Parenting is not a science and it is not an art. If you peruse any parenting section in a bookstore, you will find a smorgasbord of views on any one topic. The psychologist and psychiatrist types tend to present a problem and solve approach- as if parenting was a science. The nonmental health professionals write about parenting issues from their personal experiences- as if parenting was an art.

It is my view that parenting is neither science or art but rather a process or way of being – like growing up. Inherent in being a parent are mistakes and a learning curve. What children need most from their parents is to be truly listened to, respected, and valued. Children of different ages have evolving needs and how a parent learns to be available to their changing needs, over time, is a learning process.

Consider reading the third parentStrategy newsletterThe Parenting Travelogue.

ASK YOURSELF: WHAT DOES YOUR BEHAVIOR AS A PARENT SAY ABOUT WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU AS A PERSON?