Parenting is definitely one of the toughest jobs in the world. Add in complicating factors such as separation, physical or mental illness, financial hardship, blended families, single parenthood or any other stressful event, and it can become overwhelming. It is typical for two parents to have two different parenting styles, making it difficult to parent effectively. Not to mention how stressful it is to parent a child with physical, emotional or behavioural challenges.
Sometimes it seems like there is so much information out there in the media about what makes a good parent, that it can be confusing. Many parents do not know where to turn when they are struggling and at “the end of their rope”. It is important to know that there is no such thing as the “perfect parent” or the “right way to parent”. Each of us has to learn our own style of parenting that fits with our values and also the temperament of the child. It can be a relief to have a safe place to discuss your struggles and create some new, more effective strategies for parenting.
Whenever a family is experiencing challenges, it is always important to remember that there is never one person to blame. A family is like a living organism, where each part effects how the other parts function. Any small change within the family system will effect each and every member of that system. Often, it is most beneficial to receive family counselling so that the breakdown in the family system can be most effectively addressed.