The Changing Face of Parenting: A Grandparent's View
Parenting has changed dramatically in today's busy world. Grandparents, having been through parenting themselves, cannot help but wonder about the new ways of bringing up children. They find themselves comparing their children's parenting styles with their own.
A Change in Values and Priorities
Grandparents remember the days when parenting was simpler. Children were disciplined, and they were made to obey without any argument. But with the times changing, parenting has evolved as well. Now parents value the emotional well-being of their children and encourage them to share their feelings and opinions.
Though grandparents enjoy the focus on emotional intelligence, they fear at times that the grandchildren are being spoiled. They are afraid that the absence of discipline and limits will translate to entitlement and an attitude of self-importance.
The Influence of Technology on Parenting
The arrival of technology has transformed parenting in both negative and positive ways. On the positive side, technology offers parents an abundance of information and resources to assist them in raising their children. On the negative side, it can lead to dependency and distraction.
Grandparents usually notice that their grandchildren are always stuck to screens, be it a smartphone, tablet, or TV. This can result in physical inactivity, social inabilities, and poor attention span. Contemporary parents, though, might view technology as an inevitable aid for their children's education and growth.
Finding a Balance
Although grandparents will not always have the same idea about modern-day parenting, they do understand that times are changing. They are aware that their children are giving it their all to bring up their grandchildren in a world entirely different from when they were raising their own offspring.
Finally, the secret to effective parenting is striking a balance between discipline and affection, tradition and innovation. By adapting the very best from both realms, parents are able to nurture children who are self-assured, empathetic, and well-prepared to face a changing world.
With their grandmothers looking on, they cannot help but be filled with pride and anticipation of what the future will hold. Whatever differences exist between parenting philosophies, they realize their children are devoted to rearing content, healthy, and well-balanced grandchildren.