We live in a time where parenting is a business more serious than ever before. Tons of parenting video, advisory groups, expectations, guilt and fear of failure plague the parents of today. The sensitivity of parenting has reached a level that we look towards social approval and trends from social media to be an ‘ideal parent’. Ideal parent – One who has the capability to produce and paves way for the next state toppers, sports icons, best musician and all of that put together.

 I am certainly not against social media and the way its shaping our lifestyle. Its just that there’s a whole world of information both good and poor that it takes a lifetime to get to an ‘ideal state’. More so often it only add pressure and doubt to our own capabilities. Let’s keep the search but I strongly believe that we as parents need to take a pause and see what works for us and our children. Each child is unique and so are we the parents and our parenting ways. There is a no ‘off the shelf solution’ but parenting is something that we all need to make based on our values, culture and experiences. That said, our ways are changing rapidly so let’s be open to change, filter to absorb the goodness that comes via social media and do what is right for our children. Involve children in planning and decision making on family affairs so you can see their perspectives, gain more accountability from them in the decision and more importantly show respect for their individuality and uniqueness.