5 signs that you are an elephant parent

Parenting styles can be categorized by animal types: tiger, helicopter, and dolphin parents, to name a few, with every one symbolizing a different type of parental upbringing. There is one type of parenting style, however, that has currently risen to popularity in modern times: elephant parents.

Elephant parents function around the principles of love, protection, and a strong emotional bond with their children. They want to connect with their kids and not necessarily control them. Here are five signs to check whether you're an elephant parent:

1. You prioritize emotional safety over achievement

"Elephant" parents think that happiness and emotional fulfillment are more important than grades, medals, and prestige. "Of course, you should try your best," but it's not a question that’s measured by any specific performance. "How are you?" becomes more important than "Why aren't you first?"

2. You are deeply involved - but not controlling

As an elephant parent, you are always there in your child’s life but are not hovering over it.

You are also aware of your child's friends, passions, fears, and dreams but give them the elbow room to make appropriate child-level decisions. Contrary to the hovering of the helicopter parent, the elephant parent does not hover but guides the child softly and enters the picture when needed.

3. You foster a strong family bond

One thing that elephants are renowned for is the fact that they live in very close-knit family groups, and the elephant parent values the same thing in family life.

Family time is very precious to you, mealtimes, chats, and traditions count. Your brothers and sisters and other relatives are urged to stay very connected, and you believe that having a support system helps instill confidence in your kids.

4. You respond with empathy

Instead of punishment when making a mistake, the initial reaction as parents is understanding. Elephant parents understand that mistakes are chances to learn. Rather than reacting negatively to mistakes through disappointment and anger, you listen to the mistake, empathize, and guide the child to reflect on the mistake.

5. You believe childhood should be protected

"Elephant parents" strongly feel that it is essential to give children the freedom to be children. You can resist the temptation to overschedule their lives, push them too hard, or ask them to take on too much too soon in terms of responsibilities.