Ever wondered what the world looks like through your Child’s eyes? At Aarohi DEEP, we recently conducted our Parent Circle with two “child consultants,” Neil and Prathati. Honestly, it was a reality check. It felt like a “slap” of realization that made us rethink our parenting perspective.
If you are feeling the weight of being a parent, here is what we learned about making the journey lighter and more connected.
Ditch the “Output” Pressure
We often fall into the trap of asking, “What did you get done today?” or “What was the output?”. Our consultants told us straight: that question is scary. It makes a child’s mind go blank. When we focus only on results, kids stop feeling open to sharing.
Instead of acting like investigators, why not just start with, “How was your day?”. Better yet, ask if they even feel like sharing before diving in with questions. This simple shift in parenting perspective creates a safe space for conversation.
Planning Doesn’t Need Pen and Paper
Many of us struggle because our kids hate writing plans in a book—it feels like a chore. However, planning doesn’t have to be formal to be real.
We can get creative! For example, try using coins to rate activities or a visual wheel to check things off. You can even turn reflection into a game by throwing a ball with prompts on it. Don’t worry about planning days in advance; just talking about the next 15 minutes is a great way to start.
Let Them Lead (For Real)
It is easy to think that because we are “mature” adults, we always have to be leader. But the truth is, our kids can lead us, too. One of our biggest takeaways was the need to trust them fully.
We need to stop worrying about “future careers” and just be present with who they are right now and go with the flow.
Handling the “Wonky” Moments
We all deal with screen time loops and random “wonky” moods. When it comes to TV, sometimes the best way out is to let them get bored of it. You can do this by restricting choices or offering simple alternatives like paints and paper.
When conflicts happen, it is usually better to talk it out than to fill it inside. Just remember that some kids might need space and “less shouting” before they are ready for that talk.
You are Enough (Without the “Skills”)
We often think we need special “parenting skills” to get this right. But the kids told us we don’t. What they actually need is for us to go with the flow and be more creative.
They aren’t looking for a perfect manager; they are looking for emotional stability. Sometimes, they just want us to listen to them vent without saying a word or judging them.
Share More, Interrogate Less
If your child goes blank when you ask questions, try sharing your own day first. Talk about your highs, your lows, and the things that didn’t go as planned. When we open up, it creates a safe space for them to do the same. Real connection comes from genuine curiosity, not an interrogation.
So, let’s breathe out, drop the guilt, and enjoy the process of growing alongside our children. Let’s make a deal: less interrogating, more sharing. When we adjust our parenting perspective to trust them, we get closer to the heart of what parenting is really about—just being there.
Here is a clip from our session –