Talking Parents
Whenever we think about our parents, what comes to mind first?
Our first mentor, our support system, and our foundational pillar. The relationship that a
parent and child share is not only one of blood but also social and emotional.
Directly and indirectly, they need each other. Their bond builds and nurtures the
foundation of their long-lasting relationship. It is crucial to maintain balance in
their relationship. To maintain this balance, they have to understand each other
well.
Everything is evolving with time. So is their relationship with each other too. In
early times, children are afraid of their parents and are expected to do everything
according to their parents’ will. This cycle continues for many generations. But
time has changed now. Before, parents didn’t share a friendly bond with their
children. The parent’s words were orders, and it had to be done no matter what.
The lack of communication is the major reason behind this. Earlier, parents didn’t
understand why it was important to communicate with their children. They were
not even aware of what their children were doing. They believe that sharing
friendly bonds with their children may lower their respect and status.
However, things are changing these days. Now, parents don’t see themselves on
an authoritative throne and want to be on the same level as their children.
Doesn’t it sound great? Modern parents treat their children equally and don’t lord
over them.
Now children find their parents to be their heroes. But back in 50 years, it was not
possible and not acceptable in society. Society changes from time to time. In
today’s world, a good relationship between parents and children is appreciated by
everyone. It is said that it is crucial to have a friendly bond with your children.
This evolving relationship is helping both the parents and children in different
ways. Let’s look at some –
● They both share a great bond and due to this they both have someone with
whom they can share anything
● Reduces the health issues like anxiety and depression
● Promotes a sense of attachment
● Lays the foundation for better social and academic skills
● Helps in the growth of children (mentally, physically, and emotionally)
Indeed, this kind of interaction between parents and children is good in many
ways.
Before, parents didn’t find it important to interact with their children.
However, now it is essential to do so. This regular interaction includes hardships
too. These difficulties can be caused by the generation gap.
What is a generation gap?
Both children and parents belong to different generations, so there is a gap
between them. Due to this, their behaviour, thoughts, and ways of living are far
different from each other. It is a fact that change has come, but the generation
gap still exists in many families.
Here are some of the few causes of the generation gap between parents and
children:
Lack of understanding
As parents and children belong to different generations, this means that they also
hold different views. Their ways of thinking and points of view are not similar in
every situation. A sense of understanding is important, as it will develop a sense of
security and trust in children’s minds.
They will feel that someone is always there
for them. If parents don’t understand their children, then who will?
● Not enough interaction
Lack of interaction was not only a major issue 50 years ago. It is an important
concern in today’s world too. Due to the hustle of this fast-paced world, parents
and children find it hard to find time for each other. Parents are so overloaded
with their work that they can’t make time for their children. By interacting, both
parties can understand each other better.
● Too much screen time
Modernity is everywhere now. We can see inventions and innovations here and
there. Children are so indulged in their mobile phones that they are not aware of
what is going on. A study says that 74 percent of parents confessed that excessive
use of their smartphones is hurting their relationship with their kids. The
unreasonable use of smartphones makes children less responsive and excludes
them from everything.
● Unnecessary expectations
Children are expected to be images of their parents. Sometimes they are forced to
select what their parents did without their consideration. They are obligated to
follow unnecessary trends that their parents followed.
Here are a few tips to help bridge this generation gap –
Talking Parents
● Communicate
Communication is significant in every relationship. It lets us understand each
other better. It should be done daily. It develops understanding and trust.
Communication helps build positive bonds. After knowing each other better, they
can understand each other’s points of view. Communicating in a friendly manner
with your children makes them feel secure.
● Listen
Listening to your children’s desires, thoughts, and opinions is crucial. It lets you
know what your child’s mentality is—whether they are taking things positively or
negatively. Children need someone who can listen to their thoughts or beliefs. It
makes them feel calm and secure. By doing it frequently, they will find it easy to
share anything with their parents.
It will encourage them or motivate them to do so.
● Understand
Indeed, parenting is not easy. It has many ups and downs. But with time, we learn
and grow. Understanding each other lets you know each other’s thoughts. If
parents know what their child wants, it will be easy to handle them or nurture
them. Children need understanding parents who will not suppress them but will
understand them.
● Be open-minded
As a parent, it is important to keep up with time. Parents with a conservative
mindset are hated by their children. Open-minded parents accept things
wholeheartedly. They support their children in every possible way. They don’t pull
their children down, but they always motivate them.
An overview
Being a parent is a juggling act. Be relaxed and calm. Understand what your child
wants and what they desire. Support them whenever it is needed. Always show
them that they are precious to you, no matter what. Happy parenting!