The Trouble With Parents

By: Brian Pratt

Like most parents, my partner and I work hard to develop our
children into healthy, well adjusted people. We want them to
have the skills to persue whatever objectives they choose for
themselves in this world.

None of us are perfect parents and we all learn from the past.
The purpose of this article is to pass on one of our
experiences. It had a profound effect on the way we approach
the parenting game.

A few years ago, our two children were aged two and four. Over
a period of weeks one of our boys had become increasingly
naughty. His behaviour was rubbing off on his brother. Mum and
dad had explored the usual discipline options but nothing
seemed to work.

Eventually, as my partner and I discussed the boys behaviour,
we decided that there must be a trigger. If we could find it,
we thought we could perhaps effect a change for the better.

We wound back the clock to the time when the behaviour change
emerged, then looked at what we had all been doing at around
that time.

As it turned out, the onset corresponded with a time when my
job was being restructured and my partner was as worried as I
about the outcome. We were both focussed on ourselves and quite
naturally were exhibiting signs of stress.

The result of this pressure, was that we had very little time
for our children and they were not getting the attention they
needed from us.

We decided to try an experiment. We set aside all our other
priorities for the weekend and spend time with boys. Nothing
special, just being with them and giving them quality time.

Their behaviours changed almost instantly. And it was a change
for the better.

This small experience had a profound effect on the way we
approach parenting. We learned that the behaviours of our
children are significantly affected by our own behaviours.

We are now a lot more careful about the amount of time we spend
with our boys. When there is a behavioural change from them, we
look to ourselves first then check the external influences
before we choose a course of action.

Parenting is a wonderful journey, full of twists turns and
surprises. I hope that by sharing this small part of our life
it will help you in yours.

About The Author: Brian Pratt is a 47 year old New Zealander.
He owns a Plug-In Profit Site at http://www.bestrealincome.com.
If you are looking for a home business be sure to check out his
site. You can contact Brian at brian@bestrealincome.com