Parenting Rules for Permissive Parents: Use
These with Caution
by: Jean Tracy. MSS
I remember a childless couple who slept with
their dogs. They were clearly uncomfortable
with the situation. Yet every night their
dogs crawled into bed with them.
During the day the
two black labs ran through the house, climbed on the
furniture, and regularly ate human food from the
hands of their masters. Did you know some parents
treat their kids like this couple treated their
dogs? Let’s find out how.
Recently, my own
Yellow Lab, Chum, had knee surgery. While sitting in
the waiting room, I noticed this sign on the
doctor’s wall.
Dog Rules:
The dog is Not
allowed in the house.
Okay, the dog is
allowed in the house, but Only in certain rooms.
Alright, the dog is
allowed in all rooms, but has to Stay Off the
furniture.
Well, okay, the dog
can get on the old furniture Only.
Fine, the dog is
allowed on all the furniture, but is Not Allowed to
sleep on the bed.
Okay, the dog is
allowed on the bed, but Only by invitation
The dog can sleep on
the bed anytime, but Not Under the covers.
Okay, the dog can
sleep under the covers every night.
Humans Must Ask
permission to sleep under the covers with the dogs.
So what’s the
problem? Could it be that the Dog Rules, really
meant that The Dogs Ruled? How does this apply to
parents?
The inconsistent or
permissive parent treats their kids a lot like these
dogs. When parents state what they expect and then
give in to the demands of their kids, parents
trample their own authority and let their kids rule.
If this is happening
in your house, you need to change and you can
change! Why do you need to change?
Because being
consistent gives your child:
A sense of being
loved
A feeling of
security
Respect for you
Self-discipline
A likable
personality
How can you change?
First, you must decide to change. Second, follow the
5 rules listed below.
5 Consistent Rules:
1. Think wisely
before you speak.
2. If you say “No,” mean it.
3. Use a firm voice.
4. Use few words.
5. No arguing.
The Wrap-Up:
The couple with the
black labs changed their own behavior.
The dogs went to the
dog house.
The couple enjoyed
sleeping in their bed alone.
Being consistent is
one of the best ways to show love.
If you’re
inconsistent, you can change.
By following the 5
Consistent Rules listed above, you'll be kind and
firm, show love, and be a character builder too.
Here's to your consistent success!
