Hey, Dads, you may have heard of gentle parenting and wondered what it is. Our parents had the belt and reprimand when we grew up in our countries. So what is the difference? Gentle parenting, a philosophy that prioritizes empathy, respect, and understanding, is not just a parenting style but a transformative tool that can empower fathers to build positive relationships with their children.
By embracing gentle parenting, you can reshape your fatherhood experience more empathetically, respectfully, and understanding. As immigrant dads, we may see gentle parenting as permissive or that it doesn’t prepare children for the real world. However, gentle parenting is about setting clear boundaries and teaching children how to navigate their emotions, essential life skills. Here are three ways that gentle parenting can be positive:
- Empathy and Validation: In the world of gentle parenting, fathers play a pivotal role. Children often experience intense emotions, and the fathers can actively validate them, making their children feel heard and understood. This doesn’t mean giving in to every tantrum but acknowledging their frustration, anger, or sadness. Dads, your active role in validating your children’s emotions is invaluable and integral to their emotional development. You are the ones who can say things like, “I see you’re upset about not getting that toy,” or “It sounds like you’re feeling frustrated.” Your understanding and validation make your children feel genuinely seen and heard.
- Connection over Correction: Gentle parenting is more about teaching kids through connection than punishment. When a child misbehaves, it’s an opportunity for dads to talk about their feelings and help them find better ways to express themselves. However, it’s important to note that this approach may take more time and patience than traditional methods. Dads can use this time to problem-solve together and develop solutions that work for everyone.
- Quality Time: One of the most rewarding aspects of fatherhood is spending quality time with your children. This is when you can connect, play, and enjoy each other’s company. Reading together, building something together, or just roughhousing can all be great ways to bond and experience the joy and fulfillment of parenting. Here are some resources that you might find helpful:
- The National Center for Fathering: https://fathers.com/
- Ups And Downs: The Fatherhood Stories: Gentle Parenting For Dads. Buy Here
- The Gentle Discipline Book: How to raise co-operative, polite and helpful children: Buy Here
