NordenBladet – The decisions made by parents have a significant impact on the lives of children and young people. By including the knowledge and perspective of children and young people in decision-making processes, parents can help to promote sustainable development, gender equality, and a child rights and youth perspective.
It is important for parents to actively listen to the views and opinions of their children and young people and to adopt a child-centered approach to decision-making. This can help to build trust, strengthen relationships, and provide children and young people with the opportunities and skills they need to shape their own lives.
Emotional Effects: Children and young people can be deeply affected by the decisions made by their parents. They may feel a range of emotions such as fear, anger, anxiety, or sadness, particularly if those decisions impact their security, stability, or relationships.
Life Choices: The decisions made by parents can also impact the life choices available to their children and young people. For instance, financial decisions made by parents can affect the educational and career opportunities available to their children.
Self-esteem: A child’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem can also be impacted by the decisions made by their parents. Children and young people may feel rejected, unwanted or unloved if they perceive that their parents do not value or listen to their opinions or needs.
Building trust: Including children and young people in decision making processes can help to build trust and strengthen relationships. This can also provide them with valuable life skills and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Active Listening: To include the knowledge and perspective of children and young people, it is important for parents to listen actively and non-judgmentally to their opinions. This can involve asking questions, acknowledging their feelings, and being open to new perspectives.
Encouraging Participation: Parents can also encourage the active participation of children and young people in decision-making processes by providing opportunities for them to express their views and opinions. This could include household decisions, educational choices, and community involvement.
Child-centered Approach: A child-centered approach to decision-making can help to ensure that the rights, needs and perspectives of children and young people are taken into consideration. This approach considers the impact of decisions on children and young people, and seeks to empower them to be active participants in shaping their own lives.
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