Quote From: LuccibAfter reading all the messages I think it's safe to say that what it all boils down to is it takes a lot more effort to be a GOOD parent than a FUN parent. The object is to prepare your child for life by teaching, guiding, praising, disciplining, loving and that takes more time and effort than ignoring what they've done, giving in to what they want, assuming it's a stage they'll grow out of, etc. As for the motherinlaw who doesnt make her child bathe regularly - we've all battled the tantrum - but you dont give in. The mom who thinks it would be fine to buy her child a corvette if she wanted to - why?
What will you buy the child in hghschool - a Mercedes? It's not about pamppering them and showering them with gifts. It's about rewarding their hardwork or the responsibility they've shown.
It IS everyone's business what you do with your child - you are living in a town, you are part of a neighborhood, your child attends a school with other kids - it's not about outdoing your neighbor or giving the child what you never had. Sometimes the less you give them and the more you expect from them the more successful they'll be. Don't be afraid to say no - they love you anyway...and I speak from experience.
After reading all the messages I think it's safe to say that what it all boils down to is it takes a lot more effort to be a GOOD parent than a FUN parent.
Absolutely! Kids don't want their parents to be their best friend. They want boundaries. They want routine. They want limits. And you're right, it's harder. But your kids will thank you in the end by becoming responsible, level-headed adults.
