1. What Is Taking Children Seriously?
Taking Children Seriously (TCS) is a group that emphasizes the importance of following a more relaxed parenting style. Instead of using corporal or harsh punishment to discipline a child, you work as a family to get through the problem. Many of the theories suggested by Taking Children Seriously stem from the works of Karl Popper. The founders applied his philosophical notions of educational theory to form the basis of their parenting movement.
2. The Philosophy of TCS
At the core of TCS is the idea that all people make mistakes. If you accept this fact, then you'll not force your own will upon a child. You need to work through problems together, so no one gets hurt in the process. While following TCS, you need to avoid coercing the child into something that goes against his will. At the same time, you mustn't go against your will as a way to correct the child. During a conflict, you must attempt to find a resolution that satisfies all parties. The TCS philosophers recognize that this may not always work out and some conflicts need to stay unresolved.
3. The Application Process
Although the TCS philosophy sounds good, you have to learn to apply it to real life situations with your child. Instead of thinking of yourself as a disciplinarian, you must imagine yourself as an advisor to your child. You can give her advice, but not discipline her if she doesn't always take it. As a parent, you can give your child the right resources to make good decisions in her life. You want your child to live free in order to ensure she lives a happy and fulfilled existence. For example, if your child touches something she's not supposed to, figure out a way to agree on how you can both get what you want.
4. TCS Critics
Many parenting experts claim that children need limits and actually thrive when they receive appropriate discipline from their parents. This creates a structured environment for your child and the child feels more secure. If you utilize TCS, you give the child too much freedom and he'll not know how to handle it. Many experts claim that children can't yet be treated as equals because they lack the social skills needed to correctly take advantage of their freedom.
5. Make It Work for You
If you do want to try Taking Children Seriously, you could choose parts of the philosophy that suit your parenting style. One of the main teachings to take away from TCS is the idea that you should think of kids as people too. You can set limits, but enforce them in a fair way that's not just enforcing your own will. However, you may find that giving a child too much freedom without any rules backfires on both of you.
