As a parenting coach and a mom of two toddlers, I am often asked about my parenting philosophy. Many expect me to follow gentle parenting, a popular approach focused on empathy, kindness, and patience. While I respect its principles, I have found a more powerful tool that resonates deeply with me and aligns with my parenting goals: mindful parenting.
It’s about staying present, aware, and intentional in our interactions with our children. It goes beyond being gentle; it emphasizes responding thoughtfully to situations rather than reacting impulsively. This approach has helped me in addressing tantrums, challenging behaviours, and everyday parenting moments with my kiddos.
Parenting is not about perfection but connection. With mindful parenting, I try understand my kids emotions and needs while maintaining my emotional balance. It’s not always easy, especially when my child throws a tantrum in the middle of a busy day or tests boundaries with defiance. But instead of reacting with frustration or adhering strictly to “gentle” principles, I pause, breathe, and reflect before responding.
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When my kids throw tantrums or exhibit challenging behaviors, my instinct might be to calm them down quickly or enforce discipline immediately. But I’ve learned to take a pause. I remind myself: What is this behavior communicating? Often, tantrums stem from tiredness, hunger, frustration, or a need for connection.
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For instance, when my toddler throws toys in frustration, I don’t immediately respond. Instead, I calmly pick up the toy, get down to his level, and say, “It looks like you’re upset. Can you show me what’s wrong?” This small shift helps me address the root cause rather than the symptom.
Mindful parenting means focusing on the present. If my child is upset, I resist the urge to worry about what others might think or how to prevent this in the future. Instead, I try to be there. Whether it’s offering a hug or simply sitting nearby as they cry, my presence speaks louder than words.
I ensure my kids know their feelings are valid, but I also teach them that their actions have consequences. For example, if they hit or scream out of frustration, I empathize by saying, “I know you’re angry because you couldn’t have the toy right now,” but I also add, “Hitting is not okay. Let’s use our words to tell me how you feel.”
Every parenting moment is a lesson—for my kids and me.
Adopting a mindful approach has transformed me as a parent. My children feel heard and understood, which strengthens our bond. They are also learning to navigate their emotions in healthy ways, something I believe is one of the greatest gifts a parent can offer.
Mindful parenting doesn’t mean I never lose my cool or make mistakes. I’m human, after all. But by prioritizing mindfulness, I’ve found a balance that allows me to guide my kids with love, patience, and clarity.
Note from Momyhood:
Follow Aradhana on Instagram at [@aradhana22.purohit] for daily parenting inspiration, tips on mindful parenting, and heartfelt glimpses into her journey as a mom of toddlers. Her content is filled with practical advice, relatable stories, and empowering posts that help parents navigate the joys and challenges of raising young children.
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