What Can Parents Teach Children?

Parents can and must teach their children right from wrong. When they do the right thing, they are rewarded with praise and love. When they do the wrong thing, the parent should explain why it was wrong, and what the consequences could be from doing it wrong.

If the child does something destructive, like purposely breaking a toy that belonged to a sibling, explain why this was wrong and ask this child to give up one of his toys and give it to the other to replace what had been broken. Show all your children the same understanding. Point out to them the type of punishment that society hands out when a crime is committed. Don't sugar coat it. They need to know. Then talk about something pleasant and loving. Let them know you are not upset with them, you are just helping them to understand, so that they will not get into trouble with society.

You need to teach them to think for themselves. Do not let another child talk them into doing something that they know is wrong. If that child insists that they are going to do it anyway, then walk away. Do not even be there, because by being there, you are considered guilty along with the rest, according to the law.

Let them know they can talk to you about anything. You will be glad to answer any questions for them. You are the person they should be confiding in and listen to them when they are ready. Do not put them off. Take time right then to get the right information to them. It will pay off in the long run.