The Generational Shift: Embracing Change in Parenting

In many societies, there is a strong sense of tradition when it comes to parenting. Older generations often look at the ways their children or younger parents raise their own children with a critical eye. In African societies, especially, parenting has long been shaped by norms and values passed down through generations. The idea that children should be disciplined and kept in line through strict, sometimes rigid rules has been the foundation of many households. However, as the world around us changes, so too must the ways in which we approach parenting.

As time moves on, new generations bring with them fresh perspectives, and this includes Gen Z parents. The younger generation, often labeled as "Gen Z," has been subject to criticism by older generations who view their methods as a deviation from traditional values. In many households, older parents see these new ways of parenting as a threat to societal structure, seeing the softer, more compassionate approach as a disgrace to the established order. They argue that children need strong discipline and that leniency will result in disrespect, rebellion, and a lack of responsibility.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that times are meant to change, and life should not be viewed as a standstill. The world we live in today is vastly different from the one our parents or grandparents grew up in. The challenges faced by children today are not the same as they were decades ago. Technology has transformed the way we communicate, socialize, and learn. Mental health, gender equality, and social inclusion are now open topics of conversation—things that weren’t as openly discussed in the past. As society moves forward, it is only natural for parenting styles to evolve as well.

Gen Z parents, while criticized for their approach, are actually attempting to create a more understanding and supportive environment for their children. They focus on teaching respect through positive reinforcement rather than punishment. They emphasize emotional well-being, encourage open communication, and try to teach their children how to manage their emotions, relationships, and challenges in healthy ways. They understand that their children will one day have to navigate a world that’s fast-paced, interconnected, and constantly changing, and they want to equip them with the tools to succeed in that world.

The shift in parenting is not about abandoning traditional values but about adapting them to suit today’s realities. While older generations may have raised their children in an environment where strictness and discipline were the main pillars, Gen Z parents are recognizing that the world today requires a more holistic approach. It’s not just about teaching children how to behave; it’s about teaching them how to think, how to feel, and how to build relationships. It’s about fostering resilience and emotional intelligence, skills that are increasingly important in today’s society.

The criticism from older generations toward Gen Z parents often stems from a fear of change. They see the new approach as too lenient or too permissive. But in reality, it’s a shift toward recognizing the importance of mental health, emotional support, and individuality. Instead of shutting down or punishing children for making mistakes, Gen Z parents try to guide their children, offering them the opportunity to learn from their actions in a compassionate way.

In many ways, the younger generation of parents is challenging long-held norms and traditions, pushing for a more open-minded and empathetic approach to raising children. And while it’s important to respect tradition, it’s equally important to recognize that the world has changed, and so have the needs of today’s children. The shift in parenting is not about throwing away the values of the past, but about integrating those values with the understanding that life moves forward. By embracing change and seeing the positive aspects of new parenting methods, we can create a future where children are equipped not only with the skills to survive but also with the emotional intelligence to thrive.

Times are meant to change, and it’s through change that societies grow and evolve. Instead of viewing new parenting styles as a disgrace, older generations need to give room for the new wave of parents who are striving to make a positive impact. Change isn’t something to fear; it’s something to embrace. By supporting this shift, we open up the opportunity for future generations to grow up in a more inclusive, emotionally healthy, and resilient society.