I was amused when I heard the term "Type C parenting" for the first time on social media a few days back. Wondering, I asked my parents whether they knew anything about it, but they were equally as confused as I was. But they told me something that struck a chord in me. They said the key mantra of parenting is that you have to be friends with your child while bringing them up, that alone solves the majority of the problems.

We all know parenting is not a cakewalk rather one of the most difficult and crucial jobs in the world. My parents might not know the technical terms of parenting style but they always made sure to be my friends first and then my parents. And interestingly, that’s exactly what Type C parenting is all about.

To all the parents or parents-to-be on the block, let's break down what "Type C parenting" actually means!

Defining Type C Parenting

Coined by social media influencer Ashleigh Surratt, Type C parenting talks about balancing structure with spontaneity. In her now-viral Instagram video which has garnered over 4.5 million views, she humorously showcases the chaotic yet capable essence of this parenting style. The relatable content sparked a wave of responses with countless creators sharing their own Type C moments. At its core, Type C parenting values the consistent routines admired by Type A personalities, while also embracing the unpredictability and flexibility celebrated by Type B parents.

Characteristics of Type C parenting

This parenting style is characterized by:

1. Flexibility: While routines are valued, there's an understanding that sometimes deviations are part of life.
2. Emotional Validity: Type C parents prioritize emotional connection, ensuring their children feel seen and heard.
3. Realism: Perfection is not the goal instead, the focus is on creating an environment where mistakes are considered as learning opportunities.

Tara Clark, podcast host and creator of Modern Mom Probs on Instagram told "GMA" the Type C trend resonates deeply with her.

I can proudly say that I am a Type C because it's a more realistic approach and allows us to be human. No parent is perfect. No child is perfect. Being Type C allows for that flexibility. Of course, we have high standards but not at the cost of our child's mental health or our own.

Benefits of Type C Parenting

Kids who grow up with Type C parenting often enjoy a really balanced upbringing. Here’s how it helps them:

1. They become emotionally smart: Since this style focuses a lot on empathy and honest conversations, children learn to understand and express their feelings better.
2. They handle life’s curveballs better: A mix of routine and flexibility means they learn to adapt and deal with things when they don’t go as planned.
3. They grow up confident: When children feel supported and trusted, they start believing in themselves so they naturally become confident.

To all the Type C moms out there including my own, thank you for creating space where your child could thrive in chaos, explore their creativity, and learn through their mistakes. And if you ever feel guilty about not doing it all "by the book," just remember that you are already a good mom, you don’t have to overthink it and you don’t have to prove it. You just have to be you. And that is more than enough for us children.

So, tell us what genre you fit in as a mom? Type A, who is always on schedule, Type B, who embraces spontaneity or a proud Type C, walking the fine line between order and chaos?

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