Editor

Parenting a child is the most important function that a mother or father or guardian can perform. Often, parents feel that by giving their children all the comforts that they did not get to enjoy as a child, they are giving their children love. Love is discipline.

If you discipline your child, you are giving him/her a gift that no amount of money can buy. The qualities of respect, independence, tolerance, reverence and responsibility can only be instilled through daily practice of the small, insignificant tasks which help to shape our characters. Having responsibilities in the home teach a child about time management, job satisfaction and purposefulness.

Wearing their school uniform with pride, having clean clothing and polished shoes, teaches a child how to present themselves to the world – not just today, but one day in their place of employment. Instilling in your child the value of respect, for themselves and others, teaches a child about having good principles and values.

Teach your child to have acceptable standards – a child who does not define his/her own principles at a young age will have them defined by someone else. Parents should never apologise for instilling rules in their home or make excuses for their efforts to control the actions of their children. A child craves discipline and often looks to parents for guidance. “Children may sometimes not hear what you are saying because your actions are drowning out your words.” It is our responsibility as parents to live by example – to lead.

Our town is plagued by the influx of drugs into our communities. It is essential that as parents we are aware of the movements of our children. Know who your child’s friends are. Ensure that they are off the streets and safely indoors at a reasonable hour. Instill a routine in your home for after school – change out of uniform, have a meal, do homework, chores and then perhaps visit a friend.
Talk to your child when you get home – learn about his/ her day. Get involved with what your child is doing at school – or NOT doing at school.

Often, we have an idealised view of the little angel that you brought into the world. Is your angel the school bully, dealer, delinquent or devil? Is your child habitually arriving at school late? Why? Liaise with your child’s school on a regular basis.

Parenting is a labour of love. Emphasis on the word ‘labour’! It requires serious effort and commitment. Is your child that blossom that brightens up the neighbourhood? Or is he the weed that is growing wild, unchecked and uncontrolled?

Because I Said So