Parenting 101

Growing up in a black family and community can be hard at times, because of the rigid, traditional approach that is used to parent children. Luckily, as we move on to different times, today’s parents/generation are/is slowly changing that by using a conscious approach to parenting.

Parents tend to forget that they are raising individuals/human beings that are different in their own nature. These children need to nurtured, guided and allowed room to develop and grow into their true selves, what the creator made them to be, and not necessarily what parents want them to be.

It is seen as disrespect when children share their opinions, are inquisitive or oppose certain ideas. Parents do not want to or do not understand the importance of conflict resolution through constructive communication. They resort to shouting, hitting and punishing even in unnecessary situations.

There is a level of toxic authority presented in parenting, whereby the parent always wants to be on top and right. Parents do not want to sit down and talk with their children and try to understand the standpoint, because of the fear of losing their authority.

Conscious parenting allows for this communication and understanding to take place. The parent guides the child through life and allows the child to make their own decisions when it is the right thing to do.

Karabo Mokoena and Gaopalelwe Phalaetsile delve deep into this topic in Black Mom Chronicles on YouTube. Here is the link to the conversation: https://youtu.be/X2KcFtF-FCU

I hope that we can all learn something from this topic or can relate in some way.

Does conscious parenting have a place in black communities?

Take care