Thanks for this very good article. I like to be in the middle of the two styles because each one has their drawbacks IMO. I've heard of helicopter parents calling their kids professors/Deans and calling potential employers after job interviews. Kids raised under Helicopter parents end up being adults who have trouble making decisions independently and being too depended on their parents.

The free range parent is the opposite but I do support some of what they advocate, such a independent playing that's not so structured. Kids need time just to be kids and some parents have them involved in too many outside sports....where they don't have time to just play. I'm now starting to see the benefits in my own girls - both are well rounded and independently take responsibility for their grades. They also know they can depend on me, if they need help and guidance.

I'm sorry you had an over bearing father. My husband was starting to show signs of being too strict and tough. Over the years I have become the primary parent and he's mellowed somewhat. Funny thing is, I also trained my dog and she also turned out great lol. I feel all potential parents should take Positive Parenting classes.