Toddler parents learned what preschoolers need to thrive and what parenting style is best for the development of children during a Parent Talk presented by our Infant & Toddler Division Head, Xhilda Kumi last week.

At first, Xhilda briefed parents on how toddlers learn:

§  By Imitation, (sensitive period for imitating adults); mostly from parents and teachers

§  Mirror the values that you live in

§  Experiences/ Children pay more attention to our action than our words

§  Let your action teach your child that she is loved, valued, and respected

§  Repetition/ Freedom within limits

“To meet toddlers’ needs, we should not only give them love, but more importantly set limits and boundaries,” she said. She demonstrated why the authoritative parenting style among others is the best approach for children to develop social and academic skills.

Four parenting styles:

1. Permissive Parents

 Fearful parents, much Love-No boundaries, insecurity

2. Neglectful Parents

Not much love not enough discipline. Absent/Uninvolved Parents. Children Emotional scars, no role models

3. The Authoritarian Parent

Fighting parents Not much love-Too high discipline. Children socially and emotionally withdrawn; often become rebellious; insecure and harder on themselves if they don’t achieve.

4. The Authoritative Parent

Best combination of love and discipline. Compassionate yet firm and clear boundaries. High self-esteem children. Good coping skills.

She then specified what authoritative parents do to help children thrive:

•       A child thrives when he knows what to expect. Regular routines and a structured environment help your child feel safe and secure

•       Enough sleep

•       Keep a healthy diet

•       Involve children in daily life, such as cooking and housework

•       Spend time with children to build emotional connection

•       Teach your child to take turns instead of sharing when playing toys

•       Listen to your child’s feelings

•       Encouragement not Discouragement

We welcome more parents to take part in our series of workshops and events to get involved in our buzzing school life and gain a first-hand experience of Montessori education. Please follow our WeChat for the latest updates.