Recent discussions on parenting have reignited interest in the methods used by earlier generations, sparking a debate about the timeless wisdom embedded in so-called “old-school” parenting approaches. While contemporary “gentle parenting” strategies have gained significant popularity, recent media coverage, including a widely shared article from YourTango, highlights how many traditional parenting methods still offer valuable insights for today’s families (YourTango). This renewed conversation is especially relevant as Thai parents examine the shifting landscape of family life and child development in the digital age.
The resurgence of interest in older parenting methods stems from concerns that modern strategies—though well-intentioned—sometimes sacrifice clear boundaries, resilience-building, and personal responsibility in favor of constant validation and accommodation. The YourTango feature points out eight key ways in which older generations “got it right,” providing a counterpoint to current trends in gentle parenting. These methods include fostering independence by assigning age-appropriate chores, setting firm expectations for respect and manners, and encouraging unstructured outdoor play. For many Thai readers, these principles echo familiar values rooted in local traditions, emphasizing respect for elders, the importance of family contribution, and learning through practical experience.
Expert opinions support the value of blending old and new approaches. According to a professor of child development at a leading Thai university, “Research shows that clear boundaries and consistent routines help children develop self-discipline and emotional security. While it’s important to treat children with empathy and respect, structure remains a crucial foundation.” This perspective is reflected in recent studies published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies, which report that children benefit from both warmth and appropriate limit-setting (Springer Link).
In Thailand, many families continue to honor traditional values while gradually incorporating elements of gentle parenting. School teachers and child psychologists in Bangkok observe that grandparents, who often help care for grandchildren, pass on practical skills and cultural practices that foster resilience, polite behavior, and cooperation. “Old-school methods such as assigning chores, expecting punctuality, and promoting respect for elders help ground children amidst the rapid social changes brought by globalization and technology,” remarked a senior educator from the Ministry of Education.
The return to these principles does not imply a rejection of the gentle parenting movement, which champions empathy, positive discipline, and open communication. Rather, the most effective strategies may involve an integration of both philosophies. For example, parents can set firm limits on screen time while encouraging children to express their emotions constructively. Research from the American Psychological Association suggests that authoritative parenting—a balance of structure and nurturance—produces the best outcomes for children’s academic, social, and emotional development (APA).
Thailand’s rich family traditions offer a unique local context for this evolving conversation. Respecting elders, pitching in with household duties, and learning through intergenerational storytelling are deeply established in Thai culture. Many Thai adults fondly remember growing up under the watchful eye of grandparents and community elders, who may not have read the latest parenting books but embodied key life lessons through daily example. These customs, passed from generation to generation, help counter the pressures of modern life and maintain a sense of community.
Moving forward, as families in Thailand and elsewhere grapple with new parenting models, experts encourage a nuanced approach. “Parents don’t need to choose between gentle parenting and tradition,” advises a prominent Thai child psychologist affiliated with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Rajanagarindra Institute. “By drawing on the best of both worlds—firm boundaries, cultural values, and emotional support—families can cultivate well-rounded, resilient, and compassionate children.”
For Thai parents seeking practical applications, experts recommend establishing clear routines, involving children in age-appropriate family duties, encouraging respectful communication, and being present both emotionally and physically. As the parenting landscape evolves, blending time-honored strategies with modern empathy offers a path that honors Thailand’s heritage while meeting the needs of a new generation.
For further reading on this topic, readers may visit the original YourTango article (YourTango), the SpringerLink publication (Springer Link), and guidance from the American Psychological Association (APA).