We have all been affected by childism when we were children, we often don’t realise it though and just grew to accept that adults hold a position of power over children. Often our loved ones have been even more deeply affected than us and when we struggle with their beliefs about parenting and discipline, we have to start with empathy and understanding how they have reached this position before we can ever try to change it.
Tag Archives: respectful parenting
‘Because I Said So!’ – free book excerpt and introduction to Childism
Childism is no different to any other ‘ism’ – racism, sexism, ageism, heterosexism (more commonly known as homophobia) and ableism. It simply refers to the discrimination of children in our society. You could argue that childism is a form of ageism, since ageism is usually defined as being treated unfairly, or discriminated against, because of age. The term ageism, however, is usually used to refer to the middle-aged and elderly in society and doesn’t address the unique barriers, discrimination and mistreatment faced by the young. Nor does it consider the underlying causes, or the nuanced views necessary to advocate for a societal demographic who are so often believed to be spoiled rotten, showered with constant love, attention and money.
Six New Year’s Resolutions Every Parent Should Make
As we approach the dawn of a new year thoughts turn again to resolutions. Many will be resolving to lose weight, stop smoking, cut back on their drinking and to exercise more, others may decide to quit their job, start a new education course or hobby – but for those who are parents there areContinue reading “Six New Year’s Resolutions Every Parent Should Make”
What is ‘Gentle Parenting’ and how is it different to ‘Mainstream Parenting’?
I use the term ‘gentle parenting’ a lot when I write and a lot of people ask me what exactly I mean by it. “What is gentle parenting?” they say…… Often they confuse the ‘gentle parenting’ terminology with the idea of Attachment Parenting (or AP is it is commonly known), which isn’t strictly true. AlthoughContinue reading “What is ‘Gentle Parenting’ and how is it different to ‘Mainstream Parenting’?”
Why Gentle Parenting is NOT Permissive Parenting
It’s a common misconception, those who parent their babies and children with respect and compassion are deemed “permissive parents”. These gentle permissive parents are seen as always letting their offspring get their own way, thus creating future selfish ‘me, me’ and ‘I want it all – NOW’ adults. Many describe gentle parents as being “too childContinue reading “Why Gentle Parenting is NOT Permissive Parenting”
Sarah Ockwell-Smith 
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