Parenting in India: Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Here is what you should do and what you should avoid when parenting in India!

Indian parents are often burdened with the delicate task of weaving tradition and modernity together. The rapid digitalisation of society has ushered in new challenges and opportunities, reshaping the parenting landscape. Many questions arise when the world around us is changing so rapidly.

It is only natural to wonder whether you are doing what is right for your child. In fact, this is precisely what makes you a great parent! The fact that you are taking the time and effort to provide the best life for your little one is what parenting in India is about.

The dynamic nature of parenting with numerous affecting factors ensures that there is no single rulebook for parenting in India, or anywhere else in the world for that matter. However, in the rapidly digitising India, there are a few common dos and don’ts that are specific to the values of the country. Read on to find out what these are, and embark on an enlightening journey as we explore the art of balancing tradition and modernity in parenting in India.

Parenting in India: Traditional or Modern?

Parenting in India can be a challenging journey as you navigate the intricate path that lies between traditional values and the allure of modern simplicity. Deeply rooted in culture and familial expectations, traditions are not to be forgotten easily.

Yet, the call for modern parenting practices is equally important in this digital age, where the world is a global village of ideas flowing seamlessly across borders. Let’s delve deep into the heart of Indian parenting, exploring the time-honored traditions that define family life and the contemporary techniques essential in the digital age. 

Traditional Indian parenting emphasises the values of respect, discipline, and familial bonds from an early age. However, the values of independence, individuality, and privacy rooted in the more modern life of today are just as important for a child. Successful parenting in India requires a delicate balance of these two approaches. Tradition offers the threads of stability, heritage, and identity, while modernity focuses on adaptability, innovation, and global awareness. 

The answer to parenting in India lies in understanding that both traditional and modern values have their merits. The former guides moral compasses, while the latter prepares children for a future yet to unfold. It is not about choosing one over the other but about finding a balance that can shape well-rounded, culturally rooted, and globally aware individuals.

Parenting in the Digital India: Dos and Don’ts :

As the whole world is going digital rapidly, India is not lagging behind. And in this bustling realm of digital India, parenting takes on a new dimension, laden with both opportunities and challenges. You are presented with new parenting challenges like never before without a precedent to follow. When even classes are conducted virtually, it can be difficult to parent without being too rigid or too loose. But these dos and don’ts are exactly what you need to get started!

Dos

• Learn Together: Figure out new things together with your child. Foster open communication, talking about technology, education, interests, etc.
• Set Limits: Establish screen time boundaries and parental controls for children. Get their input to help balance study and recreation. 
• Teach Safety: Talk about online safety issues such as privacy, passwords, socialisation, bullying, etc, to educate your children.
• Mindful Posting: Teach responsible social media posting habits. Children under a certain age shouldn’t be on social media at all. 
• Lead by Example: Demonstrate healthy digital habits to influence your child positively. Remember, they do what they see you do.
  

Don’ts

• Unsupervised Access: Unsupervised access to the internet and social media should not be allowed, especially for younger children.
• Pry Unnecessarily: Don’t intrude into your child’s personal space, especially behind their back. Be open and honest while ensuring safety. 
• Sleep Disruptions: Discourage the use of digital devices for at least a while before bedtime to ensure quality sleep.
• Addictive Patterns: If your child shows any addictive tendencies, do not ignore them. Overreliance on technology is a call for help.
• Neglect Real Interactions: Face-to-face interactions and quality time in real life cannot be substituted with digital devices.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance!

In the dynamic landscape of parenting in India, finding the right balance is crucial.

It is all about nurturing modern values while holding on to the deep-rooted traditions that span hundreds of generations. Only by embracing the positives, setting boundaries, and fostering open communication can parents understand the unique balance of tradition and modernity their child needs. By honoring the Indian heritage and leveraging the advantages of the digital age, parents can guide their children towards a better future– one where they inherit the best of both worlds!