Many parents are unable to balance being a parent as well as a friend. Parents fluctuate between extreme friendliness and sternness. Being a parent and a friend means sharing, paying attention, talking, trusting and encouraging, and also being commanding when needed and inculcating good values to children.

We are in charge of the kid’s emotional and physical wants. Things change as they grow up, as it becomes a relation among equals. So effort is required to maintain a healthy relation.

There should be a right balance between the fixed rules and flexibility. Children should have a steady and routine daily life. This helps them to have better control and feel safe. It is the duty of the parents to inculcate such discipline.

Rules should be imposed softly but resolutely. As kids grow, parents should modify rules and be open to give and take. Parents should be unswerving; kids are intelligent, and they know how to take advantage when parents have a fight.

Communication must be open; kids should be able to talk about everything with their parents. It is a vital ingredient of friendly parenting. Children must be able to trust parents and share issues and should believe parents are always there for them.

Dividing work and working together is a good way to spend quality time and also helps bonding. Strong attachment helps to balance parent-friend approach. Societal exposure is necessary for the overall development of the child.