Traditional and Contemporary Child Rearing Practice

It is a common practice to see parents raise their children the way they have been brought up,
be it traditional or modern styles. The main focus for good mind-set and good thinking
process lies in the hand of child rearing practice. Through this article, I aim to highlight the
significant differences between these two practices and how they both like every other aspect
in life have their own pros and cons.

In case of the traditional practices, the most general trend seen is a custom where the children
in the house are bound by strict rules and harsh punishment is given for any disobedience.
The children are "to be seen and not heard" and their aspirations and thoughts are
consequently ignored. Elders believe that it is important for a child to be disciplined and
some even resorted to physical punishment if the child misbehaves.
There is a belief that, punishment creates a sense of fear inside the child and so, one will not
repeat the same mistake. In this case, the parents are not hesitant to say "no" to their children
or hurt their feelings - all with a hope that this will prepare their child for a tough future. They
expect much from their children but don't explain the reason for their rules and boundaries.
They adopt methods where the children are forced to find their own solutions instead of being
guided or spoon - fed. Their primary focus is comprehensive development of their children
especially with respect too their values and culture and its importance.

With the changing times however, parents today have a more modern approach. They try to
understand the sensitivity of the matter and are actively engaged with their children. They
feel the necessity to provide a platform for their children to express his or her views rather
than following unexplained norms. They try to built an emotionally and mentally strong
individual. The idea is to make the child independent by allowing them to take decisions and
voice their opinion and at the same time placing limits and controls on their actions in a
manner such that the child is in agreement with it. These parents demand maturity and when
punishing a child, explain his or her motive for their punishment. They encourage them to
"be yourself" rather than replicating others in a manner where they will not disturb their
morals.
However, in some cases parents always stay close to their children, ready to direct, help or
protect them even before it is required. Parents are one step ahead of their children,
smoothing their path and making sure nothing gets in their way.
I firmly believe that every child should have their chance to enjoy the period before
adulthood. They should be given their freedom and permission to have fun but under the
guidance of their parents, teachers or caretakers who can guide them and thus refrain them
from taking the wrong direction. Children learn to solve problems and test limits when they
are allowed freedom and a chance to take risks and also enhances their development.