Being a parent is probably the toughest job in the world. It involves making many sacrifices, being a role model, and teaching kids the difference between right and wrong. Recently, educationist Neerja Birla tweeted about ‘Panda Parenting’ and initiated a discussion on the different styles of parenting people employ while raising their little ones.
The Indian Express explains that this style of parenting involves gently guiding kids without forcing them to do anything. This enables them to be self-sufficient, take responsibility, and learn by doing.
Have you heard of #PandaParenting? It's a parenting style that allows kids the freedom to make their own decisions & learn the hard way, with parents stepping in only when absolutely required; something that resonates strongly with me. What's your preferred style of parenting?
— Neerja Birla (@NeerjaBirla) September 19, 2020
Some people said they had adopted this liberal form of parenting while others cautioned that it might be a little risky. Parents also discussed other styles like tiger parenting, elephant parenting, authoritative parenting, and helicopter parenting. Take a look.
Tiger parents are strict and push their kids to be academic achievers, reports The Sun.
I love this term #pandaparenting . Thanks for legimitising the opposite of the #tigermom . My esteem just went up in my own eyes. I used to call myself the clueless mother 😂🤣😂 @KiranManral #theteenagerK
— Deepali Naair (@deepalinaair) September 19, 2020
According to ABC News, elephant parents are nurturing, encouraging, and put emphasis on emotional protection.
— Ancy (@the_Ancy) September 19, 2020
Adapting with time and evolving .
For we have adapted from stone age to coming Artificial intelligence age. So be it.Ready to fly to Mars.— Avinashi Singh (@AvinashiSingh2) September 19, 2020
Proud of my parents…who allowed me to pursue my dreams…to be a sportsperson & an actor. Toughest call – what parenting it is called… don't know but yes whenever needed i see them as a strong support & wall behind me…😊
— Tanishka Mihi Varma (@tanishkamihiii) September 20, 2020
Totally understand and glad to realise that I have been a panda parent so far. No regrets and very glad I've been one. Thank you for sharing the terminology. 🐹
— Aarti K (@aartikudva) September 19, 2020
Authoritative parents aim to strike a healthy balance between discipline and support.
My preferred style of parenting – 'Authoritative'.
It encourages open discussion/dialogue that allows for feedback and collaboration. Having reasonable expectations and high on responsiveness. #ParentCoach
Although flexible as situation demands 🙂— Vandana Singh (@Singh_Vandana) September 19, 2020
Trying hard to do that with my young ones. Definitely the opposite of what my parents did with me!!
— Naval Chopra (@NavalChopraX) September 19, 2020
It sounds exciting but bit risky
— Arun Daga (@ArunDaga64) September 19, 2020
Very liberal and thoughtful.
— siddarthmohta (@siddarthmohta) September 20, 2020
Helicopter parents “hover” around their kids and are over-involved in their life and decision-making.
Indians prefer helicopter parenting…
— Dev Chatterjee (@ParagonWorli18) September 19, 2020
What age should this start? Left to my 5 year old, she ll want to spend all her days on YouTube
— SIDDHARTH NARULA (@sidatdubai) September 19, 2020
I've heard about right parenting. It's about training you kids to become leaders
— Afrasiab Khan (@Afrasia99904175) September 19, 2020
A parallel from medical practice is watchful expectancy and masterly inactivity, if I am not mistaken!
— Dr. Sathya Prakash, MD (@DrSathyaPrakas1) September 19, 2020
Do you follow a particular parenting style or does it change depending on the situation?