Want to know WTF a Woke Mama is? Each week, we’re introducing awesome women who are making the world a kinder place, one happy baby at a time.

Name & age: Lilly, 30

Kids: Grace 4, Ezra 3 and Winter 18 months

How did you end up doing gentle parenting?

All the parenting advice I got didn’t sit well with me. So I started researching whilst pregnant with my first. Everything I read about it seemed more natural to me.

I truly believe if a child cries they need comfort; if they have a meltdown, they need support.

If they have a tantrum, then they need to know their feelings are still valid. I want my kids to explore all their feelings, and always know I’m there.

What does being a woke mama mean to you?

Being an advocate for my kids. I have to be their voice until they can make their own choices.

I hope to guide and educate them along the way and help them find their preferences in life.

Most awesome moment so far?

Seeing them overcome obstacles. My oldest has autism and seeing her wins and how her siblings overcome things makes my heart full!

I also just enjoy the small everyday moments, where I truly see my children’s personality bloom.

Biggest struggle so far? How do you cope with stressful moments?

Dealing with 3 small kids who all need me at the same time. Having a child with autism is also scary, as a mom we worry by default, but add special needs into that and it’s even more scary and there are even more unknowns.

I don’t always cope well. I let me kids know sometimes. I want them to know it’s okay to struggle and be stressed. Sometimes we pray, sometimes we have a dance party and sometimes we eat ice-cream.

Any advice you would give to new mums?

Trust your gut! Momma instinct is very real.

Also don’t be afraid to change your mind; just because you thought you were going to do things one way, doesn’t mean you have to stick to that.

I knew early on my oldest had autism. I started asking questions when she was just 3 months and was dismissed. But I kept going and she was diagnosed at 2 and it was discovered she has a rare genetic abnormality causing the autism. We know our kids best!

What’s your one bit of advice for mamas on lockdown?