Each generation of parents have asked themselves the same questions. Are they doing a good job? Are they avoiding making the same mistakes as their parents? Are they ruining their children’s lives? More than likely, you have asked yourself similar questions in your parenting career as well.
Let’s face it, it doesn’t matter what generation we are speaking of, parenting is tough work. Today, however, it seems to have taken a turn for the worse and we are dealing with problems that other generations could not even possibly imagine. If you would like to do a better job as a parent, try to avoid these 5 mistakes that many parents make.
1. Amusement above All Else – We certainly want to avoid having our children throw a fit or become bored in a public situation. In order to avoid this problem, we will often pass off our electronic devices to keep them amused. As your child continues to use the electronic device more and more frequently, it becomes “normal” rather than being a special treat. We often try to create magical moments for them as well on an ongoing basis. It’s time for you to stop trying to plan your child’s life as if they were constantly on vacation. If your child is not able to find something to do without your help, they need help.
2. Everybody Wins – Life is tough, and it has always been that way. Unfortunately, we have spoiled our children into thinking everybody is a winner, regardless of whether we lose or not. Life is not going to treat them in a similar way when they get older, so if we don’t prepare them for that realization now, it is going to be tough for them. Your children need a sense of self-worth but that can come from having them try to do their best, not by letting them believe that there is nobody better.
3. Feelings Are Everything – Today, it is more about how we feel about things than ponying up and doing the right thing. Quite honestly, there are times in life when we must do what we have to do, even if we don’t feel like it. If you want your child’s input on the matter, perhaps you could ask them what they think, not how they feel. They should then do the right thing for the situation.
4. Prayer and the Bible Are No Longer Important – It wasn’t all that many years ago that the Bible was largely respected, even if people didn’t take the time to crack it open. Today, most children are unaware of what the Bible is, let alone having any respect for it. Take the time to read the Bible yourself and allow your children to grow up recognizing that there is something special about it. Study the Bible together as a family, even if it is only a minute here or there consistently.
5. Children First, Marriage Last – Many families focus their entire life on the children and the marriage ends up taking a backseat. You may find yourself pulling all nighters to prepare for a school event but if your spouse needs something, you are likely to tell them to do it themselves. Someday, your children are going to leave home so make sure you’re building the relationship with your spouse. If you want to give something great to your kids, build a family relationship, including everyone involved.
Do you see yourself in any of these situations? It is not too late to make changes. Continue to work on your family, your marriage and your children and be the best parent you can be. Just make sure that you don’t do it to their detriment.
Via: godvine
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