Curfews: Setting Them and Sticking to It

Curfews are a great tool for parents but they can also be the cause of many arguments and sleepless nights. At one point in our lives we had to live by them, but now as parents ourselves, it can be difficult to enforce them; especially if you hated it while you growing up. Being well liked by your children may be vital for some parents, but developing your child into a responsible adult is more important.

Curfews have many benefits. They are not just a parent's way to show who the boss is. Essentially, a curfew is a house rule. In the future, once your child is on their own, there will be many "rules" they will have to follow; a curfew is good practice. By teaching them respect for the house rules, they will gain a greater respect for the rules of life.

Time management is a struggle for many people. Curfews make them management their time during a period in their life that is more carefree. By enforcing the curfew, they will have a better sense of what time it is or how much time they have left. You will see a better understanding of time budgeting.

Don't forget about their future job performance. Workers that can meet deadlines are well respected in the workplace. It may even be the cause for promotions or better opportunities. By teaching your child to meet their curfew, on time, they will form a habit that will last with them.

Knowing the importance of a curfew will give parents a better understand of why it is important to enforce it. We all want the peace of mind that our child is safe at home and tucked into bed, but if you also think of it as a teaching tool you may have an easier time enforcing it. Adults are held accountable for everything they do in the workplace and society; start making your teenagers accountable.

Strict enforcement of a curfew is a necessity. Additionally, both parents have to agree on the time. Teenagers are smart and they will play one parent against the other; this is not good for you or your child' relationship. Some form of punishment is the key to success. If your child is late, there has to be consequences. Corporal punishment is out of the question at this age, but you can take away the car, activities, computer, video games, or what ever else you can use for leverage.

Set the rules ahead of time, review the consequences and stick to your guns. Remember, if you waiver just one time, it will make the future enforcement more difficult. We all have weak moments, but keep in mind you are doing it for their safety as well as their development.