No More Rules

As our kids get older and begin to express themselves and live out who they think they should be, parents get scared.
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We think boundaries are important so we create a rule. Then we enforce that rule. If that doesn’t fix them, we create another rule. Too many parents think one more rule will fix it.
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Here is a life giving formula: rules minus relationship equals rebellion... EVERY TIME!
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You have to build a relationship with your child. A friendship...yes an honest to God friendship. Stop telling yourself the mantra, “I’m not here to be their friend, I’m there parent!” As though we have to choose between one or the other.
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If the creator also says that He is our friend, then I think we can be both parent and friend. Build a relationship with your child where they are safe to be vulnerable and where you are as well!
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Where love and relationship is strong rules become less necessary. So instead of inventing one more rule to keep your kid controlled or safe, spend time inventing ways to build an honest to God friendship with them. When you do that you don’t have to demand respect, they freely give it to you!