Parenting today looks a lot different than it did a generation ago. With social media, expert blogs, and influencer moms and dads guiding the way, many modern parenting styles have gained popularity. But according to child development specialists, not every approach that’s trending is actually helpful. In fact, some parenting styles could be doing more harm than good in the long run.

Let’s take a closer look at seven common parenting styles that experts say deserve a second thought.

Sharenting: Cute Posts with Hidden Risks

Posting about your kids online—photos, birthday videos, report card celebrations—has become second nature for many parents. It’s called “sharenting,” and while the intention is often harmless, experts are raising red flags.

Sharing your child’s life online without their consent can create privacy issues. Strangers can see and misuse this information. And as kids grow up, they might feel embarrassed or violated by what was shared when they were younger. Plus, all this data contributes to a digital footprint that could follow them for life.

So before uploading that funny tantrum clip, ask yourself: Would my child be okay with this five years from now?

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Gentle Parenting: Great in Theory, But Unrealistic for Many

Gentle parenting emphasizes empathy, respect, and understanding a child’s emotional world. It sounds beautiful. But for many parents, trying to live up to this ideal can be incredibly stressful.

The pressure to be endlessly patient and avoid all forms of discipline can leave parents feeling like failures when reality kicks in. Worse, if there’s no structure or boundaries, children can miss out on crucial lessons about responsibility and consequences.

The truth is, gentle parenting works for some families—but not all. And that’s okay. You don’t need to be perfect, just consistent and loving in a way that fits your child’s needs and your own mental well-being.

Helicopter Parenting: When Protection Turns Into Control

This style is all about staying deeply involved in every part of your child’s life—too involved, in fact. Helicopter parents hover over their kids to protect them from failure or disappointment. But in trying to prevent pain, they also block learning opportunities.

Kids need space to make mistakes, bounce back, and figure things out for themselves. Without that, they might struggle to cope with stress later on. Constant interference can also chip away at a child’s confidence, sending the message that they aren’t capable without mom or dad stepping in.

It’s important to support your child, but let them fall, try again, and grow stronger.

Over-Scheduling: When Childhood Feels Like a Checklist

From music lessons to sports practice to after-school tutoring, some kids barely have time to breathe. Overscheduling is a common parenting habit driven by good intentions—but it can backfire fast.

Children need unstructured play. It’s how they learn to imagine, relax, and reset. Filling every hour of the day might look productive, but it often leads to burnout, stress, and less time for family bonding or friendships.

Also, when every moment is planned, kids lose the chance to make their own choices and learn independence. Watch your child’s energy and excitement. If they’re always tired or overwhelmed, it may be time to slow down.

Over-Praising: When Compliments Do More Harm Than Good

Encouraging kids is essential—but constantly telling them they’re amazing at everything can backfire. Over-praising can make children rely on external validation instead of building inner confidence.

Too much praise can lead to fear of failure, pressure to always be the best, or even arrogance. It may also make it harder for kids to take criticism, which is crucial for learning and growth.

Instead, focus on praising effort, not just outcomes. Say things like “I’m proud of how hard you worked,” rather than “You’re the smartest!” This builds resilience and a growth mindset.

Using Screen Time as a Reward or Punishment

It’s common to give kids extra screen time as a reward for good behavior—or to take it away as a punishment. But this can turn screens into an obsession.

When screen time is treated like a prize, kids want it even more. They may also lose interest in more meaningful activities like outdoor play, reading, or quality time with family.

Plus, tying screens to behavior can make children focus on getting rewards instead of understanding why good behavior matters. Try offering non-digital rewards instead, like a bike ride, a game night, or picking dinner. These build better habits and stronger connections.

Lighthouse Parenting: Balanced but Tricky to Master

Lighthouse parenting, introduced by pediatrician Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, suggests parents act as a steady light—visible, supportive, but not overbearing. You’re there to guide your child through life’s storms without steering the ship for them.

It’s a great concept, but hard to pull off. Knowing when to step in and when to let go can be confusing. Plus, inconsistent application of this approach can send mixed signals to kids.

Still, this style holds promise. It allows children to develop independence while knowing their parents have their back. The key is to be present, patient, and flexible. Each child is different, so lighthouse parenting should be adapted to fit their needs.

Final Thoughts

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At the end of the day, no parenting style is perfect. Trends will come and go, and what works for one family may not work for another. The goal isn’t to follow every expert tip to the letter—it’s to raise happy, resilient, and well-adjusted kids in a way that works for your household.

Take what serves your family and leave the rest. Parenting is a journey, not a formula. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and always be willing to adjust as you and your child grow together.