BACK TO SCHOOL

 

     It is hard to believe that our children and grand children are back at school. This is both an

adventure and a bit of a scary situation. You are allowing strangers to have your children for

several hours a day for some 190 days a year. You are trusting that they will compliment

what you believe and teach at home so I am going to give you ten things to help

     First, do what I call show and tell. Teach you children right from wrong in calm words and

action. This of course is better taught by your example. Show them right from wrong by how to

live. Action always speak louder than words. This helps them to navigate falsehoods and lies

presented to them. Secondly, set limits. This means you set boundaries they need to know

how far they can go. Also remember there is a difference between childish irresponsibility and

willful defiance. For example, a child may accidently spill milk or some other childish thing.

Willful defiance is when a child puts their hands on their hips and says no. You need to know

the difference and act accordingly.

     Thirdly, give consequences and follow through. Don’t bargain, nag, scream, or bluff. Say

what you mean and mean what you say. This prepares them to listen to other trusted authority

figures in their lives. Fourthly, hear them out. Communication is essential. Talk things through.

Make them feel valued by listening to them. You may not agree but at least you talked about

things. Fifthly, give them your attention. Children don’t want the stuff you give them they want

you. Remember if you don’t give them attention someone else will and it will probably not be

someone you agree on.

     Sixthly, catch them doing good. Look for good behavior and praise it. Give them tasks

where they can succeed and be proud when they do something right, noble and good. This will

help with self esteem and a feeling of well being. Seven is know when not to respond. This

takes discernment, wisdom and patience. Evaluate, take time to think things through. Often it

only takes a moment. Children push buttons so knowing when to react and not to react. This

can save hurt, pain and guilt on both parties.

     Eighthly, be prepared for trouble. Having children this goes with the territory. Never be

surprised when a note comes home from the teacher. Don’t look for trouble but remember

children act often on impulse not thinking through the consequences so you must.

Number nine is re-direct behavior. As a parent you can help mold your children. Show them another way. Help them get going the right direction. Get them focused

on the right things. You are the most powerful influence in their lives so use that wisely and

prayerfully. Lastly, be wise in how you discipline. Know when to discipline in love and when to

have a time out. Both are useful. Also use age-appropriate discipline. Children at different

ages respond differently to different forms of discipline. Remember the word discipline comes

from the word disciple or follower. Your example is key to this. Never discipline in anger or

frustration.

     One last piece of advice or bonus. Have a time of prayer and bible reading with your

children. Faith is not only taught but caught. Be an example of consistent love and behavior. Never leave it to chance, environment, society or educators.  Do the job yourself and you will reap the benefits with children growing up well adjusted and healthy at least that is the aim and goal.