By Gary Chapman
 
Every Society Has Rules.
 
In a healthy society, rules are designed for the benefit of the whole. Everyone reaps the benefits. However where despotic leaders impose rules that are detrimental to the well-being of the people, people will eventually rebel.
 
The same principles are true in family life. Mom and Dad have the responsibility to decide rules that are for the benefit of the children. When parents are self -centered and impose unfair and unrealistic rules upon children, eventually the children rebel.
 
Good rules which are lovingly enforced teach children obedience. Bad rules that are harshly enforced create angry children. 
 
Rules Must Be Clear and Consistent
 
Are you having trouble teaching your child obedience? Children are moral creatures. They have a strong sense of right and wrong. This is evident when you hear the phrase, "That's not fair Mommy." 

 

In light of this, when you state rules clearly to children, state why you have the rule, and state what the consequences will be if the child breaks the rule, then they will clearly understand their boundaries and that they will be disciplined if they step out of line.
 
Discipline is not a dirty word. It means "training". Every child needs it. It begins by helping a child understand that his/her behavior affects others. If I help mommy set the table, mommy is happy. If I throw the ball on the table, mommy is upset.
 
It continues throughout life, in reality life is filled with rules. Most rules are there for our good like traffic laws. If we follow rules, life is pleasant. If we break them life is unpleasant.
 
The only other ingredient necessary for parents is to be consistent in letting the child suffer the consequences.

 

If you remove the consequences because the child cries, then you teach the child to cry. If a temper tantrum will change the parents mind, then the child becomes a terror.

 

Do yourself a favor learn to discipline fairly and consistently.

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