Sunday, March 04, 2007

Tips on How to Parent

Parenting Tips
Today I will be talking from experience and sharing some tips I have learned in my journey of raising children. And currently still raising two teenage boys! Yeah, I know when it comes to teenagers, one might say where did my sweet little child go, it's like aliens came down and snatched them right out of here! Well, don't feel bad I think most everyone out there with teenagers could agree at one point or another.
I think of my teenager as a flower, one who needs plenty of sunshine, water and TLC! Now, the problem with this is getting them to agree, the things I do are in their best interest, and mom and dad really do know what's best!
This is where it gets tricky, teenagers tend to believe they know everything, come on, we were once there ourselves. Now, with the advantage of hindsight we should be intuitively keen, assuming we are on top of things. So, with this in thought think before you speak, balance out the playing field. Let the ball be in their court, talk out the conflict instead of battling them. Arguing or being defensive never works, been down that road! And on occasions have traveled back. We all want to be the winner in an argument and face it, someone has to loose but, if careful both can be winners.
Today is even harder then ever to raise children, we battle an array of diversities! Due to an overindulged society and a lack of good parenting; too many are looking for a quick fix, and frankly don't want or have the time to deal with it. Thus leaving children to raise themselves, and lord knows I have issues with that. It makes me so mad, I could literally stay on this subject for ever! Well, back to a few good tips:

1.) Always think before you speak.........

2.) If handing out a punishment; make sure the punishment fits the crime!

3.) Try compromising as long as you are not lowering your standards & beliefs.

4.) Set boundaries and limits.

5.) Say what you mean and mean what you say.

6.) Encourage friends to hang out at your house; where you can keep an eye on your children.

Now, remember there are no assurances and quick fixes and sometimes we just mess up! But with common sense and wisdom and a little hard work your kids are most likely going to be just fine. Now, this is just my opinion and God knows I have had lots of experience on the subject of children and continue to learn everyday. Keep your faith and God Bless!