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Jamal Ahmelich is a registered clinical counsellor through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. His philosophy of therapy is that the client/counsellor relationship is of utmost importance in promoting change and as such, always uses a client centered, strengths based approach.

Barbara Coloroso, a renowned parenting educator and author, has developed a unique and empowering approach to raising children that emphasizes respect, responsibility, and resilience. Her philosophy is grounded in the belief that children thrive in an environment where they feel valued and empowered. In this post, we will explore the key principles of this powerful parenting approach and how they can contribute to nurturing well-rounded and confident individuals.

  1. Three Types of Families: Coloroso identifies three types of families based on their parenting styles: brickwall, jellyfish, and backbone. The brickwall parent is strict and authoritarian, imposing rigid rules without room for negotiation. The jellyfish parent, on the other hand, is overly permissive and lacks boundaries. Coloroso advocates for the backbone parent, who provides structure and guidance while also encouraging independence and responsibility.
  2. Teaching Children Responsibility: Central to Coloroso’s approach is the idea of teaching children to be responsible for their actions. Instead of relying on punishment, she encourages parents to help children understand the consequences of their choices. By doing so, children learn to make thoughtful decisions and become accountable for their behavior.
  3. Use of Natural Consequences: Coloroso emphasizes the importance of allowing children to experience natural consequences. Rather than shielding them from every mistake or misstep, parents can use these moments as valuable learning opportunities. This helps children develop problem-solving skills and resilience, preparing them for the challenges they will face in the real world.
  4. Building a Culture of Respect: Respect is a cornerstone of Coloroso’s parenting philosophy. She advocates for treating children with the same level of respect that we expect from them. By fostering open communication, active listening, and empathy, parents can create a home environment where children feel heard and valued.
  5. No More “I’m the Boss” Mentality: Coloroso challenges the traditional authoritarian approach to parenting, where the parent is seen as the unquestionable authority figure. Instead, she promotes a collaborative approach where parents and children work together to solve problems and make decisions. This not only fosters a sense of autonomy in children but also strengthens the parent-child relationship.
  6. Encouraging Positive Discipline: Rather than resorting to punitive measures, Coloroso advocates for positive discipline techniques that focus on teaching, guiding, and setting appropriate boundaries. This approach helps children understand the reasons behind rules and encourages them to make choices based on empathy and consideration for others.

Barbara Coloroso’s approach to parenting offers a refreshing perspective that empowers both parents and children. By embracing principles of responsibility, respect, and resilience, parents can create a nurturing environment where children can thrive and develop into confident, compassionate individuals. As parents navigate the complexities of parenting, Coloroso’s insights serve as a guide for fostering strong connections and raising resilient, responsible, and respectful children.

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