About

My name is Nancy Gapasin Gnass and I've had the honor of guiding countless number of parents through the different stages of childhood as a Parent Educator for past 17 years.  As an Educator for three decades, I have taught adults, teachers, middle and high school students, toddlers and pre-Ks. I speak and consult with parenting and school organizations, and I am an instructor in the Child Development department at City College of San Francisco.  My greatest joy is being a mom of two spirited adolescents and the partner of an amazing husband of thirty years.

I started this blog because the parents in my parenting classes insisted on it.  I'm not very good at writing, especially about myself, so I'll let parents with whom I've worked tell you about me…

Nancy can field questions on practically any topic related to parenting, based on her vast and deep knowledge of child development, but she always shares what she knows with friendly sympathy and humor, which parents really need. Her stories about raising her own children remind me of a good doctor, who shows you that she has the same kind of mole on her own body—and so you feel reassured that it’s nothing to worry about.  --Karen, parent of A

Nancy is so steeped in child development research, the experiences of countless parent students, and her own kids, that she has the confidence to listen to questions and answer in an open, honest, and nonjudgmental way.  These types of educators are unfortunately too rare, often dictating what they think should work for your kid.  Nancy gives you things to think about and encourages you to share with your partner so that your family can come up with a few options to try. Nancy's class entices me to learn more about parenting and partnering, which is proving invaluable to me, my child, and to my wife.  --Chris, Parent of R

There is an unending supply of parenting advice these days, and making sense of the often-polarizing views can be daunting. Being in class with Nancy is like being in the peaceful eye of the storm! She focuses on the important issues that are relevant to all kinds of families and is completely nonjudgmental in her guidance. I also love that she relies on data when discussing different philosophies of raising children. Nancy is a wise and wonderful teacher! --Catherine, parent of N

As an adult who spent little time around children before having my own, I learned so much about the kind of mother I want to be in Teacher Nancy's class. Her (research-based) philosophies really resonated with me, giving me the permission and confidence to trust my instincts and my child. Not only was the class a lovely place to bring a baby and spend time in, it was also so beautiful to have an acknowledgement that taking care of a child well is a skill, and a social good—and to have the help and support to figure out how to so with grace and joy. I am so grateful for this class. --Shruti, parent of K

Nancy is a community treasure.  She works hard and is dedicated to her students and pedagogy.  I am thankful for the four semesters of thoughtful, helpful, supportive and important teachings that have changed my perspective on parenting and life.  I am also grateful for the community she builds and maintains with the wisdom she imparts.  My child and I have grown and learned so much! It has been a treat knowing Nancy. --Kelly, mom of W

Having Nancy as a parenting teacher has been an invaluable resource and extremely enjoyable.  As a parent of a 13-year-old boy and a 1-year old girl, I repeatedly come to Nancy for information and guidance on specific issues like "What do I say when my teenager needs constant positive encouragement?' or "How do I react when my one-year-old screams and points when she wants something?"  Nancy has supported me, and my classmates, in developing our parenting styles with current research and personal experience instead of judgment, which is so important in the often fear-based parenting environment; Nancy stresses that we need to choose what works for our families, which has enabled my confidence.  The framework and support she provides empowers me in becoming a better parent.  I feel very fortunate to be a part of the supportive learning community that Nancy fosters.  --Lisa, parent of K and A

Nancy's class has made me a better mother, wife and person. She is approachable, kind and thoughtful. Her teaching style is engaging and meaningful and she doesn’t shy from- but rather embraces- essential parenting topics that can be challenging to cover. I feel grateful and lucky to know her and to be able to learn from her." --Sonia, parent of V and J

I have had the great pleasure of having Nancy as my instructor this year. Each week Nancy thoughtfully picks out articles for discussion.  There is so much advice out there about parenting and it's hard to filter the useful from the not so useful.  Nancy's choices in reading are thought provoking, without being dictatorial.  Her discussions help us find our own path in this beautiful and difficult journey of parenthood.  I have come home from class on many occasions saying,  "Thank goodness for Nancy.  Trusting someones advice on parenting is difficult and so necessary and I trust her!" Thank goodness I found her class and managed to secure a spot!
--Jodi, parent of R

Nancy's class has greatly impacted my parenting.  While my daughter was enjoying the playful environment, I was learning how to foster her development and independence in positive ways as Nancy spoke about growth mindsets, brain development, the power of praise and the importance of family rituals and routines.  Her class has definitely made me a more relaxed, present and reflective parent.  Thanks Nancy! --Tim, parent of R

And, here are a few places you can find me in the Media.