HELPING OR HURTING: Helicopter parenting

Presentation prepared by Family First Pediatrics

The term “helicopter parent” is defined as a parent who is overly involved in the life

of his or her child.

Helicopter parents are overprotective. While many believe that this type of parenting can be

harmful, others write it off as media hype created by those who endorse free-range parenting.

Unlike helicopter parenting, free-range parenting gives children the freedom to explore the world at their own pace. In this piece, we’ll examine the pros and cons of helicopter parenting.

How Helicopter Parenting May be Beneficial One positive attribute of helicopter parents is that they

are deeply involved in their children’s lives.

Parents who take a seemingly overactive role in their child’s life are known for

monitoring their child’s safety at all times. They’ll typically know all the pertinent details about their

child’s location and who they’re spending time with.

Problems with Helicopter Parenting

There are several areas where children of helicopter parents struggle:

Although playing an active role in your child’s life is important, participating too much can potentially hinder your child’s development.

Problem-solving – Inhibiting your child from

overcoming everyday obstacles on their own can hinder

the development of these valuable problem-solving skills.

Dependency – Children who have everything done for

them will have difficulty learning to do it

themselves. Many children of helicopter parents have a

hard time learning to cook, clean, or adhere to a work or

school schedule.

Coping skills –Studies have found that helicopter

parenting can make children feel less competent in

dealing with the stresses of life on their own.

Confidence –An overwhelming fear of failure can cause

low self-confidence and anxiety. As a result, your child

may lack the confidence necessary to do well in school,

pursue hobbies and interests, and develop friendships.

Parenting Style Matters

Diana Baumrind, a clinical and developmental

psychologist, concluded that the optima parent is one

who implements an authoritative parenting style.

Authoritative parents are involved, responsive, and

establish high expectations, while still respecting their

child’s autonomy.

If you have any questions about the development of your child, and how your parenting style can help, please feel free to discuss it with your Oviedo Pediatric expert at

Family First Pediatrics.

407.335.4760