"I teach them correct principles and let them govern themselves" - Joseph Smith.
"Parents bringing children into this world and then rearing them in love and righteousness is essential to the great plan of happiness." (Craig Hart)
Let's face it, parenting is THE HARDEST job to do. It is also the most rewarding. The thing to remember is no matter the choices our children make, if we are doing our best, partnering with God, we can be assured we have been great parents. It is place to learn to be like Christ, and we have the opportunity to practice and emphasize virtues such as charity, gentleness, kindness, long-suffering, persuasion, and appropriate discipline in a warm and nurturing relationship. By contrast, unrighteous dominion centers on coercion (force) and makes for less than satisfying relationships.
Our children need:
1) Models and examples of appropriate behavior.
2) Warmth and love.
3) Opportunities to make choices.
4) Limits and boundaries, while allowing room for compromise.
5) Clear and reasonable expectations.
No small job, right?
David O. McKay observed, "Children are more influenced by sermons you act than by the servants you preach."
When children feel they are your highest priority, they are less likely to push buttons and seek attention through misbehavior. They need to be talked to and listened to, hugged and played with, asked for their opinions, know they are valued.
Joseph F. Smith counseled, "You can only correct your children by love, in kindness, by love unfeigned, by persuasion, and reason."
