Making Rules and Sticking to Them

BASIC RULES ON MAKING RULES:

• DON'T make a rule unless you plan to follow through on it.
• BE CONSISTENT--follow through EVERY time.

RULES SHOULD BE:

• DEFINABLE, UNDERSTANDABLE--Child is aware instantly if rule is broken. Parent can live with the definition of the rule.
• Tell the reason for the rule.
• Tell what will happen if the rule is broken.

WHEN AND IF THE RULE IS BROKEN:

• Enforce the rule with a consequence.

Make the child aware of the consequence in advance.

At first the punishment may be light. With EACH breaking, increase the punishment.

Expect the rule to be tested.

Expect "kicking up dust", bargaining, "I won't do it again," "I don't care," door slamming, screaming.

IGNORE THESE REACTIONS AND ENFORCE THE RULE.

Parents should try to stay calm.

• In about one week, expect the rule to be tested again. Be sure to
  FOLLOW THROUGH ONCE AGAIN.

Spiritual resources are important for a balanced approach to handling any circumstance of life. In a relationship with God, parents and their children have the assurance that God is with them always.