Here are three important principles that have helped in parenting my own kids and teaching yours.
1. Rules Without Relationships Lead to Rebellion
Kids don't respond to rules, they respond to rules in the context of a loving, intimate relationship. It is much easier to establish rules, to pass on your values and beliefs, and to discipline, if you have developed a relational foundation with your child.
2. Kids Spell Love T-I-M-E
One of the most important ways to communicate a child's personal worth is to spend time with them. When you are available to your children, it says, "You are important.” When we're not available, we are saying in essence, "I love you, but other things still come ahead of you." Years ago, a friend gave me a great piece of advice: "If you spend time with your children now, they will spend time with you later.”
3. Catch Your Kids Doing Something Right and Praise Them for It
Instead of catching your kids doing something wrong and disciplining them for it, try focusing on catching them doing something right and appreciate them for it. So often kids tell me, "The fastest way to get my parents/teacher's attention is to do something wrong.” Expressing appreciation gives children a sense of significance. Our appreciation tells them they are valued, and their accomplishments make a difference to someone.
DIGITAL INFORMATION:
Videos, activities, games and lessons for all ages on proper "netiquette"
http://www.netsmartz.org/Parents
What is happening currently in the news:
http://www.cyberbullying.us/
1. Rules Without Relationships Lead to Rebellion
Kids don't respond to rules, they respond to rules in the context of a loving, intimate relationship. It is much easier to establish rules, to pass on your values and beliefs, and to discipline, if you have developed a relational foundation with your child.
2. Kids Spell Love T-I-M-E
One of the most important ways to communicate a child's personal worth is to spend time with them. When you are available to your children, it says, "You are important.” When we're not available, we are saying in essence, "I love you, but other things still come ahead of you." Years ago, a friend gave me a great piece of advice: "If you spend time with your children now, they will spend time with you later.”
3. Catch Your Kids Doing Something Right and Praise Them for It
Instead of catching your kids doing something wrong and disciplining them for it, try focusing on catching them doing something right and appreciate them for it. So often kids tell me, "The fastest way to get my parents/teacher's attention is to do something wrong.” Expressing appreciation gives children a sense of significance. Our appreciation tells them they are valued, and their accomplishments make a difference to someone.
DIGITAL INFORMATION:
Videos, activities, games and lessons for all ages on proper "netiquette"
http://www.netsmartz.org/Parents
What is happening currently in the news:
http://www.cyberbullying.us/