Panda parenting is a style that helps to raise kids in a not so ‘stereotypical’ manner.

When you hear the word ‘panda parenting’ the first cognitive association is with the cute species of pandas themselves. Pandas are regarded to be lazy and clumsy but this has nothing to do with the term panda parenting. Human is a social animal. How animals help their young ones grow is a lot different than the humankind. Some are possessive, some feed on it, some let them fly by themself. Typically, there are four quadrants that parenting falls in – authoritative, authoritarian, permissive and uninvolved. Given the diversity of parenting styles observed in the animal world, these names have been associated with human parenting too. Like ‘tiger mom,’ dolphin parenting’, ‘ elephant parents’, ‘panda dad’ etc are few tags in the pop culture.

So what approach is the panda parenting style? Inspired by panda’s warm and gentle nature, this strategy is about letting children explore and burn the fire of curiosity on their own. It is their own an innovative approach to nurturing and guiding children that emphasises empathy, communication, and emotional intelligence. It is about focusing on creating a supportive environment that fosters healthy emotional and psychological development in children.

How is Panda Parenting Beneficial?

• Empathy and Understanding: Parents are encouraged to understand their children’s feelings and perspectives. This involves active listening, validating emotions, and responding with compassion. By modeling empathetic behavior, parents teach children to express their feelings and develop strong emotional intelligence.
• Open Communication: You Panda Parenting promotes open lines of communication between parents and children. Parents are encouraged to create a safe space for children to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
• Positive Reinforcement: Instead of focusing on punishment for misbehavior, it encourages parents to recognise and reward good behavior. Positive reinforcement not only boosts a child’s self-esteem but also encourages them to repeat desirable behaviours.
• Encouraging Independence: This style recognises the importance of fostering independence in children. Parents are encouraged to allow their children to make choices and take on responsibilities appropriate for their age. Empowering children to make decisions helps build confidence and critical thinking skills, preparing them for future challenges.

These are few aspects of panda parenting that offers a nurturing and supportive framework for raising children. There is no guide to parenting. Every lifestyle every family has their own way. Open communication, empathy are few ways that can initiate open dialogues with parents giving them window into the kids world.