Parenting 1

CONFRONTING REBELLION

What prevents you from calmly following through with consequences when your kids sin or rebel? I resisted giving consequences because I wanted to avoid angry responses such as: "Chill, mom!" "You're mean." Or, "I'll do it later." I tried reasoning with them, but this usually backfired. I tried arguing my point, but the more I talked, the angrier they seemed to become. I was hiding behind words (nagging, reminding, and arguing) to avoid giving consequences.

When you get an angry response for delivering consequences, don't escalate the situation by nagging or replying in anger. Words are easy. You may think you are being "strong" when you argue your point forcefully or make dictatorial decrees, but the truth is it takes more strength to hold your tongue and give consequences calmly and with empathy. That is a model of real strength.

Confront rebellion calmly and deliver consequences, rather than words.