Ask Kat: Parenting Styles

As the mum of three small boys, an expert in baby products and a no-nonsense parent, resident blogger Kat Armstrong always seems to be called upon by friends, family and strangers to answer tough parenting questions. We thought it was high time she shared this knowledge with you, and her series Ask Kat was born. If you have questions for Kat, you can email her at askkat@ohbabymagazine.com.

Dear Kat,

We are expecting our first baby very soon and I have been doing so much research! One thing I’m really stuck on is the idea of “Attachment Parenting” but some of the things that seem attached to this type of parenting style sound like too much work for me. My husband works long hours away and we don’t have any family or anyone else to help us. Is there any other parenting style like this one but without things like non-stop babywearing or exclusive breastfeeding?

Johanna, Vaughn

Johanna,

First, congratulations! Your first baby is always very exciting. Secondly – don’t worry too much about parenting styles right now. Attachment parenting (or AP as many call it) is definitely a style of parenting but isn’t the ONLY style of parenting nor do you need to follow it to the T. The nice thing about having your own family is that you can judge what works and what doesn’t work for you based on your lifestyle and wants, as well as your child’s temperament. For example, I like many of the parts of AP parenting, but I work what I want into our day to day and drop the rest. If you’re looking for reading material, I highly recommend reading the book Becoming the Parent You Want to Be by Laura Davis and Janis Keyser. This book will help you navigate parenthood at different ages and stages without giving you particulars on any one “style.” Relax and enjoy your new babe when they arrive!