Child rearing is a combination of love, patience and proper guidance. But often, even with good intentions, parents maintain certain habits that can hinder children’s mental development. In her Instagram post, child psychologist Shweta Gandhi shares five big mistakes that every parent should keep in mind.

If you are throwing away leftover rice, stop! Instantly make soft mesh uttappa for breakfast, perfect for small hunger pangs

Over controlling children

Some parents interfere in every activity of children. They decide what to wear, what to say, who to play with… In such an environment, children’s self-confidence decreases and their decision-making ability becomes weak. They always wait for parental approval rather than voicing their own opinions. So give children the space they need to learn, fall and get back up on their own.

Appreciate only when you win

In some homes, children are praised only if they come first, win or do well. But doing so makes children afraid of making mistakes. Instead of trying, they just run after ‘success’. It is important to tell children that hard work, consistency and honest efforts are equally valuable.

Not letting children get ‘bored’

Today’s children’s schedule is fixed to the minute. School, classes, screen time, activities… but emptiness is the first stage of creativity. Psychologists say that when children sit quietly, they learn to think, discover new games and develop imagination. Let them explore naturally rather than providing constant entertainment.

Answering every question of children immediately

When children ask something, parents decide to answer immediately. But it reduces the habit of ‘self-discovery’ in the child. Give the child time to think sometimes. He will second guess himself, make mistakes and learn from the process. This habit further enhances their critical thinking skills.

Christmas 2025 : Christmas will be double the fun, this year make everyone’s favorite ‘plum cake’ at home; Note the recipe

Comparing children to others

Comparison is the biggest attack on children’s confidence. Every child has a different learning pace, different interests and different abilities. Compared to others, children begin to feel inferior and psychological pressure increases. So measure their progress only on their parameters without comparison.

These small mistakes made by parents have a long lasting effect on the personality of children. Children become emotionally strong and self-confident if they are given the right treatment, understanding and freedom.