Summary

In this episode, we explore how parenting has transformed over the past 30 years—from the era of strict discipline, caning, and “because I said so,” to today’s focus on emotional connection, autonomy, and child-centered communication.

Drawing from personal stories of growing up in the 90s and raising a toddler in a digital age, we compare the past and present: from outdoor play to screen time, from handwritten letters to instant messaging, and from face-to-face conversations to family group chats.

We also break down the four key parenting styles—authoritarian, permissive, uninvolved, and authoritative—highlighting how each affects a child’s behaviour and personality.

Ultimately, while times have changed, the heart of parenting remains the same: raising children who grow with compassion, confidence, and the ability to make a positive impact in the world.

Episode Pointers

1. Parenting Then vs Now

• The shift from physical discipline (rotan, spanking) to timeouts, logical consequences & communication.
  
• How children used to play outdoors freely vs today’s structured, overscheduled childhood.
  
• Technology’s role: from dial-up internet to instant messaging; from photo albums to smartphone galleries.
  

2. Modern Parenting Pressure

• Dual-income families → less time → more guilt → more enrichment classes.
  
• Parents trying to “pack meaning” into the 1–2 hours before bedtime.
  

3. Tech and Connection

• Easier communication between parents, kids, and teachers through digital tools.
  
• Downsides: cyberbullying, reduced face-to-face communication, device distraction at home.
  
• The need to unplug and engage emotionally.
  

4. Nostalgic Throwbacks

• Texting family members who live under the same roof.
  
• Public phones, pen pals, radio, MTV, physical CDs, photo development.
  
• Travelling and dining out without iPads or screens.
  

5. The Four Parenting Styles

• Authoritarian – strict rules, low warmth, “Because I said so.”
  
• Permissive – warm, indulgent, few rules, wants to be the child’s friend.
  
• Uninvolved – absent, minimal monitoring or emotional support.
  
• Authoritative – balanced warmth, structure, communication, age-appropriate boundaries (the recommended style).
  

6. Reflection Questions for Parents

• How did your parents discipline you? How do you discipline your child?
  
• What motivates your child today vs what motivated you before?
  
• What do you give your children that you wished you had growing up?
  

7. How Parenting Shapes Personality

• Parental behaviour (not genes) forms trust, confidence, problem-solving skills & emotional security.
  
• Example: lying to kids breaks trust; neglect leads to attention-seeking behaviour.
  

Parenting evolves with society, but the mission stays the same:
To raise children who are compassionate, confident, and ready to contribute positively to the world.