La parentalidad positiva en la crianza de los niños de 3 a 5 años en los centros de educación inicial del Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: The present study, titled "Positive Parenting in the Upbringing of Children Aged 3 to 5 in Early Childhood Education Centers in Ecuador," aims to determine the positive parenting competencies developed by mothers and/or fathers in the upbringing of children aged 3 to 5. The research followed a quantitative approach, utilizing exploratory and descriptive methods. A sample of 20 parents from the initial and first grade levels of Basic General Education (BGE) was selected. The primary instrument used was the Positive Parenting Scale (E2Pv2). Findings indicate that limited communication, low levels of empathy, and insufficient emotional support place many families within the risk zone. The data also reveal that older parents tend to exhibit stronger parenting competencies, and that mothers are predominantly responsible for the caregiving role. These patterns suggest an uneven distribution of parenting practices and highlight the need for more comprehensive support systems. The study concludes that the effective exercise of parenting competencies in daily caregiving practices contributes significantly to the integral development of young children. It is therefore recommended that both mothers and fathers seek external support or guidance to strengthen their parenting skills, with the goal of promoting a healthy socio-emotional development in their children.