Parenting Specialist Highlights Common Mistakes and the Difference Between Firmness and Punishment

Psychological and educational counselling specialist Heidi El-Masry has highlighted common parenting mistakes that mothers and fathers can make despite wanting the best for their children.

El-Masry said many misguided practices are adopted in good faith, with parents believing they will motivate their children to improve their behaviour.

Her remarks addressed errors in raising children, alongside the distinction between firmness and punishment—a central issue in how parents respond to behaviour they want to change.

The warning highlights a gap between parents’ intentions and the methods they choose: believing an approach will encourage better behaviour does not necessarily make it appropriate.