Actor Kajol recently shared her insights on motherhood in an interview with Bollywood Bubble. She reflected on how her children unexpectedly taught her valuable lessons through everyday situations, especially during mealtime disagreements.
Often, arguments arise around food. Kajol recalled a moment with her daughter Nysa, who once told her, “Mom, just relax. I know what I’m doing, and I’ll eat when I’m hungry.” This statement made her realize that Nysa is capable and thrives on her own, with experiences from boarding school that shaped her independence.
Kajol acknowledged that parenting challenges her own opinions. “I’m quite opinionated, and to change my mind, one usually needs to present a strong argument. But sometimes, my kids can shift my views with just a look or a single sentence,” she said. She emphasized that her children have made her strive to be a better person.
Why Do Meal Disputes Happen?
Sonal Khangarot, a licensed psychotherapist, explains that family dinners are a time for connection, making the dining table a space filled with expectations. For parents, providing food is an act of love, while for kids, it can feel like pressure. Kids pushing back against mealtime can be more about asserting their independence than actual hunger.
Khangarot suggests focusing less on what or how much children eat and more on how mealtime feels. Creating rituals, like setting the table together or sharing highlights of the day, can ease tension. “When mealtime feels safe and flexible, power struggles melt away, allowing for connection,” she added.
Learning from Our Children
To genuinely learn from children, Khangarot notes that parents need humility, curiosity, and a willingness to rethink the idea that age equals authority. As kids mature, they develop their own values and opinions, which can challenge parents’ beliefs. However, this offers an exciting chance for growth together.
Active listening plays a crucial role. When parents engage fully, it fosters honesty and connection. Khangarot points out that true listening allows children to feel understood rather than corrected. “This shift—from instructing to relating—enriches the relationship and cultivates mutual respect,” she explains.
As families navigate these dynamics, it’s essential to recognize the evolving nature of relationships. Engaging openly with children not only strengthens bonds but also creates a space where everyone can learn from one another.
For further insights on the importance of communication in family dynamics, consider checking the Family Communication Project here.
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