Progressive Media Forum

 Modern Parenting

In this era of technology, it is time to challenge the old thought of parenting that elevates obedience over learning. Modern parenting depends more on the natural process of love and mutual understanding between you and your children with a noble purpose. It is the strength of our connection that determines the level of influence we have over our children.

Traditional discipline techniques destroy connection and affection. They turn our homes into battlegrounds. Family members who believe that parenting is about disciplining may suggest that you should always dictate terms with your kids.

But, if we want to raise kind, compassionate and cooperative children, there is simply no place for traditional discipline techniques. No warnings. No consequences. No threats. No punishments. No bribes.

Modern parenting emphasises us to learn the difference between leading and dictating, between enlightening and forcing, between connecting and compelling. Try to practice the following tips to be a modern parent. 

1. Stop underestimating your child

Every child in this world is born a genius. Every kid is gifted with some talent. Identify your child’s talent. Don’t expect your child to understand you! Instead, understand your child and give what he wants the best!

2. Say No to comparison

Do not compare your child with anyone because no two individuals in this world are born with the same intelligence, same opinion, same skills etc. Invest time and energy to identify your child’s talent, interests, tastes, opinions and grow them. Make sure the child shines in that particular area with your support and encouragement. 

3. Lead by deeds

Do not forget that the child’s first school is the parent's lap. For example, if parents are fighting often, then definitely the child will be rude and he can not learn empathy. The way you behave, the way you live at home, your choices, your selection, your tastes etc everything will be under the observation of your children. If you don’t love them – don’t expect love from them. If you are lazy – don’t expect them to be active. 

4. Shower unconditional love

As simplistic as it may sound, our relationship with our kids is nested in unconditional love. Unconditional love nurtures the child and encourages him to feel secure in any environment. It provides the child with sufficient space to learn by experiencing failures. It infuses self-confidence in the child. It helps him to learn from mistakes and do the needed course corrections.

Remember the words of  Maya Angelou : 

“People will forget the things you do, and people will forget the things you say. But people will never forget how you made them feel.”