Having children is perhaps one of the greatest satisfactions that a married couple can have. Raising them together, however, poses a challenge that many find doable, while a lot of others are still confused about. Parenting is the procedure of lifting and enlightening a child from birth until maturity.

There is no definite and foolproof method of raising a child. Even medical experts and family therapists admit that although there are hundreds to thousands of great pieces of advice out there, only the parents know the best ways to deal with their own children.

Parenting is discussed as though it requires total sacrifice of the parents’ interests. While many parents may indeed strive for sainthood, parenting doesn't require such complete sacrifice in the name of the best interests of the child any more than it permits utterly self interested behavior. Too much self interest is detrimental to children. Moreover, parents must sometimes consider the needs of others. Parenting a child does not exist in isolation from the needs of other children, dependent persons, or even of spouses and friends.

A new child would mean that her or his existing child would not receive all of the attention it needed. The view expressed by that woman may be difficult for some to understand, but given certain circumstances, it makes a great deal of sense.

Ethical parenting is responsible care giving, requiring of parents enduring investment and commitment throughout their children’s long period of dependency. The effort people put forth to be responsible parents, as in other areas of their lives, is a function of their self attributions concerning the relation between their effort and outcome.
The ethics of parenting begins, therefore, with the assumption of responsibility for children. Parenting is concerned with unfolding the nature of that responsibility in the context of the reciprocal obligations of parents and offspring, and the responsibility of the state to the family, have been long standing concerns of philosophy, the law, and psychology dating back to ancient times.

Parental Duties

Parental duties normally are assumed by individual, deliberate action. This volunteering for parenthood is an important basis for the statutorily and judicially imposed contingent duties which follow the birth of a child. These imposed duties reflect the special nature of childhood. In effect, the assumption of the special powers reserved to parents when they care for children brings with it the assumption of concomitant duties which society considers part of the package.

During the stages of pregnancy, both the man and woman already are considered parents, and the roles they play are very important determinants in the development of the unborn child. The husband should be there to provide support for the pregnant mother, being aware of her moods and needs. The woman as the vital source of the child’s nourishment, should watch her diet carefully, and avoid unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking. Parents are advised to go to regular prenatal check-ups together, so they are able to monitor the progress of their child’s development.

Upon birth, a woman is strongly advised by her medical practitioners to being breastfeeding her baby. Breast milk is more beneficial to the child, as he or she receives antibodies from the mother as well. Breast fed babies are able to gain weight faster, have more regular bowel movements, and are less colicky. Though breastfeeding is done by the woman, the responsibility is not restricted to her alone.

Because a newborn baby can be demanding when it comes to milk, a mother may end up being tied to the child, unable to do other things. The father can help in this regard by feeding the baby with pre-pumped breast milk from the mother. Some parents alternately use formula so the mother has time to rest and replenish her milk supply. Fathers can lessen the load on the mothers by doing household chores, changing diapers, and bathing the baby.

Many family therapists explain that when a child sees his parents working together to care for him, he feels more secured and is able to reciprocate feelings of appreciation towards the parents. It is ideal for parents to be affectionate towards each other in front of the child. Even if the tasks of child care and parenting are tough, they can still be romantic with each other. In turn, the child is also affectionate, and has a happier disposition.

Parents should always work as a team in the growth and development of their children. Values and important attitudes are taught more effectively this way. Although parents have different styles of parenting and child discipline, all plans are successful when the mom and dad work hand in hand.

Afford physical safety to the children and their life by providing house, clothes, and food. Safeguard from threat, body care, and taking care of child’s physical condition.

Parental Obligations to Children

Parental obligations to children can be justified in a number of ways. For example, because of their helplessness and vulnerability, children need someone to provide for their needs. Although any number of adults could care for a child, the parents brought the child into existence. The common bond between parent and child suggests a different basis for parental duties. Because of the strong affection and special concern that parents have for their children, they are especially likely to be good nurtures.