Faulty parenting patterns are often passed down from generation to generation without realization. Many parents raise their children in the same way they were raised, without considering whether these methods are still relevant or even healthy for their child’s development. This creates a cycle of ineffective parenting that can even be harmful. To build a younger generation that is physically and emotionally strong, resilient, adaptable, and mentally healthy, we must consciously break these flawed parenting patterns and replace them with approaches that align with modern developments.

One of the parenting styles that needs reevaluation is the use of physical punishment and authoritarian approaches in raising children. Many parents believe that strict discipline will result in strong and obedient children. However, research shows that physical punishment and authoritarian attitudes can lead to trauma, lower a child’s self-confidence, and make them afraid to make their own decisions. As a result, children grow up overly dependent on authority and lack resilience and critical thinking skills.

Instead, parents should adopt a more democratic and compassionate parenting style. This does not mean letting children do whatever they want without boundaries but rather guiding them through open and understanding communication. This way, children will learn to understand the consequences of their actions, develop independence, and take responsibility for their decisions.

Additionally, parents must also pay attention to their child’s mental health. Excessive academic pressure is often a major source of stress for children. An education system that focuses too much on academic achievement without considering emotional development can lead to anxiety and depression at an early age. Therefore, it is important for parents not only to focus on academic success but also to equip their children with strong social and emotional skills. This can be done by allowing children to explore their creativity, supporting their hobbies, and teaching them how to handle failure in a healthy way.

Adaptability is another crucial factor in shaping a resilient younger generation. The world is constantly changing, and children need to be equipped with skills that allow them to adjust to various situations. One way to foster this ability is by giving children opportunities to explore new experiences, both academically and non-academically. Parents who encourage their children to try new things without fear of failure help them develop strong and flexible mental resilience.

Moreover, family communication patterns play a vital role in shaping a child’s character. Parents who frequently dismiss their child’s opinions or do not allow them to express their thoughts and emotions may raise individuals who are passive and lack confidence. Therefore, building healthy communication habits—such as actively listening to children, respecting their opinions, and providing constructive feedback—helps them grow into critical thinkers with strong reasoning skills.

It is also essential to teach children the value of perseverance and determination. One common mistake in parenting is the tendency to give children everything instantly without teaching them the effort and process required to achieve something. Children who grow up receiving things easily tend to undervalue hard work and are more likely to give up when faced with challenges. Therefore, parents must provide experiences that teach children the importance of effort, persistence, and hard work.

Equally important, parents must set a good example for their children. Many parents expect their children to develop good habits such as discipline, hard work, and a positive attitude, but they fail to demonstrate these behaviors themselves. Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear. Therefore, if we want to raise a younger generation that is strong both physically and emotionally, parents must first exhibit the behaviors they wish to instill in their children.

In facing the challenges of the modern world, it is crucial for parents to continuously learn and adapt to better parenting approaches. Breaking the cycle of faulty parenting is not an easy task, but with awareness, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, positive changes can be achieved. By doing so, we can create a younger generation that is better prepared to face life’s challenges, equipped with strong mental health, resilience, and adaptability. A better future for our children begins with the parenting we practice today.