Discussions were spurred by a recent release of a book on a specific parenting style. The author claims to have the best parenting strategy: boasting on extreme strict rules of no play dates, tv time, or sleepovers as a few examples. It appears that she ties this in with specific cultures, playing up to stereotypes. Smart marketing strategy –no doubt she’ll sell lots of books with this controversy she’s sparked.
As based from Random House dictionary: Stereotype: in sociology: a simplified and standardized conception or image invested with special meaning and held in common by members of a group: The cowboy and Indian are American stereotypes.
Hmmm, interesting. I have not read the book and most likely will not due to my time constraints – however I will take 10 minutes to share my thoughts on the subject of parenting.
Growing up, I watched a lot of tv. We didn’t have sleep overs only because that was not popular in our community of tight quarters of the Lower East Side. I was never required to have a grade no less than an A; however I did do well on my own accord. When I pursued an education in art – not once did my parents discourage me. As my retail career path evolved – my parents did not steer me in any other profession. They recognized my sense of happiness and well being was their goal. Did they share my successes with friends and family? Of course they did – as any proud parent would – however it was a happiness and celebration after I sought my own decisions and paths – not a result of pressing strict rules upon me. That’s the difference. They didn’t press, they inspired. This is the same parenting style I’ve adopted.
Academic success and competitiveness has its advantages but let’s not fool ourselves to think that’s the end all answer to life. Knowledge is useless unless it’s applied, and wisdom comes through only experience. Learning from one’s own experience based on one’s own decisions builds character and emotional intelligence. Part of parenting is learning to inspire, trust and guide your children to pursue their idea of a successful life. This will ensure they live their life for themselves and for the right reasons; not to beat out a competition, appease harsh expectations of parents or because someone’s watching.
Maybe the true reason for accomplishment should be for the sheer enjoyment of it and not based on ego or fear. That’s just my philosophy and I am an American Chinese mom.
As based from Random House dictionary: Stereotype: in sociology: a simplified and standardized conception or image invested with special meaning and held in common by members of a group: The cowboy and Indian are American stereotypes.
Hmmm, interesting. I have not read the book and most likely will not due to my time constraints – however I will take 10 minutes to share my thoughts on the subject of parenting.
Growing up, I watched a lot of tv. We didn’t have sleep overs only because that was not popular in our community of tight quarters of the Lower East Side. I was never required to have a grade no less than an A; however I did do well on my own accord. When I pursued an education in art – not once did my parents discourage me. As my retail career path evolved – my parents did not steer me in any other profession. They recognized my sense of happiness and well being was their goal. Did they share my successes with friends and family? Of course they did – as any proud parent would – however it was a happiness and celebration after I sought my own decisions and paths – not a result of pressing strict rules upon me. That’s the difference. They didn’t press, they inspired. This is the same parenting style I’ve adopted.
Academic success and competitiveness has its advantages but let’s not fool ourselves to think that’s the end all answer to life. Knowledge is useless unless it’s applied, and wisdom comes through only experience. Learning from one’s own experience based on one’s own decisions builds character and emotional intelligence. Part of parenting is learning to inspire, trust and guide your children to pursue their idea of a successful life. This will ensure they live their life for themselves and for the right reasons; not to beat out a competition, appease harsh expectations of parents or because someone’s watching.
Maybe the true reason for accomplishment should be for the sheer enjoyment of it and not based on ego or fear. That’s just my philosophy and I am an American Chinese mom.
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