If you are a parent, sometimes you might feel like you need to get tough to get your point across. Sometimes, you need to use discipline or introduce your child to the reality of actions having consequences. However, some parenting tips that have been used in the past – and still used today in some parts of society – might not pass the ‘good parent’ test, even if they prove to be effective.
Here are some of the most controversial parenting tips that we have come across that might shock you.
The use of tough love
We mentioned it above, but the idea of tough love is taboo in many households. Why would you want to treat your kids like that?
Sometimes, though, strict rules are important for helping your child to realize one thing: they don’t always get what they want. Instilling discipline can be very useful for making your child appreciate that the world does not always dance to its tune. It can create respect for authority figures, too, though most parents use ‘tough love’ in situations where they want to impart an important lesson as opposed to simply putting their foot down.
The ’Kratos’ technique
If you have played the hit video game, God of War, you will be aware of the intriguing dynamics between protagonist Kratos and his son Atreus. They have become ‘memes’ in many walks of life, but many parents believe this kind of parenting works.
You do not become friends with your children. In the eyes of some, it erodes respect and creates it hard to have a genuine level of respect and discipline. When you are friends, it can be hard to scold your child or tell them off. At least, that’s what some think. Personally, I would have hated it if my parents treated me like that, and I would not have the same parent-child relationship that I have today.
Technology bans
Another controversial parenting tip is to minimize or even outright ban the use of tech in the house. Some people see this as presbyterian and outdated. Technology plays a critical part in our personal, professional, and social lives: is growing up a technical Luddite a good thing for any kid? No.
While it is important to regulate so that your child’s development is not hampered or they become reclusive thanks to technology, outright banning tech might not be the best idea. Regulation and guidance about the pitfalls of relying on technology, though, can be a fair compromise.