain moments

  • notice yourself reacting in ways that don’t feel like your best self

  • are looking for a thoughtful, supportive space with other parents

  • are able to commit to attending weekly sessions

In this group, we’ll explore:

  • what your child’s behavior is communicating

  • how your own responses take shape in the moment

  • how to stay connected, even when things feel hard

  • how all this contributes to building secure relationships

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A woman holding a young girl in an outdoor setting. The girl has her hands clasped with the woman's hands, with her hair in a small ponytail secured with a pink hairclip. The girl appears to be looking up and reaching out with her hands.
A woman holding a baby up, with a man close by, smiling and engaging with the baby in a bright room.

Reserve Your Spot

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Ready to understand your child, and yourself, more deeply?

  • "Emma is a wealth of knowledge who adapts her philosophy to each family - it's not one-size-fits-all."

    Parent coaching client

  • "Emma and the community she creates have met me at every stage of motherhood so far with such warmth and understanding."

    Playgroup participant

  • "Beyond practical strategies, Emma gave me a great sense of calm about what I can change and effect versus what is a normal part of child development."

    Parent coaching client

A woman and a baby lying on a sandy beach, face to face, with a blue sky and clouds in the background. The woman is wearing sunglasses and has curly hair, while the baby is wearing a green shirt and a green sunhat with a leaf pattern. The baby is looking at the woman, and they are touching hands. There is driftwood and a blue toy in the sand.

About the facilitator:

I’m Emma Koehler, a parent coach, playgroup facilitator, and early childhood educator with over a decade of experience working with infants and toddlers and their grownups. I’m also a certified Circle of Security Parenting® facilitator, and a parent myself.

My work is grounded in respect, observation, and attachment theory, as well as a deep trust in children’s development and parents’ capacity to grow alongside their kids.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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  • This group is designed for parents and caregivers of babies 6 months and older, through toddlers.

  • You will get the most out of the group if you attend consistently, as each session builds on the last. That said, I understand that life happens, and if you miss a session that is okay!

  • This is a caregiver-only space (no children present). This helps create room for reflection and allows everyone to be more fully engaged. It also allows you the opportunity to talk openly about your child and their behavior.

  • No, this is a parenting education and support group. While the content can be meaningful and sometimes emotional, it is not therapy. I have a list of wonderful therapists in the Portland area I can refer you to if that is something you’re interested in.

  • You are never required to share. Listening and reflecting are valuable ways of participating, and while I hope everyone will feel comfortable sharing at some point, you are always welcome to engage at your own pace.

  • While we do use a structured program, this group is more reflective and relational rather than instructional. The focus is more on understanding your child, yourself, and your relationship, rather than learning techniques.

  • Yes, you will find sliding scale discount codes on the checkout page for this group. If paying for this group would mean a hardship, please feel comfortable using the sliding scale rates. If you are able to do so, please pay the full rate to help ensure that I can continue to offer accessible pricing to our community.

Feeling ready to connect with other parents, understand your child, and feel more confident in your parenting?

A woman and a toddler are close, smiling, and looking at each other, sharing a joyful moment.
A smiling baby with hands near mouth, being held closely by a man with a beard and a big smile, both enjoying a happy moment together.