What do you think of helicopter parenting? Do people think that you are unnecessarily endangering your children?

Katie: I believe that people who helicopter parent believe they are helping their children. However, being over-protective, overbearing and over-controlling is usually a result of projecting one’s own fears onto one’s children. Although it is a parent’s natural instinct to protect, it is equally important to let your children fly. Mistakes challenge them to admit fault, learn that vulnerability is a good thing, see how their actions affect others, feel a variety of emotions, self-reflect and learn how to make different choices in the future.

Jenny: This question makes me laugh because a couple years ago I was visiting my parents in Hawaii. We were with some friends and spending the day at the beach. Kalé was almost 2 at the time. He was playing at the water’s edge. And I was standing right behind watching him like any “good responsible parent.” My friend Kanani came over and asked me what I was doing, why I was standing right over him. She said, “You look like a mainland mom— come sit with the rest of the moms over here.” She then said, “He will be fine and will learn how far he can go.” I was shocked! Who would not stand right next to their child who can’t swim. But I thought, OK, I will step away. He didn’t drown that day! But I think about that experience often in my parenting as a whole.

If your surfing could teach your kids one thing, what would that be?

Mayra: First of all, being patient to achieve what he wants, also to be shared and not be selfish, and enjoy every moment of the sea in the water or outside it.

Katie: I hope by watching me surf and the role it plays in our family dynamics, my children will learn that there is something in this world that they can connect with on a deep level. It may be surfing, needlepoint, bird-watching, or something else, but they can find it and choose it. I hope they see how important it is to acknowledge that you deserve time to honor your needs, your passions, and replenish your soul by doing that thing you connect with so deeply… And in choosing it, your entire world benefits.

Jenny: I hope that my surfing inspires my children to find things that they love to do! And to continue doing it through all the seasons of life they will walk through.

Any parting words of wisdom for other moms who want to pursue their interests?

Katie: Too often as parents we get consumed by the day-to-day hustle and bustle. My advice is to advocate for your needs. Choose to find a way to replenish your soul every day. I would say to any parent feeling the way we did, don’t give up on your interests. Continuing to practice your passion is more important than ever when you are a parent. It will keep you healthy, balanced and energized. And you will see the ripple effect in your family, with your children and in your parenting. Reach out, get vulnerable, ask for help, find your people and do what you love.

Mayra: Invite all the girls to continue doing what they love, surf the sea, athletics and any other sport as long as they do it with much caution. Being pregnant is not an impediment to continue doing what you like but to enjoy every moment.