I’ve studied over 200 kids—the No. 1 new parenting style that works better than the rest: It’s ‘what kids need but rarely receive’

Parenting can be approached in numerous ways, such as authoritative, authoritarian, or gentle parenting. However, creating a safe emotional environment for children may be the key to their success. A new parenting framework focuses on emotional safety, which involves being attuned to a child’s emotional needs, setting boundaries while promoting independence, and fostering emotional resilience through open communication. Emotionally safe parents accept their child’s emotions, avoid shaming, view misbehavior as stress signals, take responsibility after conflicts, and work on their own self-awareness. They aim to create a safe space where children can express themselves authentically. Practicing emotionally safe parenting involves doing inner work, seeing behavior as a form of communication, setting boundaries with empathy, and preventing shame. Effective communication is crucial in emotionally safe parenting, as it shapes a child’s self-perception and ability to regulate emotions. Ultimately, emotionally safe parenting aims to provide children with a sense of safety, support, and unconditional love, helping them develop emotional regulation skills and healthy relationships.