Styles:

Authoritarian:
Parent has all the power.
Decisions made for the child,
without discussion or explanation. 
This  parenting is cold and firm.

Indulgent:
Child is allowed lots of power. 
Boundaries not set or enforced. 
This parenting is warm and soft.

Indifferent:
Parents may not show any interest in the child's needs. 
Life is centered on the parent. 
This parenting may swing between
inconsistent indulgent & authoritarian styles
Child won't know how to behave or what to expect.

Abusive: 
Parents hurt their children. 
This parenting includes
emotional, physical or sexual abuse and neglect. 
This parenting causes lasting damage & must be stopped!

Authoritative: 
Parents set clear boundaries,
child is allowed some power within those boundaries. 
In a majority of situations. research suggests that
this parenting has the best outcomes for young people!

This parenting is both firm and warm. 
There's a clear set of appropriate boundaries,
and plenty of affection given. 
This parenting boosts a young persons self-esteem. 
It develops resilience, helps them to be independent
and have healthy relationships.

Tip: Explain clearly the consequences
if limits/boundaries are broken.
Be consistent with limits; follow through with consequences.
Use and expect co-operation, rather than obedience.

Often parents have different styles. 
One maybe strict and the other lenient. 
One maybe affectionate and the other colder. 
In this situation they can balance each other out.

It's very important for parents to work together.
They must agree on the rules,
and support each other in enforcing them.
Even when parents have trouble agreeing,
they need to discuss it away from children
and be able to agree or compromise.

It's important not to undermine the other parent
or keep secrets with the child.

Teenagers benefit from being monitored,
e.g. check where they are going and who with,
and confirm a time to be home.

It's normal for them to have some secrets,
but aim for an open relationship,
so they feel comfortable when they want to talk to you
and want advice.

Young people feel more cared for
when parents take an interest in them.
Create routines and rules for them to grow up safely.

Think about the relationship you would like
when your child is an adult.
You can start to create that now!

Even though parenting can be difficult
and very challenging,
we only have one chance.
We need to give it the best we can......
Remember talking is the best thing......