I don't follow a "type" of parenting. I just do what feels right and works for my girls. People get so wrapped up in "following" the newest/ latest/ trendiest advice that they are more worried about keeping up with the new mother down the street than what works best for their baby! Healthwise, I've done what is healthiest for my daughters. They were/ are breastfed, they have their immunizations, and regular doctor's appointments. The way you care for your children is a very personal affair. No book, no doctor is going to be able to tell you exactly what is best for your individual child. And it should not be a competion of which style is better than the other. Each child, each family, each parenting style is different from the rest. As long as a child is loved, supported, and kept safe from harm....then your parenting style works.
This is a great post.
I think my number one goal (besides always keeping them safe) as a mother is to raise my girls to be independent do-ers and thinkers. My parenting style is an extension of my personality and personal experiences in life. Fortunately my DH and I see pretty much eye-to-eye on kid things.
I also agree w/ the PP that children do not always need to be the center of attention, their every whim be satisfied. I would love more than anything to be able to crawl around all day on the floor w/ my kids and play dress up and build castles. I definitely make time every day where I do nothing else but spend time w/ the kids to read, play, go walking, etc... But there are also times when the oldest is in her room playing or reading and the baby is in her playpen playing on her own. Letting children play on their own builds self esteem and confidence.