Back to School

Did the summer really slip away already? Does the title of this blog bring positive or negative feelings... or both? It almost sounds like, "Back to the ol' drawing board". In a sense, it is, but this is a new 'blackboard', bringing an end to summer fun and a beginning to another year of learning, even for parents.

We are always embarking on journeys when it comes to parenting. Often, what we learn is not something taught in the classroom, and needs to be revamped yearly as well. For instance, discipline... it changes with their ages. Just when we find something that works, they grow into a new phase, or the same thing with one child just doesn't quite cut it with the other child(ren). So, keep an open mind to change as needed, but try to stick with the 4 C's of discipline:

Choices - you have more than one... let your child give his/her opinion as well, knowing that it's ultimately up to you.
Consequences - you decide the punishment to "fit the crime" according to their age and behavior (ie, remove a toy from your toddler that was thrown; add chores to your school age child that talked back or didn't complete a task; or take the car keys from your teen that came in late).
Consistency - stay firm and "stick to your guns" about what you take away or have them do (just be sure to think it through first). Never decide in haste and punish yourself!
Calmness - deliver all decisions in a calm manner (wait until you're ready, even if it is the next day before you can accomplish this).

Oh, and when you 'blow it' (as we all do), just learn from that, pick up the pieces, and keep on keeping on. Ask for forgiveness and be SURE to forgive yourself as well!

Remember that your child(ren) are growing and changing even more than you... and that "He who began a good work in you (them) will carry it on to completion". It will happen in God's time, not ours. I guess patience is a real virtue and important for all phases of parenting. ^-^ I wish you success on that journey!