Guide to Gentle Parenting – Gentle Parenting is one of the most trending parenting topics out there, but what exactly is it? Learn about the goal of gentle parenting and how to incorporate it with your kids right here on Newsymom!
This informational campaign comes to you in partnership with the Stark County Community Action Agency.
Maybe you’ve seen tons of videos on TikTok about the topic, passed by books at your local library or bookstore, or overheard someone you know talking about Gentle Parenting. It’s a hot topic in the world of media. You might be hearing about all these different points of view, some positive and some negative.
So, what IS Gentle Parenting and how would someone parent in this style?
What Is Gentle Parenting?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the goal of gentle parenting is to “raise confident, independent and happy children through empathy, respect and understanding, and setting healthy boundaries.” With this parenting style, it focuses on age-appropriate development.
Traditionally in parenting, we’ve used the style of punishment and reward. Do something bad, get a punishment. Do something good, receive a reward. Gentle Parenting helps your child bring self-awareness so they can understand their behavior and emotions.
Gentle Parenting In Action
Let’s see an example of Traditional vs. Gentle Parenting in action:
Scenario:
It’s been a rough morning. Everyone’s running late and you need to get the kids to school so you can get to work. However, your child is throwing a temper tantrum as you’re trying to get everyone out the door.
Traditional Parenting:
You respond to their behavior: “Stop it! Put on your shoes and GET OUT of the house. You’re being ridiculous! Just WAIT until we get back home!”
Traditional parenting shows there’s a punishment for not doing as you say. Let’s do the same response with Gentle Parenting.
Gentle Parenting:
You respond by taking a breath, getting down to their level to look at them, and then respond: “When you aren’t ready on time, it hurts my feelings and makes me nervous because I need to get to work on time. Why are you having a rough time this morning?”
With Gentle Parenting, you empathize with your child and give them the space needed to process their emotions and hold themselves accountable. It seems easier said than done, but taking a breath to regulate your own emotions allows you to coach your child through the emotions they can’t quite give a name to yet!
This parenting thing is hard, but motherhood doesn’t have to seem impossible! The SCCAA Community Actions Pathway HUB is an available resource for all pregnant and new mothers. Reach out to them when you need a helping hand! For more information, please contact the Community Action Pathways HUB at 330.454.1676 ext. 153.
Melissa Klatt
Reporting
