Children represent the future, carrying forward traditions while shaping the society they live in. The way parents nurture them lays the foundation for future generations, shaping role models and setting the tone for the world ahead.
Every action of parents and their child-rearing practices profoundly impacts a child’s growth.
A balanced parenting approach — combining warmth with appropriate boundaries and support — promotes emotional and intellectual development, helping children thrive.
Children are life’s adornment and one of the greatest blessings from God. How parents and close family members nurture these little flowers in the garden of life determines the future of the world. Thus, raising a child is one of the most critical responsibilities a parent undertakes, profoundly influenced by cultural, societal and individual factors.
Dr Moniza Hasnat, a paediatric specialist in Muscat, explains that the parenting style adopted plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s emotional, social and cognitive development.
“A child’s growing brain needs more than just rules and discipline. It requires a nurturing environment with a helper, a friend, and an emotionally available caregiver,” she says. Such environments make children feel secure, understood, and valued, fostering healthy brain development.
Dr Hasnat outlines four key parenting styles: They are:
Strict rules and high standards enforce discipline, but may instil fear in children. A combination of warmth and clear boundaries fosters confidence and resilience and lenient approaches encourage self-esteem but may lead to impulsive behaviour.
Also minimal guidance can negatively impact self-esteem and academic performance.
“Parents must aim for a balanced approach, providing emotional availability alongside structure to ensure well-rounded growth,” she adds.
Children mirror emotions and internalise their parents’ words, shaping their inner voice. Positive, respectful communication helps nurture self-esteem and self-worth, influencing how children interact with the world.
Teaching children core values such as love, tolerance, empathy and patience requires modelling behaviour, direct instruction, and a supportive environment. Practicing patience with children helps them manage frustration and build resilience.
Adolescence brings critical brain development and emotional challenges. Teenagers are vulnerable to stress and mental health struggles, requiring parents to be nurturing, attentive and consistent.
“Our love, patience, and presence can make all the difference,” says Dr Hasnat. “Active listening and unwavering support give teenagers the stability they need to navigate this transformative stage.”
Parenting is both an art and a science, where the ultimate goal is to raise emotionally healthy, confident individuals ready to embrace life’s challenges and make the world a better place.
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