Parent of the Year Contest: An Exclusive Q&A with Sean Gentile, MBA

Sean Gentile, a Certified Florida Supreme Court Family Mediator and owner of Non Attorney Divorce, has spent over two decades helping families navigate life’s challenges. Based in Oakland Park, FL, Sean is also a proud mother of four and the author of multiple books, including her most recent, 100 Effective Ways to Be an Extraordinary Parent. In this exclusive interview, Sean shares her inspiration and vision for the upcoming Parent of the Year contest, set to launch on January 1, 2025. Contest details will be available on www.nonattorneydivorce.com.

What motivated you to create the Parent of the Year contest, and why is it meaningful to you?
Parenting is one of the most impactful yet undervalued roles in society. I’ve worked with countless families as a mediator and seen firsthand how essential strong parenting is for creating healthy, stable family dynamics. The Parent of the Year contest is my way of celebrating those incredible parents who dedicate so much love, resilience, and intentionality to their children. This contest is about shining a light on their achievements and validating their hard work.

We will recognize more than one winner because every parenting story is unique and deserves acknowledgment. Through this contest, we hope to inspire others and build a community of parents who learn from and support each other.

How do you teach your children about safety, and why is it the first question in the contest?
Safety is foundational in parenting. Everything else stems from ensuring your child is physically and emotionally secure. In my home, we use tools like security cameras, locked doors, and smoke alarms to keep our environment safe. Beyond that, I teach my children personal safety rules, such as not opening the door unless I’m there or understanding that their body belongs to them.

Safety education evolves as children grow, so it’s important to revisit and expand these lessons. For example, when my kids started using the internet, we discussed online safety. In the contest, I want to hear how parents implement safety measures for different ages and situations. These stories will be powerful examples of proactive parenting.

How do you help your children become effective communicators?
Communication is at the heart of every relationship, and it starts at home. I encourage my children to express their thoughts and feelings while guiding them to choose words thoughtfully. When emotions run high, like anger or frustration, I help them work through their feelings in a constructive way.

For the contest, we’re looking for parents who validate their children’s emotions and foster positive communication skills. This includes teaching them to listen actively, express themselves clearly, and resolve conflicts with empathy. Effective communication not only strengthens parent-child relationships but also prepares children to interact successfully with others.

Why is conflict resolution an important focus in the contest?
Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it makes all the difference. As parents, it’s our job to teach kindness, thoughtfulness, and respect for others. When children learn to approach conflicts with a mindset of understanding, they develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

In the contest, we’re looking for examples of how parents teach their children to resolve conflicts while considering the feelings of others. These lessons create a ripple effect, helping children navigate relationships with less friction and more compassion.

How does the contest highlight a child’s education?
Education is one of the most vital parts of a child’s development, and parents play a critical role in supporting it. For example, encouraging daily reading—even just 20 minutes a night—can make a significant difference. Staying in regular contact with teachers is another key component. I recommend parents check in at least twice a month to stay informed about their child’s progress.

The contest encourages parents to share how they address their children’s academic needs. Whether it’s arranging tutoring, fostering a love of learning, or helping with school projects, we want to hear how parents prioritize education in their homes.

Why is financial literacy included in the contest?
Financial literacy is a life skill that is often overlooked. As parents, we have a responsibility to teach our children the value of money, saving, and setting financial goals. In my home, we talk about everything from budgeting to long-term investments.

For the contest, I’m excited to hear how families are introducing these concepts. Are they showing their children how interest works? Teaching them about saving for future goals? Financial education empowers children to make informed decisions as they grow into adults.

What role do hobbies and talents play in a child’s life, and why are they part of the contest?
Hobbies and talents bring joy and purpose to a child’s life. Whether it’s playing a sport, exploring music, or diving into art, these activities allow children to express themselves and discover their passions.

As a parent, I encourage my kids to explore activities that interest them. This not only boosts their confidence but also creates opportunities for us to bond. For the contest, we want parents to share how they’ve helped their children develop hobbies and talents. These experiences are often some of the most rewarding parts of parenting.

Why is it important to discuss struggles parents have overcome?
Parenting is not without challenges, and every family faces its unique struggles. Whether it’s financial hardship, emotional difficulties, or physical health issues, overcoming these obstacles shapes us as parents.

In the contest, we’re asking parents to share their stories of resilience. What lessons did you learn? How did you adapt? These stories will inspire others and remind us that parenting is a journey filled with growth, strength, and love.

Final Thoughts on the Parent of the Year Contest
This contest is about celebrating the incredible work parents do every day. It’s a chance to honor their dedication and provide a platform to share valuable insights with others.

Prizes and detailed entry information will be available on January 1, 2025, at www.nonattorneydivorce.com. I can’t wait to read your stories and celebrate the amazing parents in our community!

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