Life with three boys is certainly an adventure. Just the other day, Toby (my 2 year old), decided even after several warnings to throw a metal airplane at his big brother. Shortly afterwards, we had not one, but two boys crying.
I took Toby to the “naughty step” which is a tool that we use to teach the concepts of discipline, obedience, repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
However, the naughty step no longer seems to be effective when working with my older boys. Once so effective, they have become immune to its impact. In order to get across these same concepts, I have had to find new tools. If I use the naughty step with them, they become angry and frustrated that I treat them like they are still two. The conflict is no longer focused on obedience, but upon our under-developed relationship.
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As parents, sometimes we use out-dated tools as we engage with our emerging adults. We fail to realize that our little babies are no longer babies (illustrated by this powerful commercial).
A new phase of parenting requires a new set of tools. The purpose of EA Resources is to equip you with the tools that you need in order to help your children enter and succeed in adulthood.
It is important to remember that while your child might still need to work through the same concepts of discipline, obedience, repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation, you are no longer a controller of the process, but an invited companion of their journey. Your child establishes both where they are headed, and how they will get there.
What outdated tool are you still attempting to use? How do you need to develop in your skills as a parent?
How has your parenting tool box changed as your child has become an adult? What words of wisdom can you leave for others?
