Parenting is a bit of a head game. You have to outsmart your children in every way, or they will gain the upper hand.

And most of the time, we have no idea what we got ourselves into. We just take it day by day, and hope and pray that we will continue to find our way.

But as every great detective, they must get into the headspace; that MO — “method of operation.” Why do they do what they do? Yet, in the search, there are many twists and turns.

So as you raise your children up in a world of unknowns, it’s imperative to set principles that you put into practice.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Set principles and put into practice!

You know the saying, “Practice makes perfect.” Now, for the most part, that saying is false. However, you can argue and defend that the more you practice the greater the chances you have in getting whatever it is right.

So in that respect, Yes! “Practice makes perfect.”

And if we want our children to make sound decisions in their lives, it’s critical that you, as the parent, set principles that will increase their knowledge of what matters and then put it all into practice every day.

Exhausted yet? I know I am at times. But don’t overthink your responsibilities. Make it fun and see it as the work of a private detective or investigator. Then, you’ll always be on top.

You gotta get pats on the back somewhere. LOL 🙂

1. Keep in mind what STAGE OF LIFE your child is in. The way you teach a two-year-old a principle is totally different than that of a twenty-year-old. The principles of what you are teaching must be age appropriate. And then, set the expectations of how you want your child to respond or act in accordance with the principles.
2. See life as teachable moments. You don’t have to hammer all the lessons in one day. They’ll never stick. So in order to make your principles sticky, you have to engage the principles on a daily basis. Build consistency to solidify the principles.
3. Correct along the way. Just as you and I are not perfect, neither are our children. Remind them often if there is an error. Think about teaching your child how to drive. It takes hours of driving to gain the experience needed in order to successfully drive a vehicle with little to no damage. There has to be course correction along the way.

Now, you don’t want to be an outlandish parent. But you do have to parent. It’s not about being friends, but teaching life lessons so they can go out and impact the world that they touch with their own gifts and talents.

CHALLENGE: What principle(s) are you teaching now?

CAUTION: However, our kids are not immortals. Let them know that with any action comes consequences, good or bad.

CELEBRATE: As our children grow up every day, recognize their great decisions. Let them know you see them. Acknowledge their miles of greatness.

Kids need to feel seen and heard, but also trained up within the principles that matter to you as a family and practice them through their journey.

You’re teaching them how to….

“Master today to impact tomorrow!” ~ Kristanne Wargo

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“