Less Drama More Mama
What can Japanese parenting teach us about raising calm, capable kids?
This week, I'm talking with Lisa Katayama, author of The Japanese Way of Parenting: What It Taught Me About Raising Mostly Calm, Caring, Capable Kids.
Lisa was born and raised in Tokyo and now lives in Northern California. In our conversation, we talk about what stood out to her as she raised kids in the U.S. while drawing from the values she grew up with in Japan.
We discuss differences between American and Japanese parenting when it comes to independence, routines, choices, meals, cleanliness, self-care, and being on time. Lisa shares how Japanese culture often emphasizes structure, respect, and guiding kids in a way that helps family life feel calmer.
One of my favorite parts of this conversation is that it's not about finding one right way to parent. It's about noticing what resonates and taking what works for you and your family.
Lisa also shares practical ideas from her book, including the concept of douzo, a gentler way to offer and share, and why making parenting more playful can shift the tone at home.
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