What Non Reactivity Means: Breaking the Cycle of Reactive Parenting

As parents, we're often left feeling uncertain about how to respond to our children's behaviors. We may rely on one of three common parenting styles when we're unsure what to do: authoritarian parenting, permissive/passive parenting, or reactive parenting. However, these approaches can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, unnecessary exhaustion, and a pile of parenting problems we don't know how to solve.

Reactive parenting is an approach that involves emotionally reacting to our child's behaviors. This style of parenting often results in giving our children whatever they want to appease them and stop their emotional upsets. However, this approach can create a home environment without healthy boundaries, leading to unintended consequences.

On the other hand, non-reactivity means being mindful and calm in response to our child's behaviors. It's about recognizing that our reactions often fuel the very behaviors we're trying to correct. By breaking free from reactive parenting, we can become more gentle and patient parents who create happier, calmer homes for our children.

So, what does it mean to be non-reactive? According to Laura Linn Knight, a parenting educator and author, being non-reactive is about acknowledging that our child's behavior is not a personal attack on us. It's about recognizing that our child is still learning to regulate their emotions and develop self-control.

In her book, Break Free from Reactive Parenting, Laura offers practical tips for parents who want to break the cycle of reactive parenting. She suggests practicing mindfulness and self-awareness, setting clear boundaries without being controlling, and using empathy and understanding to connect with our children.

By embracing non-reactivity, we can create a more peaceful and loving home environment where our children feel safe to express themselves and grow. It's not about being perfect; it's about being present and responsive in the moment.

In conclusion, non-reactivity means being aware of our emotions and reactions as parents and making conscious choices to respond calmly and mindfully to our child's behaviors. By breaking free from reactive parenting, we can become more patient, gentle, and loving parents who create a happy and harmonious home for our children.

Non reactivity means