S hining the L ight on L ighthouse P arenting
PARENTS SET BOUNDARIES AND OFFER SUPPORT. Unlike authoritarian parenting, which might stifle a child’s sense of independence, lighthouse parenting encourages self-reliance through trust and minimal but firm boundaries. Parents provide the framework, trusting the kids to make good decisions. This method helps to build a robust support system where children know they have the safety net of their parents’ guidance when needed. KEEP THE LIGHT ON Adopting the lighthouse method involves unconditional love paired with expectations and boundaries. It’s about guiding children through the complexities of growing up without removing the essential experiences that teach them about life. Of course, no single parenting style is perfect for every child. How you reinforce lighthouse parenting depends entirely on your child’s needs and developmental trajectory. Ultimately, lighthouse parenting aims to prepare children to thrive independently, ensuring they know the way back to shore, no matter how far away they sail.
A BALANCED APPROACH TO RAISING INDEPENDENT CHILDREN
IT ADVOCATES FOR A BALANCED APPROACH. Lighthouse parenting positions itself in the sweet spot on the parenting spectrum — not as overbearing as helicopter parenting nor as detached as free-range parenting. It focuses on being emotionally present and available, providing a safe space for children to bring up issues and learn from their experiences. This method involves: • Checking in Regularly: Ensuring open lines of communication. • Encouraging Autonomy: Allowing kids the freedom to make decisions and learn from the outcomes. • Promoting Resilience: Supporting children as they navigate challenges, helping them to develop coping skills and independence.
Among the countless parenting styles out there, an approach called “lighthouse parenting” is a beacon for guiding children through life’s turbulent waters while giving them the space to navigate on their own. While it may sound ideal, is it the right parenting style for your kids? WHAT IS LIGHTHOUSE PARENTING? Coined by Dr. Ken Ginsburg, a professor of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, lighthouse parenting is a philosophy detailed in his book “Raising Kids to Thrive.” This approach emphasizes a balance of nurturing and communicating with children while allowing them the freedom to grow independently. Just as a lighthouse guides without steering the ship itself, lighthouse parents offer direction and ensure safety without overly controlling their children’s lives.
GUARDIANSHIP VS. CONSERVATORSHIP
W hich O ne I s R ight for Y our L oved O ne ?
In recent years, the media reported on a few unique situations involving the term
making “The Blind Side” appear more fiction than fact. These stories have made Americans wonder what conservatorship is and how it differs from guardianship. In most cases, a conservatorship gets established after a court determines an individual is unable to manage their own financial matters. The court will appoint a conservator to make those decisions on their behalf. Their responsibilities can include paying bills, making investments, engaging in estate planning, and performing other vital financial services. Most conservatorships start after an individual begins struggling with dementia, other mental health issues, or a serious injury. Guardianship is much more focused on an individual’s well-being than on finances. Although it’s still court-appointed, guardians are responsible for things like medical care, housing, and more. Guardianship is often seen in reference to minors, specifically in adoption, but it can also apply to
adults. The big difference between guardians and conservators is that conservators are primarily responsible for financial and property management, whereas guardians focus on the individual’s personal care and health. Conservatorships have some advantages and disadvantages. First, they require court supervision, which helps protect the individual’s property. The conservator will have to file an inventory of the individual’s property and provide reports to the court. However, conservatorships can be a time-consuming process between managing the individual’s financial affairs and dealing with the court system. Conservatorships aren’t talked about as often, but they can be a helpful tool for those who need it. If you have any questions about conservatorships and how they work, please give us a call. - Andrea Johnson
“conservatorship.” Britney Spears was famously and involuntarily placed under a conservatorship, and football star Michael Oher was actually put in a conservatorship instead of being adopted,
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