Here are some steps you can take today to help your kids withstand peer pressure and communicate respect at school:
- Remain consistent to a set of values that are important to you. Consistency doesn't mean just preaching--children follow what you do more than what you say.
- Know your own standards and discuss them with your children. Don't rely only on school, church, or television to teach moral values.
- Don't overreact to disobedience. Taking a child's tantrums personally may cause you to lose control rather than provide a source of security for a child who feels out of control himself.
- Remember that punishment is just one facet of discipline, just as diet is one facet of health. It has a place, but must be used wisely when you are calm. When a child disobeys, first use loving guidance--teach what he has done wrong and point him toward what he should do instead. "You may not throw the toy; you may throw the ball over here."
- When you have a bad day, admit to being frustrated, tired, or angry. Show your child that emotions are a normal part of being human and we can learn to control them.
- Don't feel guilty. Children may be frustrated by limits and say things they don't mean--even the horrible "I hate you!" words. You are the adult. Let them know you love them, no matter what, and you are confident in your own actions. They will learn to have confidence in you as well.