A Parenting Journey Beyond Medicine
On the Kabir Vani Podcast, host Kabir “Vani” Zariwala speaks with Dr. Priyanka Tibrewala, a doctor-turned-life coach and parenting expert. From her personal journey of raising two kids to coaching hundreds of families, Dr. Priyanka brings a wealth of insight into modern parenting challenges.
Parenting is Not Just About Being a Friend
Dr. Priyanka emphasizes that while open communication is key, parents should not aim to become 100% friends with their children. “A child has many friends, but only one parent. Boundaries give them security.” The role of a parent shifts fluidly—sometimes strict, sometimes supportive, and sometimes purely a mentor.
Screen Time and Digital Wellness
One of the most pressing issues today is screen exposure. Dr. Priyanka cites that children under 2 should have zero screen time, and even older children should follow strict limits. She equates screen addiction to a form of drug dependency, highlighting how it impacts brain development and emotional regulation.
Her advice: use screens only if they serve one of the 3 Es—Education, Enrichment, or Entertainment. Even then, timing and quality must be monitored closely.
The Role of Garbh Sanskar and Manifestation
Dr. Priyanka draws from ancient wisdom and modern science when she speaks about garbh sanskar. During pregnancy, everything a mother consumes—thoughts, books, music—directly influences the child. She encourages parents to visualize the qualities they want in their children, combining manifestation with conscious practices.
Emotional Intelligence: The Missing Skill
Depression and anxiety among teenagers are rising in India. According to Dr. Priyanka, this stems largely from a lack of emotional intelligence. Schools often neglect this dimension, leaving children unable to identify or express emotions.
Simple tools like mood-tracking apps or even emoji charts can help kids recognize feelings. Parents must create a safe space where children can express themselves without fear of judgment.
Parenting as an Energetic Connection
She explains that children absorb their parents’ energy, whether positive or negative. A parent who is emotionally balanced naturally passes that stability to their child. Meditation, affirmations, and mindful routines are not just personal practices—they shape the child’s environment.
Boundaries, Freedom, and Consequences
Dr. Priyanka advises adopting an authoritative parenting style—clear rules combined with freedom within those boundaries. Consequences must also be set in advance. For example, missing curfew should come with a natural repercussion, teaching responsibility rather than creating rebellion.
Spirituality and Family Traditions
While modern life demands flexibility, Dr. Priyanka highlights the importance of cultural and spiritual traditions. They provide children with a sense of identity, stability, and belonging. Whether through rituals, meditation, or storytelling, spiritual grounding becomes an anchor during life’s challenges.
FAQ
Q1. What is conscious parenting according to Dr. Priyanka Tibrewala?
It means being mindful, setting boundaries, and creating an environment that balances discipline with freedom.
Q2. How much screen time is healthy for kids?
Zero for ages 0–2, limited to 30 minutes for ages 2–5, and up to 1–2 hours for older children, with strict monitoring.
Q3. What is garbh sanskar?
It’s an ancient practice of influencing the unborn child through conscious thoughts, music, books, and positive visualization.
Q4. How can parents help children avoid depression?
By building emotional intelligence, maintaining open communication, and offering unconditional love and support.
Q5. Why are traditions and spirituality important in parenting?
They provide children with faith, stability, and a sense of belonging that strengthens resilience.
Closing Thoughts
Dr. Priyanka Tibrewala’s insights remind us that parenting is less about controlling children and more about evolving ourselves. By practicing emotional balance, mindful routines, and spiritual grounding, parents can raise confident and resilient kids in today’s complex world.
You can listen to the full conversation with Dr. Priyanka Tibrewala on the Kabir Vani Podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Prime Music.
Contact Dr. Priyanka Tibrewala
- Name: Dr. Priyanka Tibrewala
- Instagram: @priyankatibrewala
- Website: https://www.coachpriyanka.in/
