Privacy isn't about locking doors, it's about unlocking trust.
By justola1
Happy New Month, Hiveans!
This topic is a bit subjective. We all know that there is no rule book to parenting. The strategy that worked for a particular child in the right manner would be quite different for another child.
I'm not a parent yet, but I've been a child, and I can share insights that current and future parents might find useful.
Do kids need Privacy?
The word kids can mean many things, but to make sense of this, let's look at it by age groups.
For the age group 1-10 years old
At this stage, kids are quite naïve and ignorant and would make a lot of mistakes that he/she might regret when older. It's the job of the parent to closely monitor his ward during that period. So doors have to kept open always.
For the age group 10-13 years old
It's a common age, especially for females, to start puberty. In this age, children even develop faster before 18 years, and also we're in a digital age. We're all human, and we have wants and lusts.
A 10-13-year-old would be tempted to explore and try out porn and even sex. There could be cases of molestation, so I feel it's right for the parent to still implement the no-closing-door policy, but in this phase too, trust should be built between parent and child.
For the age group 14-18 years old
This age group are still kids, but let's be honest, this is the age when they start being rebellious, and you have to handle them meticulously so you don't lose them.
Even before they demand it, you should learn to respect their privacy. Starting from knocking before entering their rooms, not checking their phones, not eavesdropping on their conversations, and respecting their opinions.
Legally, as a parent, you have a right to still enforce some rules and restrictions, but I believe it's better to introduce your children to a bit of the adult life a bit early. Teach them responsibility and sexual discipline at the early stage of their life. They should know that every action has consequences.
How I Grew Up
My dad literally gave everything he could, including freedom. But there was something he always did. He made me understand that all actions had consequences, and when I abused my privileges, they got taken away from me.
I didn't want to lose the respect, freedom, and even amenities like my phone, so I learned responsibility early enough in my life and tried as much as possible not to overstep.
Slowly, I began to overtake my private life. Even before I turned 18 years old, I was allowed to make decisions myself and bear the consequences of wrong ones, and I was guided along the journey.
It got to a point where my father trusted me fully. I was trusted to start handling his finances, and I was given authority over my siblings.
Conclusion
There's a phase for everything. I believe in giving people choices, even children, and trusting them to make good ones.
Every child has their own unique peak. As I mentioned earlier in this post, there is no single rule for parenting. You have to watch your kids closely and make decisions based on their level of understanding. Some kids cannot be trusted early enough to be on their own, and you have to keep their doors open and hence their privacy a bit invaded. But it has to be done moderately so you don't lose them. Start small, assign little responsibilities, build trust, and give them a taste of the adult life. I don't totally believe in the 18-year-old set. It worked for me.
Thank You for Reading
Images was generated using Googles Nanobanana:
https://aistudio.google.com/prompts/1sEamYxvHzb902ir0ma7lAx17zwvlGJ7t
