In a time of endless screen time, social media pressure, and packed children's schedules, parents unknowingly raise stressed-out children who yearn for one thing: parents who are truly present, joyful, and full of life. Psychologist Milan Studnička reveals how shifting from material excess and constant commands to joyful connection can transform family dynamics – and why children don't need more gifts to thrive.
Milan Studnička, on the YouTube channel Praha TV, vividly describes the pitfalls of modern parenting: "I see so many mothers who are watching social media while pushing a stroller... It's hard for children – they don't have parents who have inner peace, joy, and perspective, who dedicate themselves to them, play with them, and truly enjoy the time spent with their children."
The problem is exacerbated by an endless stream of daily commands. "When you give 50 commands a day... that's tens of thousands, and in adolescence, a child has received 200,000 to 300,000 commands – and then parents wonder why their child doesn't communicate, cooperate, or function."
Instead of chasing perfection or excessive indulgence, Studnička advocates for natural boundaries set with warmth. He tells a memorable story about a mother who lay down on the floor next to her child during a tantrum – not out of weakness, but to connect – and also warns against extremes: "If a child gets the impression that they are in charge of everything... and then their mother doesn't listen to them, they will naturally make it very clear."
Gifts, he argues, completely miss the point. His family gave up gifts for Christmas in favor of games and stories. "They open it, put it aside, open another one – and yet they only play with one toy out of twenty. It's absolutely unnecessary." The result? Stronger bonds and a smaller sense of entitlement.
The basic thesis is simple but powerful: children absorb the inner state of their parents. "Parents who laugh... have that kind of outlook on life. Then the children are great, and they simply radiate joy in life." Parents who rush through life often take out their frustrations on their children instead of enjoying playing with Legos together or going for walks. Studnička and his wife, Olga, demonstrate this through joint lectures, proving that calm and connected parenting creates adults who maintain close relationships with their parents.
The message is urgent and full of hope: slow down, laugh more, set kind boundaries, and ditch the gifts. Your children will thank you with genuine joy.
gnews.cz – GH
You can watch the entire video (in Czech) here: