Karma, Kids, and the Never-Ending Parenting Roller Coaster

The idiom

"What goes around comes around" conveys the idea that one's behaviour will ultimately return to them, often in a similar form. It's the universe’s way of reminding us that karma has an excellent memory. This phrase encourages us to be mindful of the energy we put into the world.

A journey of growth and giggles ...

Parenting is often viewed through the lens of responsibility, duty, and care, but there is a deeper dimension to this role. In navigating the challenges of parenting, parents encounter experiences that help shape their child’s path as well as reveals their personal values and beliefs. Parenting becomes an oddly empowering journey where both kids and adults grow, transform, and share plenty of giggles along the way.

The way we were raised shapes the way we raise

When we apply the concept of karma to parenting, we recognize that the actions and behaviours of parents resonate deeply with their children. The way a parent has been parented significantly influences their parenting style. Parents tend to relive all their childhood shenanigans, but from the receiving end. Parents’ actions create a ripple effect in the child’s development, their self-esteem and worldview. Karma in parenting is more of a conscious recognition that our actions ripple far beyond the immediate moment.

The ripple effect

Children are highly perceptive and often imitate the actions of their parents. For instance, if a parent embodies patience, kindness, and open communication, it is likely that the child will adopt these values in their interactions. Conversely, negative behaviours such as frustration, impatience, or lack of empathy can yield a similar reflection in a child's actions.

By consciously reflecting on their behaviour, parents can identify unhealthy patterns that need adjusting for their child’s sake. These intentional changes not only break negative habits but also deepen the parent–child bond.

Kids notice far more than we think, silently studying the adults in their lives. What parents do often speak louder than anything they could ever say. When parents try to model the kind of behaviour and traits (especially the ones which are out of their comfort zone) they want their kids to learn, not only does it set an example, it also showcases a growth-oriented mindset for the kid to emulate. Kids start to notice the shift, and they naturally begin to mirror the changes. Plus, as parents grow and adjust, kids learn that self-improvement is normal, mistakes are fixable, and growth is something everyone can choose—at any age.

Parenting isn’t just about guiding our children through their early years—it’s about shaping the future. Every day is an opportunity to leave behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and conscious care—a legacy that will echo far beyond our lifetime.