|
While I agree there can't be a blanket, one-size-fits-all definition, I disagree that one wouldn't be able to differentiate a good parent from a bad one. Letting your kids run wild in Applebee's might not be bad parenting, but it's lousy control and misguided thinking. Same with being overbearing.
A 'bad' parent doesn't meet the needs of the family at all and is neglectful, possibly violent towards the kids.
I had my kids later in life and long after everyone in our circle of family and friends had theirs. I observed how they were with their own kids, knowing I wouldn't do much of what they were doing. Some of the things I allowed, my mother and friends thought I was wrong to do-I let my kids jump on the furniture, I let them watch The Simpsons , I didn't put 5 layers of clothes on them if it got chilly out and, Heavens!! I put them in the backyard naked on warm summer days. I have been 'accused' of being a 'bad parent' because I used wrist 'leashes', yet I wasn't one of those moms in the mall calling her kids' names because they'd wandered off or yelling at them to "get over here now!"
Do I consider myself a 'good parent'? Most times. My now-teenagers are trustworthy , A-B students and quite self-sufficient and very polite.
I did and do what I think is right and along the way I made mistakes, which I apologize for to my kids. I owe no explanations to anyone else.
Bottom line is, a good parent can make mistakes. How would we know a good one from a bad one? Ask their kids.
|