Editorials by Dr. Gordon Neufeld and the faculty

Our editorials offer insights from Dr. Gordon Neufeld and faculty, applying attachment-based developmental science to the pressing issues of our time. These writings help parents, educators, and professionals navigate complex topics with clarity, wisdom, and a deep understanding of human development.

Tamara Strijack

Tamara Strijack · Nov 2, 2020
HELP! Adolescent Angst Then and Now
Tamara Strijack reflects on her own teenage angst and her daughter’s, showing how parents can create safety for adolescents to feel, stumble, and gro…Read more
Tamara Strijack · Sep 28, 2020
Of Frogs and Ferns: creating conditions for natural learning
Tamara Strijack shares how connection with the natural world opened a child’s curiosity and emotions, showing that true learning grows from safety, a…Read more
Tamara Strijack · Feb 16, 2020
Gardeners at Heart: Growing Emotional Health in our Children
Exploring how safe relationships and creative play nurture children’s emotional health. Insights from Neufeld Institute faculty Hannah Beach and Tama…Read more
Tamara Strijack · Jan 5, 2020
Wishing You An Ish-Ful New Year!
Tamara Strijack reflects on the pressure to “get it right” and invites us to embrace creativity, mistakes, and playful exploration instead. Read more
Tamara Strijack · Jun 16, 2019
Behind the Scenes: The Magic of Music
Discover how music and master teachers unlock children’s voices, nurture emotional growth, and create safe spaces for self-expression. Read more
Tamara Strijack · Nov 16, 2017
Lessons from the Farm: Finding Rest
Through Poquito the rescue dog, Tamara Strijack reflects on attachment, separation, and how children learn to rest when trust and care come first. Read more
Tamara Strijack · May 23, 2017
Lessons from the Farm: Defensive Blindness
Tamara Strijack explores defensive blindness — what an alpaca’s haircut reveals about how children protect themselves from what’s too hard to face. Read more
Tamara Strijack · Nov 29, 2016
Lessons from the Farm: A Matter of Instinct
Tamara Strijack explores life with Pippin, her herding, shoe-chewing puppy, which reminds her of how natural instincts drive both animals and childre…Read more
Tamara Strijack · Oct 16, 2016
Lessons from the Farm: A Story of Alpha and Alarm
An alpaca’s alarm teaches us about children in alpha mode, why insecurity fuels anxiety, and how adults can restore safety. Read more