Today, we live in a very individualistic society. We often limit human interaction out of fear or in favor of convenience. But are these things truly worth their cost?
In our current societal context, we must not lose sight of the fact that neighbors can help parents look out for their children. When we isolate ourselves too much, we disconnect ourselves and our children from potential sources of guidance and accountability.
How Neighbors Can Help Parents Hold Children Accountable
Do you recall engaging in some kind of bad behavior in your neighborhood as a child, only to be caught by a nearby adult? In those days, you may have been taken back to your house by this adult and handed over to your parents. In a way, neighbors felt a civic responsibility to step in and help correct our unruly actions. They may have even issued some measure of discipline somewhere in this process. Right and wrong were made clear, and we understood that if an adult caught us doing wrong, our parents would certainly hear about it and discipline us accordingly.
This may not have been our favorite reality as kids, but it did foster a secure feeling deep in our souls. Likewise, parents today should try to work with other safe and trustworthy adults in their neighborhoods to create small communities that support and benefit children. This will confirm to your children that they will be held accountable by the people around them. It will help them feel secure and should ultimately lead to peace and good behavior.
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