Parenting

Becoming a parent is one of the most beautiful and sacred gifts we are given here on this earth. Many people have many different approaches when it comes to parenting but I think that the most important thing to remember is that we need to be unconditional in our parenting style, instead of conditional. Our love for our children should be constant and unwavering no matter what. And they should always know this. They need to know that no matter what they do, they will always be loved. Sometimes parents will withdraw and place feelings of guilt and burden upon their children. I do not agree with this tactic. Parents' goals should be trying to teach children how to get their needs met, instead of trying to meet their needs. 

Children do in fact have several different needs. 

1. Physical Contact & Belonging

2. Power

3. Protection (physical/psychological)

4. Challenge

5. Withdrawal (taking a break)

Some ways that parents can help children get these needs met is to 

1. Offer physical contact freely.

2. Teach children to contribute.

3. Teach assertiveness and forgiveness.

4. Allow age appropriate/situation appropriate choices.

5. Teach kids to take breaks for rejuvenation and relaxation, and then go back to doing hard things.

If we can teach these things to our children, it will be extremely beneficial to our children. They will have great emotional and mental health and be prepared to face the world around them. If you are a parent and want to learn more, some great parenting resources are listed below.

Parenting With Love: Making a Difference in a Day By: Glenn Latham

Unconditional Parenting By: Alfie Kohn