Any parent will tell you parenting is a journey full of challenges, but it is also one of life's most fulfilling experiences. As parents, we all want the best for our children, but sometimes, our best intentions can lead us down the wrong path. Parenting with intention is a shift away from following trends and societal expectations. It is about being mindful of our choices, aware of our actions, and committing to our values—which takes knowing ourselves on a deeper level than what we’ve been taught or shown about how to parent. Parenting with intention means focusing on the process and not just the outcome—a critical point. This approach allows us to support our child's growth and development while also nurturing their unique qualities.
The Power of Intention:
Our intentions shape our actions, thoughts, and emotions. As a parent, it is essential to be intentional about how you show up for your children. You must be clear about your values and what matters most to you. Being intentional allows you to be more focused on your child's needs, strengths, and weaknesses and to provide them with the guidance and support they need to thrive. Focus on the process instead of merely the outcomes. Be present in moments with your child and show them that you understand their unique perspective. By doing this, your child will feel more seen and heard and be more open to learning.
Allow for Personal Exploration:
One of the most profound aspects of parenting with intention is the recognition that children are unique individuals with their own personalities. While some parents may feel a need to impose their ideas and expectations on their children, intentional parenting encourages us to step back and let our children discover themselves. Instead of creating rigid expectations that stifle your child's curiosity, encourage them to be curious and create opportunities for personal growth. Be prepared to allow for failure as much as success.
Be a Positive Example:
Children are naturally observant, and as a parent, you are their first and most influential teacher. Modeling positive verbal and nonverbal behaviors is critical, and it's something that is often neglected in traditional parenting. Instead of solely focusing on words, rules, and commands that only apply to them, pay attention to your actions and attitudes; children naturally mimic them. Being an excellent role model means being aware of how your words and actions impact those around you, including your children. Be kind, respectful, and patient—even with yourself to show that self-compassion is key when we make mistakes. This creates a positive environment for your child to learn the behaviors they will take with them into adulthood.
Guide, Don’t Force:
Guidance is essential; forceful behavior, while it may get you results in the moment out of fear, is destructive in the long term. One of the most critical aspects of parenting with intention is balancing between guiding and forcing. Encouragement and understanding are vital because they allow your child to grow into themselves—not what they “should” be according to society’s standards. They must find their rhythm of coping with life and discover what works best for them. With this, as a parent, practice observing and reflecting on your experiences with your child. Attempt to guide them through adversity and provide understanding when things become challenging.
Parenting with intention means putting your child's development and growth as the priority. Prioritizing your child's needs, allowing for personal exploration, being an excellent role model, and actively guiding them is key, which takes us going through ALL of these steps ourselves first. Parenting with intention is about committing to your values and allowing them to guide you and your child through life's ups and downs. Being intentional creates an environment of trust, openness, acceptance, and safety for your child, helping them grow into their full selves. Remember, when intention guides your parenting, the smallest of actions has the most significant impact.