Should Your Parenting Style Be Discussed at the Next Parent-Teacher Conference?

But what happens when your child steps outside the family bubble? How do you explain the Guidance Approach to Parenting to teachers, caregivers, and even family members? At some point, you may ask yourself, Why should parents attend parent-teacher conferences? These meetings aren’t just about academic progress; they’re a chance to ensure that the values and methods you use at home are respected by those who care for your child outside the home.

The adult caregivers in your child’s life don’t need to fully subscribe to your parenting methods, but they do need to respect your decisions regarding how to raise your child. At some point, you may wonder, Is it time for a parent-teacher conference about your parenting style? Having open discussions can ensure your approach is understood and respected.

Talking to Caregivers and Teachers About Your Parenting Style

These conversation points can help you effectively communicate your parenting style to the adults who regularly interact with your child:

• “I treat my kids with the respect every human being, regardless of age, deserves.”
  The core of the Guidance Approach to Parenting is the belief that children are humans too, deserving of respect, understanding, and the space to express themselves. Lead every conversation with this value.

• “We encourage self-direction instead of reward vs. punishment.”
  Explain that instead of using punitive methods for behavioral issues, you focus on identifying root causes. If your child has an issue with a classmate, you prefer a self-directed resolution—finding the unmet need and encouraging both sides to work toward a solution that benefits everyone.

• “We use acknowledgement rather than praise.”
  While praise can teach a child to seek external validation, acknowledgment connects them to their own sense of accomplishment. It’s about helping children see their abilities for themselves rather than relying on what others think of them. For example, instead of saying “you’re so smart,” try “I admire how hard you worked on that,” which reinforces self-discipline and effort.

  You can guide grandparents or caregivers in this approach too. Encourage them to praise effort and hard work rather than superficial traits, fostering your child’s self-esteem from within. Statements like, “Did you know you could do that?” and “You seem proud of yourself,” can be far more impactful.

• “I refrain from using negative adjectives to describe my kids.”
  It’s essential to highlight behavior without making a child feel like their actions define them. Ask the adults in your child’s life to avoid labels like “spoiled” or “bad,” which can damage self-esteem.

• “Our children know when we talk down to them.”
  Children are perceptive, often understanding the subtleties in adult communication. If they feel marginalized or disrespected, it can harm their confidence. Remind caregivers to be conscious of how they speak to your child, ensuring they always communicate with respect.

Navigating Tough Conversations

Discussing your parenting style with others who may not share your views is rarely easy, and changing minds takes time. But by having these crucial conversations, you’re setting a standard for how your child should be treated. You may even ask yourself, Is it too late to change my parenting style? Remember, it’s never too late to adjust and refine how you engage with your child and those who care for them.

If you need further guidance or a community of like-minded parents, consider joining our private parenting Facebook group, I Love My Kid. There, you can connect with others navigating similar situations and get your questions addressed in real time during our weekly live streams.

Love and Blessings,
Katherine Sellery