August 21, 2000
FAMILY MATTERS:
When are mom and dad over-protective?
___As parents of young school-age children, how can we know the difference between being protective and over-protective?
KAY TOWERS
Program Coordinator
LifeWay Fellowship, Killeen
__ Pray. As Christian parents, we desire the wisdom to guide the children God has entrusted to us.
___Begin by asking yourself if you're wanting to shelter your children for their protection or yours. Evaluate your protectiveness in light of who you are wanting to protect.
___We all want to protect our children from people who could harm them. Talk with your children about strangers. Let them know you expect them to tell you when anyone has placed them in an uncomfortable situation. Discuss what to do if they must be alone at home. When outside, have them use the buddy system. Know the homes and families of friends your children play with or spend the night. These issues do not fall under being over-protective. Keep communication lines open.
___Many undesirable influences are in our world, and we need to have boundaries as to what our young children are exposed to. Take note of what enters your home over the television or radio. Evaluate and set guidelines as to which programs are appropriate for your children to watch. When applicable, use things that occur in the media to explain to your children about right and wrong. Use teachable moments in day-to-day living.
___We can't keep our children under our wings at all times. Over-protection causes one not to be able to attain independence. As parents, we want our children ultimately to become independent and able to function without having to have a parent present. This means we give guidance and direction and then allow them to make some of their own decisions. Yes, they will make mistakes and even fail at times, but this is part of the learning process. Be there to encourage so they will be willing to try again.
___Our goal as parents should be to equip them to learn good judgment and to make decisions that will keep them safe. When these skills are learned early in life, children will have the tools already in place when they reach the teen years. These are skills that will be used throughout life as they become the adults God desires them to be.
___Remember, God created your children and loves and cares for them. Begin each day thanking God for them and praying for his loving protection over them.
___
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