How Does RIE Parenting Work?

RIE parenting is based on several principles that guide the interactions between parents and children. Some of these principles are:

• Respect: RIE parenting respects the child as a whole person, with their own feelings, thoughts, needs, and preferences. RIE parenting also respects the parent as a separate person, with their own feelings, thoughts, needs, and preferences. Respect is shown by communicating honestly, listening attentively, observing carefully, and avoiding manipulation or coercion.
• Trust: RIE parenting trusts the child’s innate abilities and potential to learn and grow. RIE parenting also trusts the parent’s intuition and judgment to provide appropriate guidance and support. Trust is shown by allowing the child to explore the world at their own pace, encouraging the child to solve their own problems, and avoiding unnecessary intervention or interference.
• Connection: RIE parenting values the relationship between the parent and the child as the foundation for healthy development. RIE parenting also values the connection between the child and their environment as a source of stimulation and learning. Connection is shown by being present and attentive, responding sensitively and consistently, providing a safe and predictable environment, and offering quality time and attention.
• Autonomy: RIE parenting supports the child’s independence and self-reliance. RIE parenting also supports the parent’s boundaries and self-care. Autonomy is shown by giving the child choices and options, respecting the child’s opinions and preferences, allowing the child to express their emotions and needs, and honoring the parent’s limits and needs.

What Are the Pros and Cons of RIE Parenting?

Like any parenting approach, RIE parenting has its advantages and disadvantages. Some of them are:

Pros

• RIE parenting can foster a strong bond between the parent and the child, based on mutual respect and trust.
• RIE parenting can promote the child’s confidence, creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.
• RIE parenting can reduce stress and conflict in the family, by avoiding power struggles and tantrums.
• RIE parenting can save money on toys and gear, by focusing on simple and natural materials that stimulate the child’s senses and imagination.
• RIE parenting can be adapted to fit each child’s individual needs and personality.

Cons

• RIE parenting can be challenging to implement in a busy and hectic lifestyle, as it requires time, patience, attention, and consistency.
• RIE parenting can be misunderstood or criticized by others who have different views or expectations on how to raise children.
• RIE parenting can be difficult to balance with other responsibilities or obligations that may require more structure or discipline.
• RIE parenting can be hard to maintain in certain situations or environments that may not be conducive or supportive of this approach.
• RIE parenting can be overwhelming or confusing for some parents who may need more guidance or support.

How to Implement RIE Parenting in Your Life?

If you are interested in trying out RIE parenting in your life, here are some tips on how to get started:

• Educate yourself: Learn more about the principles and practices of RIE parenting by reading books, articles, blogs, podcasts, or videos on this topic. Some of the recommended resources are:

  • “Your Self-Confident Baby” by Magda Gerber
  • “Elevating Child Care” by Janet Lansbury
  • “No Bad Kids” by Janet Lansbury
  • “Baby Knows Best” by Deborah Carlisle Solomon
  • “The Educaring Approach” by Ruth Anne Hammond
  • “Janet Lansbury Unruffled” podcast
  • “RIE Parenting Basics (9 Ways To Put Respect Into Action)” video by Janet Lansbury

• Observe your child: Pay attention to your child’s cues, signals, expressions, gestures, sounds, movements, interests, preferences, strengths, challenges, emotions, and needs. Try to understand your child’s perspective and experience of the world. Avoid making assumptions or judgments about your child. Appreciate your child’s uniqueness and individuality.

• Communicate with your child: Talk to your child in a clear, calm, and respectful manner. Use simple and honest words that your child can understand. Explain what you are doing and why. Ask for your child’s permission or cooperation. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and thoughts. Listen to your child’s responses and feedback. Avoid using baby talk, sarcasm, or threats.

• Connect with your child: Spend quality time with your child, without distractions or interruptions. Be fully present and attentive to your child. Respond to your child’s needs and wants in a sensitive and consistent way. Provide physical and emotional comfort and security to your child. Express your love and affection to your child. Enjoy your child’s company and have fun together.

• Support your child’s autonomy: Give your child choices and options that are appropriate for their age and stage of development. Respect your child’s opinions and preferences, even if they are different from yours. Allow your child to express their emotions and needs, even if they are negative or unpleasant. Honor your child’s limits and boundaries, even if they are inconvenient or frustrating. Encourage your child to solve their own problems, even if they make mistakes or fail.