If you have children or grandchildren under 8 years old, you’ve more than likely heard of the rise of gentle parenting. Met with mixed reviews, feelings and feedback, this parenting trend has generated a large buzz.
But is this nurturing approach the parenting gold standard — or a recipe for raising emotionally fragile, mini dictators?
Let’s unpack the rise of gentle parenting with a level head and a warm heart (and maybe a little caffeine, if you’ve been gentle-parenting all week).
Many influencers and parenting experts share the concepts, skills and effects of gentle parenting, but the term was thought to be originally coined and popularized by author Sarah Ockwell-Smith. Gentle parenting emphasizes empathy, respect, connection and boundaries without punishment. The idea isn’t to let kids rule the roost, but to guide them with calm consistency and emotional support.
Think less, “Because I said so,” and more, “Let’s talk about why bedtime matters.” (Cue the collective sigh of every parent just trying to get their kid in pajamas before 9 p.m.)