How do You Define Good Parenting?

Have you ever asked yourself … “Am I a good parent?” What was your answer?

Yes? No? Maybe? Sometimes? Not sure?

Most parents know raising another human being is frustrating, stressful, and downright hard at times.
 
And, if the foundation of a good relationship is lacking, the teen will never trust the parent, be open, or listen to what the parent has to say. Unless, the teenager senses the parent values and respects them.

Good parenting can also mean refining the relationship so both the parent and teen can discuss expectations and co-create. This is where trust is built and effective communication takes place.

One parent I spoke to said, “Good parenting means expecting that children will change, almost on a daily basis. But the essence of who they are really never changes. The best advice for parents is to expect kids to achieve great things, while expecting they may experience spectacular failure.

Loving kids through these challenging times is what good parenting is all about”.

Alfie Kohn, an American author and lecturer who has explored a number of topics in education, parenting, and human behavior says, “Children are more likely to be respectful when important adults in their lives respect them. They are more likely to care about others if they know they are cared about”.

So, how do you define good parenting?