Sons Are Breaking Family Rules

When family rules are made, there should also be consequences set up for breaking them, which the whole family should agree on.
Q
I am the proud mother of two wonderful children whom I love a lot. However, lately they have been breaking many family rules. What should I do when they come in past curfew or talk back? I want to be known as the strictest mother around, but I also want to be known as one of the nicest and funniest.
A
You say that your sons are breaking the family rules. Are these rules that the boys had a part in making? What consequences were set up if the boys broke the rules? I encourage you to sit down with the whole family and discuss these situations. Come to an agreement on curfew and respect and the consequences for the boys' behavior. I would also encourage you to think about what your goal is: Do you want your sons to behave appropriately and become responsible adults, or is your goal preserving your reputation as a mom? Being nice and funny is not the opposite of setting boundaries and limits for one's children. All of this is part of responsible parenthood.
Connie Collins, professional school counselor, worked for 35 years in public education as a teacher and counselor at the middle school and secondary levels. Collins worked daily with the parents of the students in her various schools, and has facilitated several parenting groups.

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