They are beautiful stories that will become memories with your boy @ArraDreaming
I also did the Child Centred approach, which has a lot of benefits and positive aspects. Do not want to be too sentimental and Hearing you about an issue with balance. I also was so good at compliance that I complied with my little children, but when adult authority was necessary it was not possible to be heard.
My son is also struggling with it with my grandson. He (grandson) has been raised with too much control and while it is very cute for us all to submit to being told which way to go by a 3 year old when we meet in the park, it is not really the best for all parties in the long run.... which is why I really love the role of RESPECT and indigenous concept of ELDER.
Tbh I think society as a whole is a little out of whack as even though kids are wonderful and great and all that, but probably not best steering the ship ... and before someone jumps in with a cute photo of a kid steering a ship ... that only can happen if the child has been taught properly and listened. So parenting is more than play ... but all that play you have done with your boy should be good investment when you are trying to get a little legit authority in the relationship.
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