“A perpetual holiday is a good working definition of hell.” – George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)
ScreamFree Take: Kids will have you believe that they don’t enjoy structure. They will tell you – just as soon as they are able – that they want to sit around and play all day without having to do anything. Don’t believe them, for they know not what they say.
Kids (and parents) thrive on structure. Every now and again, a day off in pajamas is a fun treat. But taken too often, this treat will make everyone sick to their stomachs. Kids like to feel a sense of accomplishment every bit as much as adults. Give them chores, set aside time for study, set limits on tv and computer usage. Sure, they’ll gripe at first, but remember – what kids say they want and what they really need are often two very different things.
Taken from ScreamFree Tip of the Day with Jenny Runkel
The Confident Mom’s Take: I couldn’t agree more with what was stated above! I think the word ‘structure’ has a bad rap and some parents see it has confining and restricting – that is so far from the truth. I know in my own daily life, if I have routines set up for my day I get so much more accomplished, I am not floundering through my day trying to make sense of seemingly chaos. Kids are in need of routine and structure, so they know what is coming, what is expected of them. I am sure if you set up some basic structure in your home you will find that your day is easier and your kids are happier.
To find out more about the principles of ScreamFree Parenting, check out the resources available now to help you create a calm and cooperative home, or order your own personal copy of ScreamFree Parenting NOW!
