Parenting is dynamic. It’s a journey that unfolds as each parent and child grows together for the rest of their lives. While no textbook neatly outlines all we need to do as parents, parenting trends have made their presence known over the past 20 years. Why? Parents want to know and do better. Behavioural psychologists and experts have realised that we can learn more when undertaking the most critical job in the world.ย
Granted, every parenting trend has pros and cons, but having a holistic view of these trends means that you, mom and dad, can use what works for you and your family. It means you can make informed decisions on the lessons each parenting trend offers and then change it if needed. Parenting evolves as you and your little one do. In this article, we turn the spotlight to Evergreen Parenting.ย
What is Evergreen Parenting
It’s really a parenting philosophy that emphasises a long-term, holistic approach to raising children. Like evergreen trees remain vibrant throughout the year, this term alludes to creating an enduring foundation for your children that will essentially guide them for the rest of their lives. It also refers to establishing a life-long, healthy relationship with your children.ย
This approach focuses on developing essential life skills, values, and character traits that are relevant in any situation.ย ย
The benefits of evergreen parenting are numerous and long-lasting. Here are some of the most significant advantages of this approach:
- Empowers children to become independent problem solvers. Evergreen parenting encourages children to take responsibility for their actions and choices. It teaches children to identify problems, evaluate options, and make informed decisions. This approach teaches children that mistakes are mistakes and that they should not tie their identity to them. It teaches them that they can still feel safe when making mistakes and then learn from them.ย ย
- Promotes healthy self-esteem and resilience. Evergreen parenting emphasises positive reinforcement and building healthy self-esteem. It encourages parents to praise their children’s effort and progress rather than simply focusing on outcomes. In this instance, children are not valued purely because they excel or are good: they learn that they are loved and valued for who they are, which is enough.ย ย
- Fosters open communication and strong relationships. Evergreen parenting emphasises the importance of open communication and building strong relationships between parents and children. In this instance, you create a safe and supportive environment for your children. You encourage them to identify and discuss their feelings. It also refers to feeling safe, even when tough conversations need to be had or when children need to take responsibility for their wrong decisions. Once again, this cultivates trust, strengthening the parent-child bond.ย
- Evergreen parenting recognises that learning is a lifelong process that extends beyond the classroom. As parents, you hold the keys to inculcating your children’s love of learning. This can be done by providing opportunities for your children to explore their interests and supporting them when they want to learn new skills. This is linked to helping children develop a growth mindset as they realise that challenges are growth opportunities.
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- Evergreen parenting focuses on developing essential life skills relevant to any situation, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and empathy. These are skills that are required in school, work and throughout life. In helping them hone these skills, they become well-rounded individuals, empowered to thrive in any given environment.ย
- One of the aspects we love is that this parenting approach encourages children to be responsible, active and contributing members of society. It encourages parents to instil values such as empathy, compassion, and social responsibility in their children and to teach them to participate in their communities actively. This helps children develop a sense of purpose and belonging and prepares them to be responsible and engaged citizens as they grow older.
As you read through these benefits and what this parenting approach entails, there is a sense of awareness. There is an apparent effort to grow, take responsibility and recognise your place in the family and your community as you grow to know and love yourself well.ย
