RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTING

2.1 Parenting and Families

Parenting

The process of caring for children and helping them grow and develop.

Can be very complicated.Impacts individuals, families, and societiesOne of the most important roles in a person’s

life.

Making a Positive Difference

Treat others with kindness and considerationSome neighborhood children can benefit from

having a teen friend.Volunteer or work with children

Learning About Child Development

What to expect when raising childrenWhat to expect when you are expectingParenting skillsDiscipline optionsLearn and understand what the child may be

going through (developmental stages)Interacting with children positively

Parenthood Readiness

Parenting Skills- can be learned!!Take classes in child development and

parenting in school, at hospitals, community groups, and private instructors.

Read reliable books, magazine articles, etc.Gain experienceAsk for adviceObserve parents and children

Stages of Parenthood

Psychologist Ellen GalinskyBetween Generations: The Six Stages of

ParenthoodResearch finding based on interviews with

parentsGalinsky describes how parents develop

through their interaction with their children.

Stages of Parenthood

Stage 1: Image-MakingTime Period: PregnancyParents’ Task: Begin to imagine themselves

as parents.

Stages of Parenthood

Stage 2: NurturingTime Period: Birth to Age 2Parents’ Task:

Become emotionally attached to the child. May question relative worth of other priorities

Stages of Parenthood

Stage 3: AuthorityTime Period: Age 2 to 4 or 5Parents’ Task:

Determine rules Clarify role as authority figure

Stages of Parenthood

Stage 4: InterpretiveTime Period: Age 4-5 to Age 13Parents’ Task:

Rethink their role as parents Decide what knowledge, skills, and values the child

needs

Stages of Parenthood

Stage 5: InterdependentTime Period: AdolescenceParents’ Task:

Establish boundaries Find disciplinary methods appropriate for teens

Stages of Parenthood

Stage 6- DepartureTime Period: Child leaves homeParents’ Task:

Evaluate their parenting

New Responsibilities / Changes

Lifestyle Change Less free time (or “ME” time)

Emotional Adjustment Stressful Negative emotions are normal (fear, frustration,

worry, jealously, depression due to exhaustion)Relationship Changes

COMMUNICATE!!!!!Employment AdjustmentsLegal Responsibilities

Rewards

Can bring a lot of joy and happinessSee the world differentlyEnrich an already strong marriage / familyGreat sense of accomplishment and pride

What are the five area’s of parenthood readiness?

Emotional MaturityDesire to be a parentHealthFinancial ResponsibilityResource Management

Parenthood Readiness

Emotional Maturity- being responsible enough to consistently put someone else’s needs before your own needs.

Parenthood Readiness

Desire for Parenthood Do you want to have children? Why do you want children? Are you ready to handle the challenges of parenthood?

Parenthood Readiness

Health Consideration- get a medical check up. Some medical problems can affect the health of the baby or the parents’ ability to care for a child.

Consider Age: under 17 or over 35 pregnancy is riskier for both the mother and baby.

Parenthood Readiness

Financial Concerns- Raising a child is expensive. How will you pay for clothes, health care, food, equipment, toys, childcare, etc.

Parenthood Readiness

Resource Management Skills- parents need to use their resources wisely.

Five Key Steps:1. Set Goals- what is important.2. Identify Resources- make a list3. Make a Plan- decide how you will use your

resources4. Put the Plan in Action- start working towards

the goal.5. Re-Evaluate from Time to Time- step back and

take a look at progress.

Family Goals

Buying a houseBuying a CarSending the child to preschoolEducationVacation