EVERY parent has their own set of rules their kids must follow, but one mum’s unique parenting style has left people divided.
Jeri-Leah revealed that her house rules are that there are NO rules, and her kids have access to unlimited snacks, screen time, and more.
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The mum took to TikTok to explain her controversial rules in a video which has amassed a whopping 10 million views in just a matter of days.
In the viral clip, Jeri-Leah revealed her kids never have to lift a finger when it comes to cleaning because she happily does it all for them.
She said: “You don’t have to tidy, I will do that. I don’t mind.
“I’ll put your clothes away, I’ll wash your clothes. That’s my job, I’m your mum, I’m gonna mother you, let me smother you.”
As for meal time, Jeri-Leah’s rules are every child’s dream because if they don’t like what’s on offer for breakfast, lunch or dinner she’ll cook them something else.
Even if everyone wants something different, the mum said she would cook four different meals if needs be.
Snacks are also completely unlimited in her home and her kids can help themselves to as many as they want, whenever they want.
“You don’t have any rules, you can go in the cupboards or in the fridge whenever you want,” she said.
And although parenting experts have issued warnings in the past about unlimited screentime for kids, Jeri-Leah has taken a different approach.
Her kids can spend as much time as they like on their devices or watching TV – it’s totally up to them.
Bedtimes are non-existent as well, as the mum confessed her kids simply don’t have them
In fact, Jeri-Leah said half the kids pile in with her and sleep in her bed and she doesn’t mind that they do.
And although some parents might be keen for their kids to fly the nest when they get older, the mum’s little ones are free to stay at long as they like.
Swearing is allowed, at least in the privacy of their own home.
“I say sh*t, you can say sh*t. But when we’re out in the general public, please don’t do that, they wouldn’t swear in front of nanny, that’s not ok,” the mum said.
After sharing her rules, or lack thereof, other parents had mixed feelings about it all.
One said: “No food rules = healthy relationship with food. Good on you!”
But a second chimed in with a different take, saying: “I grew up with this kind of rule, and I’m currently overweight, struggle to keep my house clean, am lazy, and sometimes, without realising it, expect things to be done for me.”
“It’s good that they’re not forced to do things but I do think it’s a good habit to teach them cleaning up after themselves,” a third wrote.
Meanwhile, someone else commented: “My mum raised me like this and our relationship is so open and honest.
“Strict parents raise sneaky kids, my mum knows everything I do.”
Another agreed: “I genuinely think being brought up like this is the best way.”
But someone else wrote: “As much as I love how lenient you are I’d love some rules, discipline is sometimes a blessing is disguise.”
Different parenting techniques
Here are some widely recognised methods:
Authoritative Parenting
This technique will often foster independence, self-discipline, and high self-esteem in children.
It is often considered the most effective, this technique is where parents set clear expectations – enforcing rules – whilst also showing warmth and support.
Authoritarian Parenting
This is opposite to authoritative parenting, as it is where the parent sets high demands but is low on responsiveness.
It involves ensuring the child is obedient and often employ punitive measures. While this can lead to disciplined behaviour, it may also result in lower self-esteem and social skills in children.
Permissive Parenting
Permissive parents tend to be indulgent and lenient, often taking on a role more akin to a friend than an authority figure. They are highly responsive but lack demandingness, granting children a lot of freedom. This method can nurture creativity and a free-spirited nature but may also result in poor self-regulation and difficulties with authority.
Uninvolved Parenting
Uninvolved or neglectful parenting is marked by low responsiveness and low demands. Parents in this category offer minimal guidance, nurturing, or attention. This often leaves children feeling neglected, which can have significant negative effects on their emotional and social development.
Helicopter Parenting
Helicopter parents are extremely involved and overprotective, frequently micromanaging their children’s lives. Although their goal is to protect and support, this approach can hinder a child’s ability to develop independence and problem-solving skills.
Free-Range Parenting
Free-range parenting encourages children to explore and learn from their surroundings with minimal parental interference. This method promotes independence and resilience but requires a safe and supportive environment to be successful.
Attachment Parenting
According to Marriage.com, Attachment parenting focuses on physical closeness and emotional bonding, often through practices such as co-sleeping and baby-wearing. This approach aims to create secure attachments and emotional well-being, but demands significant time and emotional commitment from parents.
Each of these parenting techniques has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The key is to find a balanced approach that aligns with the family’s values and meets the child’s needs for a healthy, happy upbringing.
