Parenting is an ever-evolving journey filled with countless decisions and strategies. From helicopter parenting to gentle parenting, the spectrum is vast, and each approach comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. However, there’s a new trend on the block that’s gaining momentum among experts and parents alike: sittervising, also known as hands-off parenting.
What exactly is sittervising?
You probably know what sittervising is, but it didn’t have a name before. In fact, sittervising used to be shamed or criticized as lazy parenting. As hands-off parenting, it’s the opposite of helicopter parenting and involves taking a step back and allowing children to navigate their own experiences, solve their own problems, and entertain themselves without constant parental intervention.
The term was coined by Busy Toddler and is about letting go of the urge to constantly micromanage every aspect of our children’s lives. Sittervising gives children the space to learn, grow, and develop independence. And good news for those parents who feel burned out, it’s even expert approved!
When is sittervising appropriate?
While it might seem counterintuitive at first, sittervising can be incredibly beneficial for children of all ages. Whether it’s letting your toddler explore the backyard on their own or allowing your teenager to navigate social situations without constant supervision, there are countless opportunities for sittervising.
Experts recommend sittervising in situations where children can safely explore and learn from their surroundings without the need for constant adult intervention. This could include unstructured playtime, independent homework sessions, or even allowing children to resolve conflicts with their siblings without immediate parental interference.
Why is sittervising recommended?
Research suggests that children who are given the freedom to explore and solve problems on their own develop important life skills such as resilience, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. By allowing children to take risks and make mistakes in a safe and supportive environment, parents can help foster independence and self-confidence in their children.
Additionally, sittervising can help alleviate some of the pressure and stress that often accompanies modern parenting. By relinquishing the need to constantly monitor and control every aspect of our children’s lives, parents can enjoy greater peace of mind and a more relaxed approach to parenting.
How can parents start sittervising?
Like any parenting strategy, sittervising requires practice and patience. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Start small: Begin by gradually giving your children more freedom and autonomy in age-appropriate situations. This could involve allowing them to choose their own activities during playtime or encouraging them to solve simple problems on their own. You could even set short durations that you could increase slowly, such as let them try reading a book on their own or have them read to their toys or pets for 10 minutes at a time.
Set boundaries: While sittervising involves giving children more freedom, it’s important to establish clear boundaries and expectations to ensure their safety and well-being. Let your children know what to expect, and only practice sittervising in a safe environment. If your child is used to you being involved in their playtime, communicate that you’re focusing on your own activity but you’re close by so they feel secure while setting boundaries.
Embrace boredom: Encourage your children to embrace boredom and use it as an opportunity to explore their interests and creativity. Provide them with open-ended toys and activities that encourage imaginative play and problem-solving. This type of child-led learning is common in montessori education, where specific instructions aren’t provided. Choose toys or activities that interest them, such as drawing for the artistic child, or outdoor play for the physical child.
Be patient: Remember that sittervising is a process, especially if you’re used to being very hands on responding immediately to your child’s every need. This can be a difficult transition for many parents as their child moves from infant to toddler, but luckily many toddlers enter an independent stage on their own. So embrace their growing independence, but be patient with yourself and your children as you navigate this new approach to parenting.
Sittervising offers parents a refreshing alternative to constant supervision and micromanagement. By allowing children the freedom to explore, learn, and grow on their own terms, parents can help foster independence, resilience, and self-confidence in their children. So why not give sittervising a try and see where the journey takes you?
