Does Positive Parenting Work?

A Guide for Moms

I’m going to let you in on a little secret – positive parenting works.

Positive parenting (and specifically positive parenting language) changed my life. It made me a calmer, more confident parent. It changed my relationship with my children (and myself!) and it changed my children in countless ways. It even changed my career path. I became a positive parenting coach because I want everyone to see the results I have seen. I want this profound change for you, too.

Parenting is hard. We haven’t been taught how to do it, that village we were promised is nowhere to be found, and we are TIRED.

And yet amidst all the beautiful chaos, we have tiny humans relying on us. Not just to keep them alive, but to help them thrive. We should never take this job lightly.

And that’s why I’m writing this blog post. I want to show you that positive parenting works. It’s effective and proven and beautiful. I want to share my best tips and tricks for helping you become a calm, confident parent. I want you to see the beautiful results of positive parent.

Let’s dive in!

What is Positive Parenting?

Positive parenting is a style of raising kids that leads with love, empathy, and support instead of punishment, correction, and control. It focuses on building a strong, respectful, and loving parent-child relationship and emphasizes the importance of communication and guidance. Positive parenting strives to create an environment where children can flourish emotionally, socially, and academically while feeling secure and loved.

Doesn’t that sound like a lovely way to parent?

Sure, but…

Does Positive Parenting Work?

As you can imagine, I believe (and have seen so many times) that positive parenting works. But I’m guessing you don’t just want to take my word for it?

The science supporting positive parenting is both compelling and reassuring. Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated the effectiveness and positive impact of this approach to child development.

Here’s what the studies say:

1. Emotional Regulation: Positive parenting fosters emotional regulation in children. By acknowledging and validating their emotions rather than punishing or dismissing them, children learn to understand and manage their feelings effectively.
2. Behavioral Improvement: Research has shown that children raised with positive parenting techniques exhibit improved behavior. This approach encourages parents to set clear expectations and boundaries while also providing constructive guidance and consequences when needed.
3. Cognitive Development: Positive parenting nurtures cognitive development. Through open communication and problem-solving discussions, children develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of cause-and-effect relationships.
4. Resilience: Children raised with positive parenting tend to be more resilient in the face of challenges. The consistent emotional support and encouragement they receive enable them to tackle adversity with confidence.
5. Enhanced Self-Esteem: Positive parenting builds a child’s self-esteem and self-worth. When children feel loved, valued, and respected by their parents, they are more likely to develop a strong sense of self and confidence.
6. Stronger Relationships: Positive parenting techniques create stronger parent-child relationships. Trust, mutual respect, and open communication are the cornerstones of this approach, leading to deeper connections between parents and their children.

Positive Parenting vs. Traditional Parenting

To appreciate the science behind positive parenting fully, let’s compare it to traditional parenting approaches. Traditional parenting demands respect through punishment, coercion, and control. Many of us were raised this way (even in the most loving households). While these approaches may yield short-term compliance, they lack the long-term benefits of positive parenting.

Positive parenting cultivate’s a child’s intrinsic motivation. Instead of punishing children for doing something wrong, it teaches them what is right. Instead of demanding blind obedience, it guides them to choose better behaviors.

Keep in mind, positive parenting isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Positive parenting is not permissive parenting. Positive parents set and enforce boundaries. Positive parents are still in charge, we just lead with love instead of fear.

Will Positive Parenting Work for Me?

The short answer is – yup. Positive parenting works for everyone. Every child. No matter what.

The long answer is positive parenting is the most profound and rewarding experience. It is also hard. It takes practice and patience and consistency. It often takes reflecting on your upbringing to mange your triggers.

But here’s what motivates me to keep going:

• Reduced stress and frustration: By focusing on understanding your child’s emotions and needs, rather than reacting impulsively to misbehavior, you’ll discover newfound patience and calm within yourself.
• Parent-child bond: By implementing positive parenting techniques, your relationship with your child will transform. It’s absolutely beautiful. When you build your connection on a foundation of love and understanding, your child will feel safe with you, confide in you, and trust you.
• Parenting confidence: Traditional parenting often leads to mom guilt – questioning and second guessing yourself and feeling guilty about discipline. But with positive parenting, you will go to sleep at night feeling good about the way you parented.

Why is Positive Parenting Important?

It’s important to recognize that we have access to more information and research on child development and effective parenting than our parents did. It’s our responsibility to pay attention to this information and use it. In doing so, we have the unique opportunity to raise a generation of children who are not only better equipped to navigate life’s ups and downs but also poised to make a positive impact on their communities and the world as a whole.

Positive parenting is important because it equips children with the skills and emotional resilience needed to thrive in today’s complex world. Children raised with positive parenting techniques are better prepared to adapt to new situations, handle stress, and build healthy relationships with others. They learn the importance of empathy, cooperation, and effective communication—essential qualities for success in both personal and professional spheres.

As you guide your child to develop these skills, the ripple effect of positive parenting will extend far beyond the walls of your home. When we raise children who have a strong foundation in emotional intelligence, empathy, and respect for others, we contribute to the creation of kinder, more compassionate communities.

Children who grow up with these values are more likely to be kind, understanding, and considerate – and to spread these values to their communities and play a role in building a better society. In this way, the impact of positive parenting extends to the broader world.

I truly believe that positive parenting can shape a brighter future.

How Can I Become a Positive Parent?

I’m so glad you asked 🙂 To get started, check out my blog post 10 Ways to Be a Positive Parent. When you’re ready for more:

1. Get your FREE Guide to Positive Parent Language – the simplest and most powerful way to bring positive parenting into your home.
2. Connect with me on my other platforms for positive parenting tips and techniques. You can find me on Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest.

I’d love to help you become the calm, confident parent you are meant to be.