"Parenting," even though an unqualified job in a resumé, is still a difficult job. Experts have named different types of parenting. One of these is conscious parenting.
With all the tips for successful parenting, parents sometimes feel too overwhelmed on what to do next.
Conscious parenting is not the type of parenting that would encourage you to abandon all the things that you initially chose to do as a parent.
What does conscious parenting mean?
It is the kind of parenting that asks parents to be mindful. This step is following parents' shift on the kids' needs.
Conscious parenting means parents do not "fix" their child. Instead, they focus on themselves.
In this type of parenting, parents see their children as independent beings who are continually developing. The children are the ones who become instruments in the parents' journey to become self-aware.
What does conscious parenting consist?
According to Shefali Tsabary, a clinical psychologist from New York, there are many elements to conscious parenting. Here are some of those:
- Parenting should be two-way traffic. In as much as parents help their children learn, parents are also supposed to learn from their children.
- In conscious parenting, there should be no desires, attachments, and ego in parents.
- Positive reinforcement should be used when there are issues with consequences. That also includes setting boundaries for children.
What does conscious parenting contribute to parents and children?
As parents, every step that a child takes is important. Although some people say that who the children become is not a reflection of the parent, it is still essential for parents to consider the welfare of their children. However, conscious parenting sets aside most of what parenting practices.
On the other hand, this type of parenting provides several benefits, not only to parents but also to children. Here are some of these benefits:
- Improved communication. Through conscious parenting, both parents and children are believed to exhibit the use of a more respectful language. Because this parenting holds children accountable in teaching parents, children get a sense of respect that helps kids communicate confidently with parents more often.
- Reduce anxiety and stress. As parents follow mindfulness, it helps them relax and develop a longer attention span. In the long run, parents are also able to reduce some age-related problems.
- Improved cognition. As parents communicate and engage with their children, it also suggests that this leads to advanced development in children.
Experts also say that there could be drawbacks in using conscious parenting. Parents who prefer direct solutions to issues might not find this type of parenting as useful. Because conscious parenting makes room for children to make mistakes, it would take time and be too much for some parents. Besides, one specific parenting will not fit all parents.
