1.
"How do you respond to critiques that permissive parenting leads to behavioral
issues?”
"Gentle Parenting is not permissive parenting. It involves setting boundaries through
calm communication and emotional coaching—not punishment. Behavioral issues often
stem from unmet emotional needs. Gentle Parenting addresses these needs early,
which helps prevent such issues."
Our possible follow up
"But without firm consequences, how do children learn accountability or understand the
seriousness of their actions?"
2. "Does reliance on digital devices replace genuine emotional connection?"
3. "Gentle Parenting encourages emotional connection with or without technology.
Screen time is managed with intention and balance. In fact, we use digital resources to
support parenting—like emotional regulation videos, mindfulness apps, etc."
Our possible follow up
"But isn’t it easier for parents to hand kids a tablet than to engage them in real
emotional conversations? Doesn’t that reduce face-to-face bonding?"
4. "If modern parenting is more ‘child-centered,’ who’s actually in control—the parent
or the child?
5. "Being child-centered doesn’t mean the child is in control—it means their
developmental and emotional needs are considered in decision-making. Control is
shared in a respectful way, rather than imposed through fear."
Our Possible Follow-Up:
"If children are constantly consulted, doesn’t it delay important decisions and reduce
respect for parental authority?"
4. "If modern parenting is supposedly better, why are mental health issues among kids
more visible than ever?"
"Mental health issues are not necessarily caused by parenting styles. Increased
awareness and reduced stigma have led to more diagnoses and conversations. Gentle
Parenting actually supports mental health by allowing emotional expression instead of
suppressing it."
Our Possible Follow-Up:
"But could excessive validation of emotions lead to emotional fragility and low
frustration tolerance later in life?"
5. "Do you believe modern parenting blurs the lines between parent and friend?"
"Gentle Parenting emphasizes respect, not friendship. The parent remains the guide, but
through empathy, not authority. There’s a difference between being emotionally
available and being permissive."
Our Possible Follow-Up:
"Still, if a parent avoids authority, isn’t there a risk that children won’t take them
seriously when rules are needed?”
6. "Can modern parenting work for lower-income families in the Philippines who have
limited time and resources?"
"Yes. Gentle Parenting is about attitude and intention, not expensive tools or time-
consuming techniques. Even busy parents can communicate calmly, listen actively, and
avoid harsh discipline."
Our Possible Follow-Up:
"But traditional parenting methods, like a quick 'discipline tap' or firm rules, are seen as
practical and culturally embedded. Is Gentle Parenting realistic in homes with five or
more kids and working parents?"
6. "Modern parenting discourages strict discipline. How do Filipino parents ensure
boundaries are respected without it?"
7. We use natural consequences and clear, calm communication. Boundaries are
enforced with consistency, not force.Discipline doesn’t have to mean punishment—it
means teaching."
Our Possible Follow-Up:
“Without a fear of consequence, what stops children from repeating the same behaviors
over and over again?"
8. "Isn’t there a risk that modern parenting, which often borrows from Western ideas,
could erode Filipino cultural identity?"
"Cultural evolution is natural. Not everything from the past should be preserved—
especially if it causes emotional harm. We can still teach respect and community values
without fear-based discipline."
Our Possible Follow-Up:
But if you reject core practices like ‘paggalang’ or obedience to elders, are we not slowly
letting go of what makes Filipino families unique? Is this parenting truly Filipino, or is it a
Western import?
8. "How do you handle a child who consistently disrespects you or others, despite
gentle correction?"
"We investigate the root cause of the disrespect. Behavior is communication.
Maybe the child is struggling emotionally or needs better modeling."
"We remain consistent in setting respectful boundaries through calm, firm
conversations. Over time, kids learn through trust and repetition."
Our Follow-Up:
"But if that behavior keeps happening, how long do you wait before you consider
the approach ineffective? Isn’t it enabling rather than correcting?"
"In a society where respect is a core value, don’t we risk normalizing
disobedience or disrespect if there are no real consequences?"
10 "What happens when a child from a gentle household enters a harsh real-world
setting, like a strict school or job—will they be able to cope?"
"Gentle Parenting equips kids with emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
These are powerful tools to cope with challenges."
"Instead of blindly obeying authority, they’ll know how to express their
boundaries and think critically, which is useful in any setting."
Our Follow-Up:
"But is emotional intelligence enough if the environment demands obedience or
toughness? What if they break down under pressure?"
"Aren’t you preparing them for an ideal world, not the actual one we live in—
especially here in the Philippines where hierarchy is still strong?"
11. "How do you protect your child from entitlement if you always validate their
feelings and rarely correct them harshly?"
"Validation isn’t the same as agreeing. We still hold boundaries while helping them
process emotions. They’re not allowed to be disrespectful just because they’re upset."
"Entitlement comes from inconsistency or overindulgence—not from being
understood."
Our Follow-Up:
"But if they rarely experience frustration, how will they handle not getting their
way later in life? Doesn’t that risk breeding unrealistic expectations?"
"Isn’t struggle part of building resilience, and if you protect them from it too
much, don’t they become emotionally fragile?"
