According to Cleveland Clinic ,gentle parenting is a style of parenting that “relies on empathy, understanding and respect”.
The goal of gentle parenting is to raise confident, independent and happy children through empathy, respect and understanding, and setting healthy boundaries. This parenting style focuses largely on age-appropriate development.
Cleveland Clinic
Per plenty of studies and research, medical professionals agree that gentle parenting is extremely beneficial. It is considered one of the best styles to use as a parent. But…gentle parenting is hard, at least for me.
Gentle Parenting Is Hard
For me, it’s hard because I don’t always have the patience for it. Some days are just harder parenting days than others. There are times that my daughter is extra fussy, extra clingy, and extra challenging. As a single mom, there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to breathe let alone breathe by myself.
Also, I wasn’t raised on gentle parenting. While I am sure this style of parenting has always existed, it wasn’t really practiced in my household as a kid. “Do as I say and not as I do” is the best way in which to describe it. Unlearning what I’ve grown up with is challenging.
Getting others to use gentle parenting while engaging with my daughter is equally as challenging. Pushback has happened. Outright refusal has occurred. Doubt that this type of parenting works or let alone is even possible has been voiced. It is discouraging at times to say the least.
Being the best gentle parent I can be
Being a gentle parent right now is hard. However, I don’t believe I will always feel this way. Like learning anything new this will take time.I have some much to learn and unlearn all at the same time. But I am going to be kind, gentle, and patient as much as possible. I am going to apologize and grow from my mistakes. Despite the challenges, I will continue to work at being the best gentle parent I can be.
