The challenge with most parenting philosophies is their unrealistic expectation for perfection. They often promote the idea that you should always prioritize your children’s needs above everything else—your own mental health, finances, and well-being included. In this quest for an ideal parenting score, many of us feel like we’re falling short.
Let me ease your burden: it’s okay to aim for something less than perfection. Remember those high-achieving kids in school who studied relentlessly for that flawless GPA? They probably missed out on some fun times, right? So why put that kind of pressure on yourself as a parent? There’s no prestigious parenting institution to get into, so take a breather and aim for a solid B-plus instead.
A B-plus parent is one who loves their children and wishes for their happiness and success, all while acknowledging that their own life matters too. So, if you find yourself in this B-plus parenting camp like I do, let’s discuss how to navigate the noise surrounding the issue of shouting at kids.
You’ve probably seen viral posts from people who claim their lives improved dramatically after giving up on yelling. There are also those who argue that shouting is akin to physical punishment. And let’s not forget the judgmental looks you get when you raise your voice in public. “Oh, I’m sorry for disrupting the calm atmosphere of this restaurant!” I’d like to shout back at them: I’M ONLY HUMAN!!!
Sure, raising your voice can be startling or even frightening for kids, but that’s sometimes the point! I’m not advocating for constant shouting; that would diminish its effect. However, an occasional well-timed yell can be effective. Here are five perfectly legitimate reasons to raise your voice at your children:
- Safety First: This is a no-brainer. If your child is about to do something dangerous, like jumping into a polar bear enclosure, you need to shout to grab their attention immediately. Calmly saying, “Please don’t do that” won’t suffice in life-or-death scenarios.
- Cut Through the Noise: My household often resembles a chaotic concert with competing sounds. In that kind of environment, softly saying, “Dinner’s ready!” usually gets lost in the din. Sometimes, a loud “DINNER TIME!” is the only way to get everyone’s attention. Once we’re gathered, we can chat peacefully—unless, of course, the mashed potatoes start flying.
- Express Real Emotions: Let’s face it, kids aren’t always the most empathetic creatures. When one sibling hurts another, it’s often met with pride rather than remorse. A gentle scolding won’t do the trick; they need to hear a firm “GO TO TIME OUT RIGHT NOW!” It’s all about establishing boundaries and showing them who’s in charge without being cruel.
- Show Your Humanity: Sometimes, I shout because I’ve simply had enough. After asking for the umpteenth time for my kids to clean up their toys, I lose my cool. I don’t think it makes me a bad parent; it makes me human. I often follow up with an apology to them, explaining that I love them even when I’m upset. It turns a moment of frustration into a valuable learning experience.
- Mirror Their Behavior: This might be the most trivial reason, but when my kids shout at me, I feel compelled to respond in kind. They need to understand how it feels when their volume escalates. Plus, let’s be real: my adult voice can easily overpower their little shouts, and perhaps it’ll teach them that yelling isn’t the best way to communicate.
In the end, shouting should be reserved for special occasions, like ensuring safety or addressing serious matters. If you’re looking for more insights on parenting, consider checking out our other blog posts or visiting this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Parenting doesn’t have to be perfect. Embracing a B-plus parenting style means you can express yourself, even if that includes shouting sometimes. Whether it’s for safety, to be heard, or to show you’re human, there are valid reasons to raise your voice. Remember, it’s all about balance.