Many parents have busy schedules, and so it’s easy to build a routine, make decisions and then impose those decisions on the kids, without so much as asking for their thoughts or views. Yes, parents want the best for their children and, oftentimes, they believe their choices are what’s best. “In many families, children barely get to take part in the decision-making, the choices are made for them without getting them involved,” says Mediatrice Uwababyeyi, a mother of five. “Family engagement and participation in decision-making is vital when it comes to early childhood progress and achieving better family outcomes,” says Jeaninne Kampire. Experts say that giving children a voice in family decisions can foster a closer connection as a family, and community, as it gives them the opportunity to open up and talk about their issues and decisions that may affect them. Neurological research shows that giving children a voice in family decisions promotes self-esteem and self-worth. It also shows that when parents allow children to speak out through their emotions, feelings, choices, and their opinions, children learn that they are important and valued. Giving a child a voice in family decisions is beneficial as it helps them grow into confident adults who are able to share ideas and concerns. According to Pascal Nshimiyimukiza, a Rulindo District resident and father of six, giving children a voice in family decisions creates a sense of value, and this boosts the way they learn. “In my family, we always make decisions in the presence of our children, from the one who is four to the teens. It helps them to learn easily and be confident in themselves. It is important to create a safe environment for children to share their ideas in a way that will be noted by all family members, particularly parents,” he says. According to Uwababyeyi, giving children a voice in family decisions has many benefits, including strengthening the child-parent bond. “When children are given a voice, it supports the bond with their parents. It becomes easier for parents to talk to their children, even as adolescents. Children become more understanding, behave well, for example the way they to talk to adults and the words they use,” she says. According to the Healthline, children who have part in their family decisions grow up into confident adults who later become leaders and good managers. It is, hence, of the best use for every family to enhance the culture of involving their children in family decisions, even in single parent households. “Participation of children in family decisions ensures good mental health and safety of children. As a community, we need to embrace this,” Uwababyeyi adds.
