Parenting means facing challenges and making big decisions. One of the biggest questions confronted by parents – “How best to raise my child?” Parenting styles may vary, but authoritative parenting style is said to be among the greats. It is a style that seeks a balance between achieving warmth, guidance, and clear rules and expectations. In this blog, we explore what authoritative parenting entails, its benefits, and how to practice it daily.
What Is the Authoritative Parenting Style?
Authoritative parenting is a style of parenting in which some control is exerted by the parents through established clear rules while nurturing love and support. It differs from authoritarian and controlling styles, which follow strict rules, while permissive parents lean towards a total lack of structure and even permission-giving. The idea is for the parents to discover a balance between commitment and demands. The following are several crucial dimensions of authoritative parenting style:
Clear Expectations: Parents should set rules along with their reasoning for why they are important.
Open Communication: Kids are urged to state their views and feelings.
Warm and Supportive: Parenting behavior manifests in parental warmth, encouragement, and emotional support.
Reasonable Discipline: Consequences are applied when necessary but fairly and with understanding.
Benefits of Authoritative Parenting
There are numerous advantages of an authoritative parenting style for both children and parents alike.
Builds Confidence and Independence
Children being raised under an authoritative parenting style learn their decision-making and responsibility. They walk with confidence, pride, and belonging, knowing that their parents follow them in letting these children weigh their own opinions.
Better Communication Skills and More
Authoritative parents encourage open discussion; thus, children’s communication skills develop in expressing emotions, resolving conflicts, and forming relationships.
There are more instances where the child behaves well when one or both parents give a reason for the rule. The child respects parents not through fear but through being heard and valued.
It supports emotional health since children with knitted emotional well-being live and die in a loving, structured environment and have better control over their emotions. Because they feel safe and secure in the support of their family, anxiety and aggressive behavior are less about them.
Children know they can talk to Mom and Dad about anything. And that creates a strong bond that lasts a lifetime.
How to Practice Authoritative Parenting Style
Decide on Clear and Just Rules
Children feel secure when rules are set, but they need to have an understanding of them. Instead of “Because I said so,” give a clear explanation.
Do not say:
“No more screen time!”
Instead, say: “Too much screen time can hurt your eyes. Let’s take a break and do something fun together.”
Wind Up Listening to What Your Child Has to Say
Also, help your child express his or her opinion. If he or she is doing something wrong, let the child express his or her reasoning before punishment. This teaches your child how to solve problems and take responsibility.
Authoritative Parenting Style Says, Love Should Be Firm
Love and discipline should be present together. When a child commits a mistake, it may help to establish fair consequences but always ensure they feel through the consequences that you love them.
For example:
“I understand you were upset, but hitting is not okay. Next time, use your words to express your feelings.”
Good Behavior Should Be Praised
Children need to be encouraged. Whenever they do something nice, appreciate their attempts. This builds self-esteem and motivation.
For instance
“I’m so proud of you for helping your younger sibling! That was very kind of you.”
Be attuned to the actions of one‘s parents.
Children learn by imitation. So one must show the way of handling the situation calmly and respectfully. If one wants a patient, kind, and responsible child, be one themselves.
Challenges and Tips to Overcome
Authoritative parenting style does have its fair share of challenges. Here are the ways to handle them:
Rule-breaking: Be patient and calmly remind your child of the rules. Give them as many choices as possible to provide a sense of control.
If you lose your calm: Take a deep breath. No one is perfect. If you lose your self-control, you can apologize to your child.
If your child makes comparisons: Say that no two families have the same rules, and your rules are for their safety and happiness.
It is a balance between being warm and being firm, supportive and punitive. The authoritative parenting style prepares children to become responsible, confident, and kind persons.
Although no single parenting style can be perfect, an authoritative parenting style will help you raise a good child and sustain a good relationship with him.
