A happy family

A happy family

July 2010

By Kamalini Natesan

One invaluable parenting tip that readers practise

Parenting is like rocket science, an intricate art which can not work on rigid rules as each child is individual. However, the only principle which I have used to bring up my boys (now married) is that I always imagined myself in their place and done what I would have expected from my parents. Listen to your inner voice and love them selflessly without expectations is the most valuable parenting tip.
CHITRA VASHISHT, CHANDIMANDIR

The only parenting tip which we practice is that we do not give any tips. Children are intelligent and competent to imbibe and learn from their parents – more so when no tips are forthcoming. What matters is our conduct. It’s much easier to give advice on this topic than follow it. One must never approach children with a preaching attitude.
DIWAKAR ADEEB, VIA EMAIL

The biggest challenge our society faces today is the eroding ethical and moral value system. I’ve always believed that the process of instilling the values of integrity, compassion, honesty, and respect in a child starts right at the time of conception. Today’s children watch parental behaviour closely. I joined an organisation doing charitable activities and take my five-year-old along to make him see the realities of life. Instead of being a self-absorbed parent, I am trying to lead my son by example.
PRASHANT GARG, NEW DELHI

One of the most difficult jobs today is parenting. Children are not very good at listening to their elders or parents, but they never fail to imitate parents/elders at home. Home is the first teaching centre. My invaluable parenting tip is practice, rather than preach, what you expect from your children. I am happy to share that my 12-year-old daughter copies my schedules, routine, ideas and everything that I do.
ARUNA KAMATH, BANGALORE

The child inherits great many virtues and values and also imbibes from the environment around. One should have complete faith in one’s child and act only as a facilitator and create the right environment for him to develop in, and not as a decision maker. This helps to bring out the child’s creativity and builds confidence. I feel that if the child is left free to develop with minimum but subtle guidance here and there, the development is complete. The child also learns to respect the parents, becomes more responsible and responsive and evolves into a more complete person.
SHAKTI ADEEB, VIA EMAIL