Lesson 1.1: Parenting Philosophies

Lesson Summary

This lesson introduces the different roles of a parent and parenting philosophies. You will learn about different parenting philosophies and reflect on your behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes about parenting,

Key Understandings

Parents wear many hats and have many roles.
Parents will become familiar with parenting styles and philosophies.
- How would you describe your parenting style?
Parents understand how their childhood experiences influence their children.
- How do childhood experiences influence your children?

BEFORE: Engage in Learning

Watch the video below and reflect on your role as a parent.

What is a Parent?

Parenting is a job that you cannot quit! You have it for life and although it is a huge responsibility, you can always improve your parenting skills by understanding your role as a parent and its impact on your children.

DURING: Explore new concepts

Parenting styles are typically used to describe a parent's manner of disciplining (or of interacting with) their children. Your personal beliefs and attitude are closely related to parenting style.

Refer to the Parenting Styles Handout as you watch the videos on three parenting styles.

Controlling/Demanding

Apprehensive/Permissive

Assertive/Democratic

Read the article and reflect the impact of your childhood experiences on how you parent today.

The Past Is Present: The Impact of Your Childhood Experiences on How You Parent TodayThis article encourages parents to reflect on experiences they had growing up in order to make conscious decisions about what practices they want to repeat, and not repeat, with their own children.

AFTER: Extend your learning

The job of being a parent is many jobs all rolled into one. Another way we would like to describe a parent is as a gardener. Let’s think about gardening.

What does it take to be a good gardener?

It takes time and hard work. Gardening is not an easy job, but when the gardener is careful and caring with his garden, the rewards can be amazing!

Parents learn what children need for healthy growth like the gardener learns what is good for his plants. You are responsible for its survival and growth. You are the “gardener” of that plant.

Exit Ticket: Final Reflection

As you listen to the song Cada Nino, answer the following question:

How is a parent like a gardener?

Share your reflection with the other participants in your local program.

In Spanish, the word "AVANCE" means "advancement." Not only will you advance by learning more about your job as parents, but you will also help children "AVANCE" in school so they will do well in life.