Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley DiStefano & Britt Herzog, Co- Founders of Simple Guidance.
Hi Simple Guidance, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Simple Guidance was born from an unwavering resolve to shield our community from experiencing the heartbreak witnessed in Uvalde,TX. Before the inception of SG, we were not only close friends but also parents whose children shared a classroom. Following the Uvalde tragedy, Ashley contacted numerous moms and community members, urging them to convene and strategize ways to avert such sorrow. Among those approached, Britt responded. Together, we embarked on earnest discussions regarding bolstering family resources and support within our community. Thus, Simple Guidance came into being, born from a shared commitment to safeguarding our loved ones.
Britt, a co-founder of Simple Guidance, and parent coach who embraces the complexities of family life with simplicity. Drawing from her experience as a former Montessori teacher, author, and dedicated mother.
With an extensive background spanning over a decade in early childhood development, both in domestic settings and classrooms, Britt is well-prepared to guide families through diverse challenges.
Britt’s expertise encompasses a wide array of areas, from skillfully taming tantrums and effective behavior management to expert meal planning. She also offers valuable LGBTQ+ support and lends guidance during significant life events such as divorce, loss, and blending families.
Britt’s diverse knowledge equips her to provide comprehensive assistance and practical strategies, enabling families to navigate these transitions with grace and resilience.
As an empathetic and compassionate parent coach, Britt fosters a secure and non-judgmental environment for families to openly share concerns, pose questions, and seek guidance.
She firmly believes in the transformative power of personalized support and collaboratively partners with families to craft effective strategies tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
Ashley, one of the co-founders of Simple Guidance, brings a wealth of expertise and a deep passion for assisting families during the crucial first three years of life.
With an educational foundation, Ashley has a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies, with a specialized focus on Conception to Adolescence Brain Development. Her commitment to helping families is underscored by her qualifications:
– Certified Postpartum Doula, trained by Austin Baby Guru.
– Over 4500 hours of overnight observation of newborn sleep.
– Proficiency in Breastfeeding Management, acquired through WIC.
– Experience in creating and implementing Postpartum Mental Health Plans for Mothers and their Support Persons, in partnership with PPHA of Texas.
– Evidence-Based Management for Breastfeeding, Crying, and Sleep Problems, gained from Possum Education.
– A multicultural perspective on Birth and Beyond, enriched by her association with PPHA of Texas.
– Certified in Postnatal Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) through Baby Bliss Yoga.
Ashley’s approach is firmly rooted in evidence-based practices and guided by a non-judgmental philosophy. She fosters a secure and nurturing environment where families are encouraged to openly share their concerns, seek answers to their questions, and receive personalized guidance tailored to their unique needs. Ashley is here to support you on your journey through the early years of parenting.
We provide support groups, community gatherings that include children and their parents, and education about mental health, bullying, and life transitions. Additionally, we support Pride Caldwell County, local families with our loan closet, and serve on the board of the soon-to-be PFLAG Lockhart. We also provide parent coaching, breastfeeding support, and postpartum mental health planning for free to anyone in the community who needs it.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
We have received tons of community support. We love our community here in Lockhart, Texas, and from day one, we felt the love back. Anytime we put on an event, look to raise money and awareness, or our support groups, our community shows up. We are a community-driven organization constantly shifting to provide what our community lacks.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with what you do?
At Simple Guidance, we are dedicated to family and community well-being. We promote family stability, enhance parenting skills, improve children’s well-being, and reduce the risk of family crises or breakdown. By addressing a range of needs, support services contribute to the overall health and resilience of families within communities.
We create a safe and non-judgmental space for parents to discuss their concerns and questions.
We may provide strategies and techniques for effective discipline, communication, and problem-solving. We help parents brainstorm solutions and develop action plans. We tailor to the specific needs and circumstances of each family.
Recognizing that every family is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.
We provide private in-home and virtual family consultations, classes, workshops, and free community programs. We strongly believe in the power of support systems that help families feel seen, supported, and connected, ultimately contributing to the thriving of our communities. We feel providing guidance, resources, and a sense of belonging empowers families to navigate their parenting journey confidently and easily.
Together, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, ensuring that we can cater to a wide range of needs and challenges faced by families. Whether through personalized services, educational classes, or engaging workshops, we are committed to helping families thrive.
We are your allies on the journey through the beautiful messiness of family life.
Pricing:
- Parent Coaching $50 per one hour session
- Breastfeeding Class $85 in home/ $65 virtual
- Life with Baby Workshop – $85 in home/ $65 virtual
- Life Transitions Workshop – $65 virtual
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/simpleguidance
- Instagram: @simple.guidance
Image Credits
Crystal Glaze Photography
