Parenting without pressure, and the parents who struggle in between

"Let's nurture their interests" and "Let's not force them."
Nurseries and kindergartens with such policies have increased, and child-centered education has become the norm.

In recent nurseries, even lunch time is not "all at once," butsome schools have adopted a style where children start eating at their own pace.As for activities,
more schools are encouraging children to choose and focus on what they like,and the format of events like recitals seems to have changed significantly from before.

Certainly,fostering self-esteem is very important.
But on the other hand, more parents are having these doubts.

"Is it okay to just keep avoiding things they aren't good at?"
"Won't they grow up without knowing how to persevere?"

These doubts often appear as a "wall" after they enter junior high or high school.

They will face this in various situations, such as studies, interpersonal relationships, and club activities.

In other words, what is important is

"the power to continue"
"the power to persevere"
"the power to compromise with others"

.

And,all of these are based on experiences in early childhood.

Of course, there is no need to force them too much.

What is important is
to apply a moderate amount of pressure.

These small experiences
will become a great strength for the future.

I am currently raising two boys, one in his final year of kindergarten and one in the sixth grade of elementary school.

As a parent,
it is natural to wish for your child's future happiness.

That is precisely why I end up nagging them.

"What will you do if your mother suddenly gets sick or is no longer here? At that time, it's not just about relying on someone else,

you have to be able to do things for yourself, right?"

And when my child seems to be struggling, I truly feel from the bottom of my heart, **"It is enough that you are healthy."**

Everyone has their own way of thinking.
There is surely not just one correct answer.

Even so, while struggling,
I am facing my children again today.

Protecting children and training them are not contradictory.
Rather, this is an era where both are necessary.

The small sacrifices made today
will become the "invisible strength" that supports your child ten years from now.

Even while feeling anxious,
I still want to believe.

As one such "ordinary parent,"
I hope to continue walking this path.