Bevendre

It often amazes me how often a parent fails to be a parent.  Providing for a child’s physical needs, shelter, food, etc. is the job of a caretaker, and sadly is what many seem to think encapsulates the role of ‘parent’.  A true parent does more than just provide for their children, they provide support and acceptance.  A true parent works to understand their child, who they are, what they go through, and what they need beyond the physical.

One can be a fantastic caretaker, and a piss poor parent without ever meaning to.  One can be a fantastic caretaker and a piss poor parent without ever being directly or overtly abusive.  Being just a caretaker and failing as a supportive, understanding parent can be very, very, VERY damaging and harmful for children, and can cause as much, if not more, harm as overt physical abuse in the long run.