Much like the relationship escalator in romantic relationships, mononormativity gives us a narrow prescription for caregiving relationships with children, and assumptions about what roles are included in “parenting”. In polyamory, we have the opportunity to expand our ideas about family, community, and caring for young people, but we need new tools to guide us. Through self reflection and interactive discussion, we’ll explore frameworks for collaboration in customizing the roles of supportive adults in children’s lives.
The Parenting Smorgasbord
Re-imagining Caregiving Relationships in Polyamorous Families
Saturday, May 2nd
3:30 pm
Room: Mesa
101 / 201
Key Takeaways
1.
Understand the “parenting smorgasbord” as a tool for partners in customizing caregiving and parenting relationships.
2.
Feel confident in addressing common concerns about introducing partners to children, breakups, and caregiver stability in polyamory.
3.
An expanded idea of family and community, especially relevant for non-parent partners.
Jen (they/any) is a Holistic Family Consultant and mediator with 10 years of experience supporting polyamorous and/or neurodivergent parents to find solutions to parenting challenges that meet the needs of both parents and children. Their compassionate, playful, and insightful approach combined with a background in trauma informed bodywork, human development, attachment theory, and group facilitation helps families develop relationships that feel connected, joyful, and sustainable. Jen founded Polyam Parenting in 2025 to build resources and develop community among non-monogamous families of all shapes and sizes. Jen’s work with parents includes workshops, small group circles, and 1 on 1 consulting.