How many of you feel that parenting has become complicated in modern times? Our parents made
it look so simple or maybe they knew the right tricks. But then our parents didn’t have to face issues
such as bullying, depression, cyber addiction, body shaming, teen pregnancy, sexual orientation etc.
Today’s parents have to be a lot more conscious in raising children and preparing them for the
future apart from focusing on good education and good behaviour.
That’s why the concept of positive parenting is gaining importance. Let’s tell you more about it!
What is Positive Parenting?
Positive parenting is an approach where parents are sensitive to children’s needs and make them
feel valued. It is based on mutual trust and respect. It emphasises using positive techniques to do
the parenting right.
Positive parenting is known to strengthen the parent-child relationship and reduce the instances of
negative behaviour. It also contributes to the better physical, mental and emotional well-being of
children.
What are Positive Parenting Strategies?
Parenting is no mean feat because it doesn’t come with a manual. But, positive parenting can make
it a bit easier for you with the following strategies:
Understand Children’s Needs
Food, shelter, clothes and education are the basic needs of children. However, are you able to
understand what do they really need? To understand your children’s needs, you have to listen to
them and spend time with them. Then, you will come to what fulfils their emotional needs and what
makes them happy.
Build Trust
There might have been times when you have broken your children’s trust. For example, your child
must have asked you to keep an innocent secret but you revealed it to someone. You mocked your
child in front of friends or teachers. You made a promise but didn’t keep it. Such instances shake the
foundation of mutual trust between parents and children.
Maintain Daily Communication
Today’s lifestyle is so hectic that family members rarely get time to sit and have in-depth, meaningful
conversations. However, the concept of positive parenting says that you have to take out time to
talk to your children every day. It could be over meals or going for a walk. You have to make them
feel that you have their back no matter what and they can come and talk to you anytime they feel.
Refrain from Using Punishment
Sometimes, punishment seems the right way to discipline a child. However, make sure that this
punishment should be gentle and a way to set boundaries for children. There should be no space for
physical punishment or else it will leave a long-lasting adverse impact on children.
Appreciate Your Children
More than often, parents tend to judge their children, start listing their bad traits or compare them
to other children. This lowers your children’s self-esteem and they begin to undermine their worth
and talent. Hence, you must appreciate your children as often as you can and celebrate their wins,
no matter how small or big.
We hope that this positive parenting guide has helped you to understand your parenting technique
and children better.
