Did you know that parenting styles need to change as children grow?
There are 4 distinct stages according to our children’s ages and changing needs, in which our parenting approach will determine how we foster a strong bond and connection with our children.
Discipline Years (Ages 1-5)
These are the foundation years of our children’s development. Boundaries have to be set to ensure safety and self control. For example; not sticking their fingers into power sockets or throwing their food. It’s exhausting for parents, but the outcome is that you would have demonstrated the significance of adhering to rules and respecting boundaries.
Teaching Years (5-12)
Your child is growing more independent at this stage. To enable them to better understand the reasons behind the rules you have set, explaining the “why” is crucial. Just saying “No!” will not help them make good choices and form good habits.
Dealing with a Tween at this stage can be particularly challenging. Best to approach with compassion when discipling during this phase. It requires patience and clear communication.
Guiding Years (12-18)
This is the stage when children start making choices. Friends, music, school activities, clothes etc. The role of the parent will become more of a coach, mentor, guide. You need them to trust you. It is necessary to be non-judgmental and objective in order to keep an open channel of conversation with them. They need to feel comfortable confiding in you.
Friendship Years (18 and above)
This is when your child has grown into an adult. What they become is ultimately a reflection of the formation you provided. You hope they will reiterate what you taught them with their own children. You want to share in each others’ experiences just like friends.
Parenting is not always about being authoritative and commanding. It is a complex web of love, patience, firmness, compassion, strictness, trust and faith and our goal is to equip our children to become resilient and trustworthy individuals.
Comments