OyeRonke Sanni - The Nurturer

Hey guys!  I am pretty sure you are aware of the deep concerns of how much screen time and steady increase of same across board, though much more with children and young adults than full-grown adults compared to the recent past, when academics, vocational training coupled with chores, interacting with neighbours, and outdoor activities were considered the ultimate life-balance indicators. Right now, we live in a world where screens glow brighter than the sun sometimes and oftentimes where a five-minute scroll can easily turn into a five-hour spiral. 😅  Yet, in the heart of every nurturing effort lies this simple truth: we must guide, not gag; lead, not lecture, especially when it comes to screen time. As nurturers: parents, mentors, caregivers, teachers, we are not here to demonize technology, far from it rather to help our children, teens, and even ourselves use it more intentionally, without loss of inculcated values/morals nor any form of disorientation.  In actual fa...

Have you noticed, that there is a new rhythm echoing in nurturing circles, globally? This is not about just raising “perfect”  offsprings, rather much more about raising emotionally grounded individuals. Gone are the days when parenting was all bark, bites and no soft talk nor soft-landing. Here comes gentle (understanding) parenting - where empathy takes the lead, and emotional intelligence becomes the  compass for meaningful results.  This is not about permissiveness rather it is all about presence, being present in each other's life:  - It is the quiet strength of taking a deep breath instead of a deep shout. - It is asking, “What do you need right now?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” In homes, where gentle parenting is embraced and good nurturing is enhanced, therein you will find more than rules and regulations but in equal if not greater measures there would be that great connection of hearts, building good bonds with clarity and understanding.  Child...

The people within our circles of influence especially the younger ones are not empty rather they are full of inherent talents, yet to be tapped potentials like sealed scrolls not blank slates eargerly waiting to unfold - layer by layer. Our nurturing steps will thus be to read, look deeply to gain insights not necessarily rewrite the scrolls. Each child, every young person, carries that unique spark -  a whisper of purpose etched into their very beings. Our role as nurturers is not to impose a blueprint, but to gently reveal what is already there, like the patient unfolding of a sacred manuscript. And yes, that takes discernment, intentional listening, and the art of quiet guiding — not overbearing, stifling re-direction. True nurturing sees talent not as a thing to control, but as a seed to water - to bud, blossom and thrive. 🎨 A child who doodles on every available surface might just be the next visual storyteller. 🛠️ The one who disassembles the radio might carry the mi...

It has been a few days, yes almost a full week since the celebration of Father's Day, all over the world. While we are still within the month, it is pertinent to look at the menfolk who deliberately nurture others - children/wards/students/proteges  etc. These group of intentional men are not just raising children rather they are raising nations. This uniqueness cuts across the board irrespective of the titles - biological dad, step-dad, uncle, big cousin,  foster dad, adopted son turned care-giver, ègbon adugbo (an older, recognized, respected person in the community - a mentor), their thoughtful contributions are profound and make huge impact that affects the next generations - the ripple effects. The contributions made: school runs, the gentle back-pats, how to knot a tie, the wise counsels, gentle reprimands and admonitions to set things right, or just being a great example of a wholesome individual make all the difference in the child's life as he/she grows through dif...

Hmmmmmmm, not all nurturers are biological relations...,they do show up in different sizes, shapes etc, not one size fits all.  It is another day to celebrate a group of special persons, who get to be overlooked more often than not all year round (these ones who may not always say much, but their presence is very much loud in impact). As we mark yet another Father’s Day, we take a moment to spotlight the often unsung but deeply powerful role of men as nurturers — not just in title, but in consistent actions. Whether it is the biological dad who shows up at school events, the uncle who quietly pays fees, the foster father who stands firm as a safe place, or even that thoughtful older cousin who always checks in - these men shape lives in ways that linger long after childhood. Nurturing is not only about hugs and lullabies, rather it is - ...sometimes, the reassuring “I've got you,” - …the lifted eyebrow that says “you can do better,” - …the silent sacrifices made without...

Hmmmmmmm, atmosphere, atmospheric, spaces et al. Have you ever walked into a space and felt instantly lighter, happier? Or spent time with someone who left you buzzing with renewed hope and some good energy? That is the quiet power of your immediate surroundings/ environment, the soft, quiet, force that gently shapes your thoughts, moods, and even your dreams. Whether it is a peaceful room filled with positive affirmations and green plants, or a circle of people who clap the loudest for your small wins, nurturing may not necessarily be vocal, however it always leaves a feeling. 💡 Your immediate environment counts. Sometimes the most far-reaching and effective form of self-care is walking away from chaos and choosing peace. This could in the form of: - playing soul-lifting music. - candlelight journaling with all its calmness - soaking up the sunlight in silence. - a walk with someone who “gets it.”, who is on the same page with you. 💬 The company you keep matters. The Hol...