Lauren Eaton Spencer struggles with the gentle parenting approach as it often leads to challenges like getting her son to wear certain clothes and tackle daily tasks like choosing socks. Researchers have found that a significant number of gentle parents face burnout and self-doubt due to the pressure to meet parenting standards. While the gentle parenting movement gained popularity during the pandemic, it is now being criticized for promoting unrealistic expectations and causing harm.
Some experts are now turning their attention to the concept of lighthouse parenting, which aims to strike a balance between being overprotective and overindulgent. Lighthouse parenting emphasizes being a stable force in a child’s life while setting clear boundaries and providing guidance. Proponents of lighthouse parenting believe it is a proven approach that can lead to positive outcomes for children.
In contrast to the concepts of gentle and lighthouse parenting, authoritative parenting, which emphasizes a balance of expectations, discipline, and affection, has been shown to create confident and successful children. Parenting experts are calling for a return to trusting parental intuition and relying less on external advice and social media influences.
Ultimately, parents are encouraged to trust themselves and their innate abilities rather than feeling pressured to adhere to specific parenting styles or ideologies. While parenting can be challenging, experts believe that parents have the wisdom within them to raise their children effectively and successfully without constantly seeking external guidance.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com