Let's talk about RIE? Do you practice it? Has it worked for your family? Or is the philosophy full of nonsense?

I think RIE is an interesting parenting philosophy. However, perhaps it was because I was brought up in a rather traditional Chinese family, RIE appeared to be giving quite a bit of autonomy to the child. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not suggesting that a child should not be given any autonomy, just that I still appreciate appropriate amount of parental guidance. I am fully for observing a child’s display of his/her inclinations and interests, and engaging in free play etc as this could help enhance and develop a child’s interest/potential. As I’ve mentioned, I do think that it is a great concept and I could see the potential benefits. Guess the way I was brought up was too ingrained in me and I doubt I could fully adhere to the RIE principles. For some interesting reads on this topic, here are some articles which I’ve found: (a quick summary of the basic principles) http://www.magdagerber.org/blog/magda-gerbers-rie-philosophy-basic-principles http://www.janetlansbury.com/2013/12/rie-parenting-basics-9-ways-to-put-respect-into-action/ http://www.vanityfair.com/style/2014/02/rie-parenting-trend-hollywood

RIE stands for Resources for Infant Educarers, and basically it's a parenting style that stresses on dignity for babies. Parents treat babies with the respect adults would get and one of their main tenets is not giving babies praise for every little thing and no baby talk. It supposedly helps with their development. I don't know anyone personally who practises this -- not from infancy atleast. It's pretty popular in Hollywood these days apparently. In my opinion, it's something you can apply gradually when your baby is older - toddler age but not as an infant. There's absolutely nothing wrong with encouraging your child and praising their milestones.

I love RIE philosophy. I have been trying to use RIE on my children, 6yo and 3yo. However, I find the philosophy more suitable for younger kids. It works very well for my 3yo but not 6yo. I think it could be due to my 6yo is a strong-willed child and I always lost patience on her and failed to apply what I have learned. For my younger child, when he throws tantrum, I always acknowledge his feelings and whenever it is possible, I give choices to him so to reduce power struggles. I like the philosopy as I believe tiny children should receive the same respects as an adult.