Hi, I’m Maria — Parenting Nerd, Teen Guide Author, and Big Believer in Raising Resilient Humans
A few years ago, I traded in my lab coat (I was a biochemist!) for diapers, board books, and late-night Googling of “is this normal for a toddler?” Motherhood flipped my world upside down — in the best, wildest way.
As my kids grew, so did my curiosity. I began reading everything I could about child development, neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and what it truly takes to raise confident, capable children. That passion eventually turned into this blog — The Smart Parenting Guide — where I share tools, tips, and “you’ve-got-this” encouragement for parents who want their kids to thrive, even if life feels a little chaotic.
However, as my own children approached the tween and teen years, I noticed something was missing.
There were plenty of parenting books. Plenty of rules. But very few honest, helpful, modern guides for teens themselves — something that didn’t talk down to them or sugarcoat the world they’re growing up in.
So I wrote one.
It’s called How to Survive (and Win) Your Teen Years, and it’s the guide I wish I had as a teen — and the one I now want every parent to have in their back pocket for their kids.
It tackles everything from stress and friendships to sex ed, money smarts, and digital life — with tools teens can actually use (and a voice they’ll actually listen to). It’s also designed to grow with them, from age 13 to 19, and includes a special section for parents, too.
So, whether you’re here looking for playdate ideas, parenting tips, or a life guide to hand to your teen, welcome. You’re in the right place.
We're raising the next generation together — and it matters more than ever.
Email: maria@smart-parenting-guide.com
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