Soft parenting is having a moment—and not just because it looks good on TikTok. It’s grounded in developmental psychology and backed by research into attachment theory, brain development, and emotional regulation.

Here’s why more parents are making the switch:

1. Emotional literacy is finally a thing
Today’s parents grew up in a world where “stop crying” was a common phrase. Now we’re realising that naming and validating emotions builds resilience, not weakness.

2. Long-term benefits beat short-term compliance
Sure, you can stop a tantrum with a bribe or a threat. But soft parenting aims to teach skills that last—like problem-solving, empathy, and self-awareness.

3. It supports mental health for everyone
Children raised with emotional safety and consistent boundaries tend to have better self-esteem and emotional regulation. And parents? They report lower levels of burnout and guilt.

4. It works with, not against, brain development
Kids under seven are still developing the part of the brain responsible for logic, empathy, and impulse control. Expecting them to “behave” all the time is unrealistic. Soft parenting recognises that development is a process, not a performance.