Parenting today versus 40 years ago

Being a parent is probably the hardest thing in the world. The hardest in the sense that you are completely responsible for the kind of person you grow up to be. What kind of environment a child grows up in, what he or she sees at home, and what kind of writing he or she hears will shape the rest of his or her life. Of course, children are already born with a certain amount of personality traits, but the direction in which those personality traits take, whether they are reinforced or suppressed, is always the responsibility of the parents and the immediate environment in which the child is raised.

Thus, you have much power in your hands.

In the past, children\’s education was more rigorous. Children were seen as little beings who didn\’t know anything yet, so they had to obey their parents, not talk back, and follow them. There were punishments for disobedience, usually in the form of punishment.

Modern parents, however, are trying a different approach. They listen to their children, respect them, and let them decide. Moms and dads read books at night to learn what their children\’s brains are ripe for and what they are not. They cuddle a lot with their children and encourage their strengths. If things go wrong, don\’t shame or beat them.

In contrast, some say that today\’s children jump on their parents\’ heads and misbehave. They don\’t listen and do what they want. As with anything, the optimal path lies somewhere in the middle. Give the children space, but respect boundaries. Anyway, any effort is appreciated, so if you want to be a respectful parent, read how:

• Don\’t take it personally if your children disagree. Teach your child to welcome different opinions and to assert them.
• Raise your children lovingly and yet consistently.
• Accept mistakes and failures as a natural part of the journey. They happen to everyone in life.
• Love your children unconditionally, regardless of what they may or may not have done to offend you now.
• Support your children\’s own desires. Let him express his desires. He knows that he does not need to be ashamed of it and that he will not be swept away soon.
• Support the children on their own journey. It is not your path, but theirs.