The Power of Positive Parenting

By: Marwa Mosa

"My daughter was not treated as a human being but as someone who committed a crime, and the only reason was that she loved a man," expressed the grief-stricken mother. These poignant words encapsulate the heart-wrenching true story we are about to explore—a tale that unravels the devastating consequences of familial discord and misguided actions.

Parenting is a very long journey full of joys, challenges, responsibilities, and countless opportunities for growth. In today's modern world which changes very fast, the power of positive parenting has gained increasing recognition. Good parents create a peaceful environment that the child needs to feel happy, comfortable, protected, and loved. This affects the behavior of the kids in the community and helps them act better. Positive parenting emphasizes nurturing, respect, and communication to foster a healthy parent-child relationship and promote the development of well-rounded children.

In a world that extols the power of positive parenting, a tragic narrative unfolds, shedding light on the profound injustices faced by a young woman who tragically fell victim to her own family's careless decisions. "She was the oldest and most beautiful daughter of mine," laments her grieving mother. The story delves into the heart-wrenching details of this young lady's life, emphasizing the importance of parental care and responsibility in making crucial decisions for their children. Set against the backdrop of a time long ago, nearly three decades past, the tale reveals the harrowing fate that befell this radiant woman—a mother of two children in her early twenties, whose life was abruptly taken (may she rest in peace) by her ten-year-old brother. What makes this tragedy even more chilling is the haunting fact that she was denied a proper burial, all because her family discovered her love for another man. "You are not a man if you do not kill her," one of her family members insisted, persuading her father to make a devastating choice.

Another moving story emerges in the wake of the family's sorrow and oppressive atmosphere, shedding light on the desperate steps taken by a relative of the woman in the earlier story. Seeking liberation from a world that made her feel insignificant, she embarked on a quest for solace and freedom, ultimately making the impulsive decision to marry at a tender age. Love, stained by the scars of the past, remained forbidden within her family, a consequence of the heart-wrenching events that unfolded before. Thus, she entered a blind union, choosing a partner without consideration for affection, believing that marriage held the key to her independence. Thereafter, it was not as she had expected it to be. Her partner does not agree with what she says, and he can fight for very useless small issues.

Positive parenting supports children's cognitive development by love for learning and critical thinking skills. Parents can create an environment that encourages exploration, provides intellectual stimulation, and nurtures creativity. Which helps the children to follow their hobbies and be creative in their hobbies. By that, children will always spend time doing what they love in the best way possible for them. Thereafter, kids are not willing to either leave their families or waste their time on bad things such as smoking, because they have better things to do in their free time and they love doing it. This helps the kids for their future as well, which makes them develop some skills that are needed for their future and makes them live a happy life as they feel productive.

In contrast to the heartbreaking stories of tragic family dynamics, it is essential to highlight the transformative power of positive parenting. I would like to share a personal story from my own life during my elementary school days. In grade six, I encountered a challenging situation that tested the bonds between my family, my teachers, and myself.

One of my teachers hated me simply because I consistently achieved higher grades than her daughter. One day, she was slapping me because of my friend's act of stealing her daughter's activity book. It was evident that she sought an excuse to vent her frustration. However, this incident sparked a remarkable response from my mother. My mother confronted the teacher, resulting in a confrontation that reverberated throughout the entire school. "Some teachers need to be taught before they can effectively teach their students," my mother stated, defending my rights, and ensuring that my voice was heard. At that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of protection and validation. This experience exemplified the profound impact of having a family that values and defends their children. It reinforced the significance of being surrounded by loved ones who prioritize our well-being and fight for our rights, having strong support from their parents can make all the difference in a child's life.

Although positive parenting is a powerful approach, it is important to acknowledge that there are many challenges that parents may encounter along their parenting journey. One common obstacle faced by parents is the tendency to neglect their own self-care. The demands of parenting can be physically and emotionally draining, making it crucial for parents to prioritize their well-being. When parents neglect themselves, their kids feel guilty about that as a result they do not enjoy whatever their parents give as they see them sacrificing.

The idea of taking care of oneself allows parents to maintain the energy and positive mindset needed to support their children effectively. Setting aside time for rest, relaxation, and pursuing personal interests helps recharge parents and prevent burnout. By prioritizing self-care, parents not only take care of their own needs but also serve as positive role models for their children, demonstrating the importance of self-care and balanced living. By this, they let their kids know how to value themselves.

Also, continuously learning and expanding one's knowledge about effective parenting strategies is essential. By staying informed, parents can approach challenges with confidence and make informed decisions that align with their positive parenting approach. Seeking guidance from various sources empowers parents to navigate the complexities of parenting and develop strategies that work best for their unique family dynamics.

Indeed, when children witness the positive impact of their parents' care and guidance, it can inspire a sense of responsibility within them. By observing their parents' dedication and support, children are more likely to develop a strong moral compass and a desire to contribute positively to their community. Being actively involved in the community and displaying good character traits are ways in which children can demonstrate their appreciation for their parent's hard work and care. When children show kindness, respect, and empathy towards others, it reflects the values instilled by their parents. These actions not only contribute to the betterment of society but also serve as a testament to the upbringing and guidance received from their parents.

By the stories mentioned, we can now easily understand the importance of positive parenting. It becomes evident that parenting, when approached in a negative or harmful manner, can lead to significant problems that result in the loss of valuable lives. On the other hand, positive parenting plays a pivotal role in nurturing children's well-being and shaping their future. Good parenting helps parents to effectively reduce negative thoughts and behaviors within their children. Creating a peaceful and supportive environment enables children to express themselves freely, without fear or hesitation. This helps them live in a peaceful environment, never be shy to express themselves, and have enough confidence in other people.

The concept of parenting is a huge number of responsibilities, encompassing every aspect of a child's needs, from the smallest to the most significant. It requires parents to be attentive, caring, and knowledgeable about effective parenting strategies. Making decisions on behalf of their children and taking responsibility for them.

Being the decision-makers for their children, parents hold a significant responsibility. They must make choices that prioritize their children's well-being, instill important values, and foster a supportive and loving environment. This involves setting boundaries, teaching discipline, and offering guidance while also encouraging independence, growth, and self-expression.