When kids reach a certain age, parents often start giving them more freedom and independence. While this is a common and recommended practice, are there more and less effective ways to go about it?
Well, like with most things in parenting, wisdom and caution should be used when giving kids freedom in new or different areas of life. Allowing kids to learn by making their own choices can be a good thing, but in some areas, the risks can outweigh the benefits.
How Giving Kids Freedom in the Wrong Areas Can Lead to Trouble
Many experts on parenting emphasize the value of giving kids more freedom as they get older. The outcome is meant to be that children grow and learn as they are exposed to the benefits and consequences that come from good and bad choices. I would agree that children should be allowed more freedom as they get older. But, before parents get carried away, they should make sure that their kids are responsible with whatever freedoms they already have.
Considering some of the more corrupt and unhealthy aspects of our culture, moms and dads also need to recognize the areas where freedom can be allowed safely and the areas where freedom could cause more harm than good. Giving a teenager complete freedom in who, how, and when they want to date, for example, can lead to more trouble and heartbreak than good. I’m talking about things that cause more harm than, say, your child getting ripped off when selling his or her Playstation—your son or daughter can learn a lesson through something like this, without taking much of a risk. In other areas, the risks of giving your kids complete freedom are too great. While your kids are still living at home, consider holding back some freedom in these areas.
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