Every parent has a different way of dealing with their kids.
A lot of it either comes from their own experiences as a child or what they hear or learn from others.
While parenting is not as easy as it seems, it is surely one of the best things that can happen in life.
Having said that, a parent-child relationship needs nurturing. Extremes of anything can destroy the bond and may even drift you away from your child.
So, if you really want your children to do well, succeed and at the same time develop a great bond with you, here are some of the parenting styles to avoid and what you should do instead.
1. Unresponsive, uninvolved parenting
Uninvolved or neglectful parenting is when parents tend to turn a blind eye to their children’s needs and wants. Such parents neither listen to their child’s plea for help, nor demand or expect anything from their children. They are indifferent and dismissive and almost do not care about their children’s future. This type of parenting style can take a heavy toll on the child’s mind and his or her future.
2. Helicopter parenting
As opposed to uninvolved parenting, helicopter parenting is the complete opposite. Parents belonging to this parenting style can be over-involved in their child’s life, making sure they do everything perfectly, leaving no space for mistakes or regret. Such parents are also known as “overprotective”. While children who are raised with this parenting technique are extremely loved, they might feel a little overwhelmed with the amount of attention they get. It may also make them entirely dependent on their parents.
3. Rescue parenting
Similar to helicopter parenting, rescuing parents are really helpful, especially towards their kids. Apart from making sure their kids do not make any mistakes, parents belonging to this parenting style do not let their children fight their own battles. This could hamper the way kids deal with problem-ridden situations in the future, especially when they’re adults. That said, they could be more care-free, indifferent and may not take responsibility for their actions.
What to adopt instead?
As a parent, you must prioritize your child’s development at all costs. While listening to their needs and tending to their demands is important, also helping them differentiate between the right and wrong is crucial. Most importantly, help them become responsible adults, let them make their own decisions in life and make sure they know the difference between ‘need’ and ‘want’.