I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Judith Dack, a dear colleague and friend whose work with children spans over three decades. Judith’s journey into holistic care was deeply personal, rooted in her daughter’s health challenges. From this experience, she has crafted a unique approach that integrates the Feldenkrais method, the Anat Baniel Method NeuroMovement, Child Space, and Pilates.
A Personal Journey of Transformation
Judith’s journey began when her daughter faced severe health complications. This experience plunged Judith into a world of uncertainty and fear. She vividly recalls the initial despair and the profound shift that came when she realized she couldn’t “rescue” her daughter but could walk alongside her on her journey.
“It was a turning point,” Judith reflects. “I shifted from fear to anger, which mobilized me to take control of her care and educate myself. I immersed myself in understanding her condition, often visiting libraries in search of answers.”
This experience not only transformed Judith’s approach to parenting but also laid the foundation for her holistic healing practices. “It taught me the importance of creating supportive environments,” she explains, “where children can thrive despite their challenges.”
Creating Supportive Environments
Central to Judith’s philosophy is the concept of slowing down. “Slowing down isn’t just about pace,” she emphasizes. “It’s a way of being present, of truly connecting with a child’s needs and capabilities.” This approach, she argues, fosters environments rich in safety, love, and learning potential.
“For every child, especially those with unique needs, a slower pace allows us to truly see and understand them,” Judith says. “It’s about meeting them where they are, not where we think they should be.”
Empowering Parents Through Connection
Through her work, Judith empowers parents to cultivate this presence and attunement. “It starts with being present in the moment,” she advises. “When we slow down, we create space to connect deeply with our children, to learn from them as much as we teach.”
She acknowledges the challenges parents face in today’s fast-paced world but underscores the transformative power of simply being present. “Connection,” she adds, “is about learning alongside our children, understanding their cues, and creating environments that support their growth and development.”
Looking Ahead
As Judith continues her work across Toronto, Vancouver, and Europe, she remains committed to mentoring parents and healthcare professionals alike. “There’s a profound joy in helping others discover new ways to support children,” she shares. “It’s about expanding our understanding and embracing the journey of learning together.”
In conclusion, Judith’s journey—from personal crisis to professional vocation—exemplifies the transformative power of holistic care and parental presence. Her insights into slowing down and connecting deeply with children offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of child development and healthcare.
To listen to the full interview with Judith Dack, please visit: https://christinelabbe.com/podcast/ and select one of the many platforms where our podcast is featured. Or watch it on YouTube.