About Rachel
I’m Rachel Tapping – a parent educator, trainer and writer with a passion for respectful, mindful caregiving. Since 2006, I’ve supported families and professionals through parent–child classes, mentoring, and experiential workshops rooted in the Pikler® approach.
My work invites you to connect more deeply with your child—and yourself—through simple, respectful practices that foster trust, presence and co-operation.
My Story
My journey began as a parent, attending parent–child groups with my three children over eight years. These experiences awakened a deep curiosity in child development and authentic caregiving.
In 2011, I began formal Pikler® training in the UK, followed by further studies at the Pikler House in Budapest. This transformative approach reshaped not only my classes, but my entire way of being with children—and with myself.
I continue to deepen my knowledge through ongoing study in Budapest, and I write regularly for JUNO magazine and the Early Years Educator journal. I have recently begun training as a Feldenkrais Practitioner and will be commencing training as a Sensory Awareness Leader in the autumn of 2025.
What I Offer
Parents & Carers:
Holding the Balance - online workshop series for parents (coming soon!)
Welcoming the Unknown - online workshop series for expectant parents (coming soon!)
Early Years Professionals:
Workshops & CPD for nurseries and settings
Experiential learning & observation
Mentoring for authentic caregiving
All sessions are grounded in respect, self-reflection, and the child’s natural rhythms.
Current Work
I am a Registered Childminder, working alongside families to deliver home-based family and childcare near Bristol - a new model of care for the whole family.
I currently chair Pikler UK, where we support professionals and parents through CPD, workshops and training inspired by the Pikler® approach.
My new online offerings for parents are coming soon—sign up to my newsletter to hear first.
Articles & Writing
Explore my writing in:
- JUNO Magazine - a natural approach to family life and parenting
- Early Years Educator journal
- My Blog
Topics include respectful boundaries, inner work, free movement and supporting co-operation without coercion.
Let’s Connect
Got questions? Ready to join a course or request a CPD session?
Visit the FAQs or head to the Contact page—I’d love to hear from you.
“The group is the highlight of my week, how often in our busy lives as parents do we have an opportunity to sit back and observe our children. I have learnt a huge amount from Rachel and other parents in the group and believe I am a more thoughtful parent as a result.”