Meet the Mom – Loren Klein

Name: Loren Klein

Where did you grow up: 

I grew up in Manhattan. Loved it and never thought I’d leave. Little did I know Palm Beach was waiting!

Town you live in now: 

I live in El Cid in West Palm Beach.

Why you love living there: 

So many reasons- the weather, the beach, the beautiful town, our wonderful school, the historic homes, the active lifestyle! Most of all, I love the small town feel and the community of dynamic families. I feel so fortunate to have friends who are like family.

Tell me about your kids: 

I have three amazing kids – aged 6, 4 and 11 months- who have taught me to love like I never knew I could and view the world with even more wonder. My eldest is an independent thinker with an intrinsic sense of compassion and determination. Wise beyond her years, we can’t get anything by her. My son melts my heart with his snuggles, love of his friends and natural comedy. My baby girl is nearly one and I can’t get enough of her smiles, babbles, and natural rhythm.

Favorite things to do with the kids locally: 

We love to spend time outdoors at the beach, at the rec center and on the trail. We play tennis, ride bikes, and scoot. Our favorite days include time with friends around the pool with music and good food.

What’s your ‘day job’?  How did you get started with it?

I am the founder of ZenHippo- launching this fall! We curate programs for new/expecting parents, caregivers, babies and toddlers. Our monthly talks feature local experts in parenting and maternal wellness. Our weekly classes at Pan’s Garden and the Ann Norton Sculpture Garden are facilitated by early childhood specialists and designed to help littles ones meet developmental milestones through mindful play. Our goal is to provide families with the community, education and engagements that are critical during this transformational life phase.

I am a social worker and educator with over 15 years of experience working with children and families. When I had my third baby – my first in Palm Beach County- I realized that there was a gap, and I knew I had the skills to fill it!

What is your best parenting advice.  Lay it on us.

Seek out and welcome support and friendship. I know it’s cliché but it really does take a village. I wanted to do everything myself with my first. I realized that this was lonely and unsustainable. Having a network of support and genuine friendships makes parenting so much more joyful and so much less challenging.

What do you do for self care?

Friendships, nutritious food and time outdoors feed my soul most. So for self-care I take long walks with friends and cook creative meals for family. I also love to read, watch reality tv (guilty pleasure!), travel and dine out.

Karaoke – what are you singing?

Something my mom played on repeat when I was a kid – “Love and Happiness” by Al Green – a song that reminds me of what’s most important in life.

Anything else you want to share?

I’d love to hear about the support and resources other families are looking for as they navigate pregnancy and the early years of parenting. Email me! Loren@wearezenhippo.com