Things change, times change, people change. As a society, I feel that many people have forgotten about some of the basics in parenting. This post might be harsh to some of you – if I offend you, comment.
I’m so tired of parents telling me that their kids are out of control. There’s a difference between out of control – A. being wild and playing, not sitting still and having fun…and B. out of control disrespectful and obnoxious. I’m talking about the later type. Both types are part of being a kid. Yes, my kids are too occasionally. All kids are both at some point. Here’s the thing, you need to pick your battles – Type A is annoying to us, but kids need to express themselves. I catch myself being petty about little stupid things with the boys. “Put your shoes here – act like this – stop that…” it’s more about me and what makes me tick. I need to get over it and remember that they are boys with a high level of energy.
Then there’s Type B. This is what has me on edge today. I went into Starbucks to get my green tea iced latte and left stressed. The mom in front of me was trying to order something and kept getting interrupted by her like 7 year old asking for a cookie. She was doing the holding her index finger up – to signal that in a moment she’d be available for him. He grew louder. She ignored him. He called her stupid. She ignored him. He hit her. She said – “Stop, that’s not nice.” He did it again. She ignored him, then handed him a cookie.
HOLY CRAP!!!! What is going on?! I feel like I see this over and over and over. What’s happening is that this is setting up problems for you as a parent – you have to deal with bratty kids – and your creating kids that have no understanding of what respect, responsibility and accountability is. That’s a mess for both parent and son.
I used to think that working parents were more guilty of indulging their kids more, but as I look around at people I know, it’s seems a bit more equal. Giving in to your child’s whims doesn’t make you look like a hero. Well, maybe for a mili-second. But it really creates bigger challenges as your kids get older. I have lots to say on this and will talk more this week.
I’d love to hear your feedback.
