Thank you, thank you, thank you! Just what I needed to hear when family, friends and the media tell us we are terrible parents for ‘going rogue’ and home educating. But what amazing people they are turning into with the freedom they get to be themselves at home rather than the stress of masking at a school. They have taught me in no uncertain terms that I must live in the present and be disciplined in my thinking so that I don’t fret and obsess about their future. Rather than marvelling at the development of these wonderful, different people as embark on their journey to adulthood.
For everyone who wants to criticize our kids and parenting, with their warnings and admonishments, I wish they knew no one worries about and fears for my kid’s future more than I do. If only I were aware perfect parenting would solve everything!!
THIS!! Why does anyone believe that by default parents don't care or worry about their children's future!? The majority of people caring for children are making difficult (and often unconventional) decisions because they love their children and care deeply about them now and for the future, not doing things on a whim without a thought for the consequences.
This is so very true, you've nailed the source of so much parental anguish. What is strange is the way that children can change overnight, after months or even years of seeming completely locked in behaviour patterns. My son, who refused to eat anything for years other than Birds Eye waffles and chicken nuggets, now introduces me to an exotic new cuisine every time I go to visit him.
Wise, compassionate and infinitely human words - so much pain would be avoided if this was taught in schools to teachers and parents. I am recommending all the early years practitioners, Forest School leaders and teachers I work with find you and read your books!
This is an amazing article Dr. Nami Fisher. YOu really wen tin to depth about the pressure when a parent especially mothers face when there kid get older and they lose that early childhood connection. Paents should alwasy worry about the present instead of the future.
I think growing up with a varied bunch of younger siblings can allay some of these fears. One can vividly recall “Children who hit and bite” and know they can (and did!) “grow into compassionate adults who care for others.”
so, so true. The pressure that we put ourselves under as parents is immense. If we could let go of the need to tick boxes and meet societal norms we would all be much happier!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Just what I needed to hear when family, friends and the media tell us we are terrible parents for ‘going rogue’ and home educating. But what amazing people they are turning into with the freedom they get to be themselves at home rather than the stress of masking at a school. They have taught me in no uncertain terms that I must live in the present and be disciplined in my thinking so that I don’t fret and obsess about their future. Rather than marvelling at the development of these wonderful, different people as embark on their journey to adulthood.
For everyone who wants to criticize our kids and parenting, with their warnings and admonishments, I wish they knew no one worries about and fears for my kid’s future more than I do. If only I were aware perfect parenting would solve everything!!
THIS!! Why does anyone believe that by default parents don't care or worry about their children's future!? The majority of people caring for children are making difficult (and often unconventional) decisions because they love their children and care deeply about them now and for the future, not doing things on a whim without a thought for the consequences.
This is so very true, you've nailed the source of so much parental anguish. What is strange is the way that children can change overnight, after months or even years of seeming completely locked in behaviour patterns. My son, who refused to eat anything for years other than Birds Eye waffles and chicken nuggets, now introduces me to an exotic new cuisine every time I go to visit him.
Wise, compassionate and infinitely human words - so much pain would be avoided if this was taught in schools to teachers and parents. I am recommending all the early years practitioners, Forest School leaders and teachers I work with find you and read your books!
This is an amazing article Dr. Nami Fisher. YOu really wen tin to depth about the pressure when a parent especially mothers face when there kid get older and they lose that early childhood connection. Paents should alwasy worry about the present instead of the future.
I think growing up with a varied bunch of younger siblings can allay some of these fears. One can vividly recall “Children who hit and bite” and know they can (and did!) “grow into compassionate adults who care for others.”
so, so true. The pressure that we put ourselves under as parents is immense. If we could let go of the need to tick boxes and meet societal norms we would all be much happier!
This. I needed this right now.
Thank you. I needed to hear that too. You are a trusted guide for us on this journey.
Very beautiful message. These thoughts will always be running at the back of the mind. This article is very helpful.