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Discipline Is a Must!

By Joanne B. Parrotta 

It is crucial to teach your children right from wrong. Let’s face it: No parent wants to raise rude and disrespectful children. A spoiled child is neither well liked nor pleasant to have around. Instead, we want to raise children who will become kind, generous, responsible, and moral adults. Although genetics and life experiences contribute to how a child develops emotionally, in the first five years this very important job is mostly in the parents’ hands.

          Some parents are far too permissive with their children. A permissive parent usually provides few rules, with no consequences when the rules are broken. They take the “I can’t be bothered” approach to parenting, and this can lead to kids who rage out of control.

          The authoritarian parent is the opposite of the permissive parent. Authoritarian parents use harsh, rigid controls and exploit their children’s fears to encourage good behaviour. In the best-selling book The Road Less Traveled, Dr. M. Scott Peck says, “These parents sacrifice love in their need for control and domination over their children, and their reward is children who are excessively fearful of the future.” An authoritarian parenting style can be even more damaging than a permissive one. In this type of household, the punishment for breaking rules—many of which may be unfair and inappropriate—is often hitting.

          When it comes to parenting, a balanced approach is the best. Set reasonable rules, and consistently enforce them in a firm but gentle and positive manner. Use reason, praise, and rewards to encourage positive behaviour. When your children are struggling, offer guidance without fighting their battles for them. The child raised in a balanced environment feels loved, safe, and secure. This child is more likely to achieve his or her full potential.