Parenting

     parenting refers to the rearing of a child or children, specifically to the love, care and guidance given to the child. Parenting comes in many different forms. Some of the most common approaches to parenting are the following, authoritarian, permissive, indifferent and authoritative. The authoritarian style of parenting states that instant obedience and strict conformity should be followed without question, and accepted without complaint. Independent behavior is not encouraged at all, and the child’s autonomous nature is discouraged from being displayed. There is little to no discussion between parent and child over what is right and wrong, as the parent has the only and ultimate say. Permissive parenting which is also known as indulgent parenting is based on the theory that the child should be allowed freedom to express themselves how they see fit. The parent views themselves as a resource if you will, that the child can access if they wish to, but does not interfere in the actions that the child wishes to take. A permissive parent holds the belief that by trying to guide a child, you are exerting undue control that may harm the child’s development. An indifferent parent is of the belief that child rearing is a waste of their time and energy, and therefore works hard to spend as little effort raising the child as possible. The indifferent parenting home is solely geared toward the interests of the parent. In the authoritative home, the parents have high standards of behavior, but set the standards as to what is age appropriate. Authoritative parents take great pains to deal with issues in a rational, calm manner, and spend time listening and hearing how the child feels. 
     Oftentimes, parents will seek out some help and guidance when they have questions about their child rearing. Most of these questions can be answered and helpful advice given, in parenting classes. Parenting classes are designed to give parents an overview of what parents both new and ones with older children can expect as they raise their children. Skills can be taught such as reflective listening, how to use positive communication with verbally engaging with your child, and how to exhibit, warmth, consistency and empathy when engaging with your children. Finding a parenting is not difficult, as they are offered in many local hospitals, schools and by various private organizations.
     When looking for support as a parent, it is important to remember that you are not the only parent that is facing, or has faced some difficulty when raising children. Parental support can often be found in parenting classes, or workshops aimed at parents of age specific children. The goal of these workshops is to aid in preventing child abuse, helping to reduce stress levels within the home by working alongside the child’s teachers, parents and others who interact with the child or children daily, and strengthen families by teaching very effective methods of discipline balanced with listening and encouragement. Parenting is not always an easy task, and the support is out there for those who seek it out.