In this episode, Aniesa discusses two parenting styles that have been up for big debate in the past few years: helicopter parenting and free-range parenting. Aniesa explores what these approaches to child raising are, the advantages and disadvantages to both, giving a balanced view of these parenting styles and also talks about why any parenting is never just about the child.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Helicopter parenting which is characterised by a parent’s constant involvement in their child's life, is often seen as being overprotective.
• Free-range parenting is instead about giving children more autonomy and freedom to explore and learn on their own.
• One of the main criticisms of helicopter parenting is that it can lead to children who are overly dependent on their parents, struggling to make their own decisions and having a lack of resilience.
• The free-range approach to parenting advocates for children to have more autonomy and more independence whilst the carer still provides guidance and support. They also believe that children should choose their own interests.
• One of the benefits of free-range parenting is it allows children to develop important life skills such as problem-solving, decision making and resilience.
• The main criticism of free-range parenting is some believe that in order to thrive children need structure and guidance.
• Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages and what works well with one family and child might not for another.
• Parenting styles can evolve and adapt over time and something this is essential to meet individual children’s needs. There is not a one size fits all solution to parenting.

BEST MOMENTS

“His take on it was this type of parenting [helicopter parenting] is often driven by fear or anxiety and the desire to protect their child from harm”

“Helicopter parenting can lead to fear of failure as they have been constantly protected from failure in their childhood”

“Free range parents believe children should be able to make their own mistakes and learn from them”

“Free range parenting can be seen as neglectful”

“Parenting styles can evolve and adapt over time”

CONTACT METHOD

www.instagram.com/aniesabblore/
www.instagram.com/sensationalkidstherapyuk/
www.facebook.com/sensationalkidslondon

ABOUT THE HOST

Aniesa completed her degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Stellenbosch, in South Africa. She has since been focusing on pediatrics and sensory processing and integration. She has worked across a range of pediatric fields and has extensive experience in autism, specific learning difficulties, as well as anxiety and emotional regulation.

Aniesa has one teenage son with autism, and one with sensory difficulties. She herself was diagnosed at a late age as having ADHD and has found that understanding her neurodivergence has led to a greater connection with children and their parents.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.