%20SQUARE.png)
Parenting is one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences one can have. Raising a child to be a responsible and happy adult involves various mutual processes that the parent and child must go through together. Although parenting is demanding, it can be a fulfilling experience when we are aware of the reciprocal points to address and how to manage each.
Here are five common but essential reference areas highlighting the mutual crisis points and tips to balance them.
1. Boundaries vs. Freedom:
Setting boundaries for children is one of the most difficult challenges parents face. Children must learn what is and is not acceptable behaviour, and the parent must teach them these boundaries.
Crisis: Setting frequent restrictions can be difficult because as children grow and develop their sense of independence, they will naturally push against these boundaries.
Tip: Parents must strike a balance between being firm and establishing clear boundaries and being flexible and understanding of their child's needs.
2. Communicating vs Listening:
Effective communication is essential to building a strong bond with your child, as it not only allows you to convey your expectations and values but also gives you an insight into what your child is thinking.
Crisis: Communication is two-way, and being patient to listen to your child and understanding their point of view is critical.
Tip: Pause communication after the initial dialogue. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts, and be willing to listen to what they have to say. Mutual communication helps foster understanding, compassion, and respect between parent and child.
3. Active vs Passive Emotions:
Dealing with their child's emotions is another challenge parents face. Children can be highly emotional, and their feelings can shift quickly. Therefore, parents must develop the ability to recognize and respond to their child's emotions in a supportive and understanding manner.
Crisis: Always accommodating a child's emotions can be challenging because parents frequently have their own emotions to deal with.
Tip: Parents must be aware of their own emotions and care for themselves to be present for their children. Self-care and self-awareness are critical for parents to succeed in their role as caregivers for their children.
4. Adherent vs Disputant Model:
Parents help their children understand that setting a positive attitude and cultured behaviour is essential. But children learn from the adults around them, and their primary role models are their parents.
Crisis: Consequently, parents need to model positive behaviour for their children, providing an excellent example of the attitudes and behaviours they expect from their children
Tip: Show your child how to treat others with dignity and respect and accept responsibility for their actions.
5. Presence vs Absence:
Teaching children to value their parents and to be there for them when needed not only helps them grow up into well-rounded adults but also strengthens the familial bond. Children who are taught to value and appreciate their parents have a greater appreciation for their efforts. In the same way, showing children that parents are there for them and actively engaging in activities with them is an integral part of the parenting process
Crisis: Parents must make time for their children even if they are overburdened with work and other responsibilities and foster meaningful relationships with their children
Tip: A good parenting strategy is to set aside a few minutes each day to spend time with the children, listening to them and giving them undivided attention. Quality time between parent and child can take the form of anything from special family meals, participating in a favourite activity together, going for a walk, or simply having a conversation about what's going on in their lives.
In summary, parenting necessitates a bilateral relationship. What we expect of a child is required of the parent in tandem. Children can be aggravating at times, but parents must remember that they are still learning and growing and will only receive and adopt what we ourselves can offer.
Author
Ribi Kenneth
Comments