A quick comparison of 7 parenting styles (sub-styles). Choose the one that’s right for you.

Understanding Each of the 7 Parenting Styles

Every style of parenting comes with its set of pros and cons. What may be effective for one family might not necessarily be the best fit for another. The key to parenting lies in your approach to meet the characteristics and needs of your child while also taking into account your family’s values, beliefs and cultural heritage. When you become familiar with the following 7 parenting styles and their effects especially on your child, you will be able to make an informed decision on what is best for you both.

Now, lets take a peek at some of the more modern parenting styles today:

Attachment Parenting: Discovered in 1982 by William Sears a pediatrician.

Attachment parenting focuses on creating a connection between parent and child by engaging in activities like, always carrying your baby, allowing them to sleep in your bed and responding promptly when your child wants to be fed.

Supporters of attachment parenting advocate meeting the child's needs with understanding and care to build trust and a sense of safety. It is believed that this type of parenting nurtures awareness and fosters secure attachments.

Positive Parenting: Discovered in the 1980’s by Dr. Jane Nelson

Helicopter Parenting: Discovered in the late 1980’s by Dr. Ginott

Overprotective parents known as helicopter parents tend to be deeply engaged in their child's life. They closely watch over their child, overseeing their tasks and shielding them from setbacks and letdowns.

However, despite the parents meaningful intentions they are interfering with their child’s ability to become independent and learn to solve problems on their own. 

Tiger Parenting: Discovered in 2011 by law professor Amy Cha, she actually wrote a book about it.

Tiger parenting involves parents who have high expectations and focus on success commonly seen in Eastern cultures such, as China and South Korea. These parents emphasize discipline, hard work and excellence sometimes overlooking leisure activities and socializing.

In most cases the end result is a high-acheiving child, they may also experience anxiety, burnout and a strained relationship between parent and child. 

Free-Range Parenting: Discovered in 2018 by parent Lenore Skenazy

Free-range parents encourage the idea of allowing their children the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, they are given the freedom to explore and learn from their surroundings.

Free range parents focus on teaching life skills, critical thinking and problem solving by allowing kids to engage in activities, like play, independent exploration and self guided learning.

However critics argue that free range parenting could potentially lead to safety concerns and might not be suitable for every child or environment.

Snowplow Parenting: Discovered in 2019 through an article “Operation Varsity Blues” in the New York Times

Snowplow parenting, also known as lawnmower or bulldozer parenting is all about removing any difficulties from a child’s path so that their future is guaranteed to be happy and successful (or is it?).

Similar to a snowplow clearing a path, these parents step in to eliminate any obstacles or challenges that their child might encounter. While the parents loves their child dearly, they are interfering with their child’s ability to face challenges that may present themselves.

Lighthouse Parenting: Discovered in the 1970’s it is unknown who gets credit

Lighthouse parenting symbolizes providing children with direction and assistance while granting them the space to discover and form their own path. The parents offer guidance and motivation without overseeing or dictating every aspect of their child's actions.

Lighthouse parenting encourages freedom, strength and self exploration while creating a nurturing environment filled with love and encouragement.

Eggshell Parenting: In reality it has been around since the 1930’s, however, since, nothing has been mentioned about it until recently when Dr. Kim Sage went viral on TikTok

Due to their parent’s constant mood swings, inconsistent reactions and outburst, kid’s feel like they’re walking on eggshells, often experiencing high levels of anxiety, insecurity and stress. As a result the child learns to fear their parents reactions. The parent is fine 1 min and yelling the next. 

Gentle Parenting: It has received increased attention through social media and blogs

Gentle parenting highlights the importance of empathy, respect and effective communication when guiding children's behaviour and growth. They use nothing but gentle discipline techniques such as setting limits and redirection and modelling good behaviour.

This style of parenting places an importance on promoting a trusting bond between parents and children.

Finding Your Parenting Style