Parenting today has taken a turn where children are provided with everything they desire—be it toys, gadgets, or even freedom to do as they please. While fulfilling a child’s needs is essential, constantly giving in to their wants without setting boundaries can lead to a sense of entitlement. Over time, this can develop into adamant behavior, where children struggle to understand the feelings of others.

But is this the right way to raise a child? If children are to thrive in a diverse society, they must develop emotional intelligence, which begins with empathy. And fostering empathy is a parent's sole responsibility in upbringing.

The Problem: Overindulgence vs. Emotional Awareness

Many parents today believe that providing everything their child asks for is an expression of love. They want to shield them from discomfort, disappointment, or struggles. But in doing so, they unknowingly deprive them of an important life skill—understanding how their actions and words affect others.

• A child who always gets what they want might struggle to accept "no" in the real world.
• Without experiencing disappointment or boundaries, they may lack the ability to empathize with others who have fewer privileges.
• They might fail to recognize when their actions hurt others, making it difficult for them to form meaningful relationships.

Why Empathy Matters in Society

We live in a world with people from different socio-economic backgrounds. Children who grow up without emotional intelligence may struggle to understand why some kids can’t afford what they have or why they should respect others regardless of their status.

Empathy is not just about feeling for someone; it is about:

• Recognizing that everyone has different struggles.
• Understanding how one’s words and actions impact others.
• Respecting people regardless of their background.

This starts within the family. When parents communicate emotionally and set the right examples, children learn to treat everyone with respect, kindness, and fairness.

Parenting for Emotional Intelligence

Fostering empathy doesn't mean making children emotionally weak. On the contrary, it builds strong, responsible, and confident individuals with leadership qualities. Here’s how parents can help:

Teach Them to Consider Others’ Feelings: Ask questions like, “How would you feel if someone said that to you?”

Set Healthy Boundaries: Saying “no” at times helps children understand that not everything in life comes easily.

Encourage Gratitude: Help them appreciate what they have and recognize that not everyone has the same privileges.

Model Emotional Intelligence: Children learn by watching. Treat people with respect, and they will follow.

Guide, Don’t Dictate: Instead of imposing rules, explain why certain behaviors matter.

Raising emotionally intelligent children is not about making them submissive—it’s about making them aware, responsible, and kind. A child who understands emotions and respects people will grow up to be a strong leader who knows the difference between right and wrong. And this begins with parents who lead by example.

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