Is completley ridiculous?
I have a friend with a child the same age as mine (3). I like and value this friend, and shes had quite a shit life, with some turbulent times recently. Shes not with her sons dad anymore.
We had children at the same time, and i always felt very affectionate towards her little boy. But recently, his behaviour has behaviour has been appalling.
He doesnt listen to anything, hits btes and kicks other children; has insane ridiculous tantrums that go on for hours. My friends response to this is to indulge him as much as she can, never tell him off, and let him decide what to do. For example, if my child picks up one of his toys, he will come over, snatch it and push my kid over. My friends response is to tell him: dont worry, you dont have to share anything, as her philsophy is ‘well adults dont have to share’. She believes that telling him off would ‘damage his self esteem’ and that he’s ‘not being naughty, just expressing himself’
Its got so bad her ds’ nursery have had to have a word with her about his behaviour, saying that he is hurting other children and doesnt listen to anything. Her response to this is to get annoyed that hes being told off, and to refuse to accept there is a problem.
I have experience in child health, and i dont think he’s autistic, or another disgnosis that would explain the situation. Its just her ‘gentle’ approach that is stunting his sense of empathy, discipline and self regulation.
In a deprived area, i feel you would this neglect. However, because shes middle class and is ‘gentley parenting’ its fine. I worry what will become of him, and i can fully imagine that as soon as school raise any issues, she will pull him outand home school him.
AIBU to wonder who came up with this gentle parenting bullshit, and wonder what they were smoking?!