Daily Struggles of Parents Keeping Their Children on the Right Path

We all have our worries and concerns when it comes to raising our children. Times are certainly different and there are so many chances of things going wrong in a instant, that the thought of letting your child walk out the front door to play, or attend school is a nightmare. Peer pressure is high and the television programs of today seem to shape and impact our children's mind at an alarming rate. What can a parent do to keep in touch with their children without being noted as controlling or entrusting?

I am scratching my head on that question because my oldest, whom is at the tender age of twelve is driving me nuts. The desires to surf the Internet, to having her own cell phone and yes...more privacy is giving my brain a beat down. A twelve year old needing more privacy? I could imagine telling my mom that! Yeah right, I would have came home and my door would have been "off the hinges", so to say!

I've talked with other parents and then I've reflected on my own experiences as a teenager growing up. I can't help but to laugh at everything that my mother preached to me, because I am preaching it to my own children now! Arguh!!!!!

OK, I was able to come up with an outstanding list of things we can do to make sure we are there for our children while at the same time keeping an eye on them. I think this will help so many!

1) Plan a family night. If it is impossible to get out make it an evening at home. I have found everyone in the kitchen doing something to help contribute to the nights meal is an awesome for all family members to connect and talk about their day.

2) Limit television and Internet time. This time could be used for the family to go for a walk, or do outside chores. having the children perform household duties will allow them to see from and adults point of view, in regards to the care and maintenance it tales to keep the home properly functioning.

3) Parents need to establish one on one time with their children. This time will male the child feel as though their relationship with each parent is special and very close. This is the time to express how much you love them, how proud you are of them and yes--- to inform them that they are growing up to be a fine adult. This time also gives an opportunity to see the world from your child point of view. Hey, and lets not forget. They may feel like ratting their sisters and brothers out in the process as well.

4) Realize that you are not your children's friends! Make sure you enforce the fact that you are always there they need you, but make sure they understand that YOU are the Parent and the ultimate provider! Being a parent is NOT a joke! You are responsible for everything that your child does.

5) Attend as many school events that you possibly can! make your child feel as if they are the greatest swimmer, track star, dancer, cheerleader and baseball player. They need your encouragement and support.

6) Listen to your child, even when you are tired and not in the mood. They may be crying out for attention that could later turn into a call for help if their calls go UN-answered.

7) Don't be so quick to discipline. Find out all sides and angles to the story. Especially if the act falls out of the normal behavior pattern of your child!

8) Have a party or two for your child on spacial occasions. This will give you the perfect chance to 'peep' out your child's friends. Stay hidden and only make appearances when you are simply enforcing a reminder that parents are still around.

9) Don't embarrass your children by trying to be the cool parent! That is so not the way to connect with your child! Trust me sticking to your distance and making appearances when requested is a great way to let your child feel their new found freedom.

10) Teach them that trust is not given--- it' s earned! You've caught them in a lie, now what? Take away everything that they hold dear to their heart! IPOD's, video games, cell phones, computers and yup, their privacy! Pull that door right off the hinges! I promise they will shape up quicker than a out of shape diva!