Is my parenting style really as off-kilter as people make it out to be?

Wow I loved reading this! I have an 8 month old and so many people try to come up and tell me what i'm doing wrong, just walking on the street! It's absurd! I commend you for making your parenting a worthwhile experience for not only you but your daughter too! It sounds like she is a very outgoing girl and that she doesn't need anyone to show her her path but herself :) I am so happy to hear it is working for you. I love the praise idea and also the punishment! I love it all :) it sounds very mature and responsible of you to have laid down the ground rules so that you both can be extremely happy and live life to the fullest and most stressfree as possible. :) I would say, tell your friends what you think they're doing wrong then tell them do they want you to continue or leave their parenting to themselves? No one likes to be told they're being a bad parent, btu especially when they are doing such a good and inspiring job. There are alot of spoiled simple minded kids. You seem to have a kid with a good head on her shoulders and at age 3! :D I think you've accomplished something grand! :D Congratulations and good luck :)