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Joys and challenges of parenthood

The author raised some pertinent points in Parenting is not complicated if you go with the flow (KT, Jan 8). Raising children is like walking a tight-rope. It is emotional-ly draining and requires absolute dedication, devotion, financial stability, patience, sea-soned with lot of love and compassion. But if we strike a balance and lead by example, challenges can be overcome. Children are our most priceless possessions. We love them dearly and want to give them the best of everything. Yet, in our drive to become ideal parents, most of us often turn into helicopter parents. Being pushy, possessive, nagging, expecting them to compete and emerge victorious in all things, without giving a thought about their capacity and capability.
How can you achieve the best outcome? How will you strike a balance of strictness and leniency? We as parents should be realistic about their potential, not let our expectations weigh them down. Each child is unique in his/ her own way, there is more to life than just academic excellence. Communicate with them, do not be judgmental, listen to their grievances, praise them on their achievements, savour their successes, no matter how small or big they are, let go of mistakes and stand by them.
Kids grow up in the blink of an eye. Make their childhood journey a happier one.
- Jayashree Kulkarni, Pune, India