The Founder

Hello Fellow Parents, Caregivers and Villagers!

My name is Darlene M. Davis Goodwine, PhD, and I am the founder of Parents Zone -- a parent-centered resource and support community I birthed from my joys, missteps, failures, and lived experiences raising Black boys, a task that demanded intentional parenting and advocacy. I am a proud parent of a biological son and a bonus son who have shaped my parenting identity and parent coaching framework.

As a parent of a teen and young adult, I am forced to reflect on and rethink my approach to parenting every single day. I am reminded daily of how difficult and demanding the parenting journey is in the presence of personal wins and losses. Their growth is a constant reminder that parenting is not about knowing it all or doing it all, but about adapting, connecting, and showing up with intention at each new stage. For this reason, Parents Zone was created so parents/caregivers would have a curated space that dismantles the "perfect parenting" myth. A safe space where parents/caregivers can connect, reflect, and grow in community with other parents/caregivers without fear of judgment.

While we know perfection in parenting is unrealistic and unattainable, many parents/caregivers still carry the burden and feel the pressure to meet that standard. Parents Zone exists to shift that narrative and remind parents that Parenting is a Practice, NOT perfection, and that growth, compassion, and community are essential parts of that journey.