Nurturing Great KidsSample

More Is Less

It’s so easy to point out the flaws in our children. They seem obvious, especially when they’re little or they’re teens. When they become adults, they still seem obvious. It’s always been true that focusing on the negative is easier than the positive. If you don’t believe me, just watch the evening news.

Our challenge as parents is to focus on the positives in our children and to give credit where it’s due as we recognize those positives and realize it’s in our power to act. Even if you have a child who is disobedient most of the time, point out, celebrate and reward those times when they do obey and their attitude is positive.

Every home needs a little bit of celebration. If your natural tendency is to focus on the negative, your children will react accordingly. Taking time to remind them that you will also key in on their positive actions will go a long way in unlocking tension in the relationship. Celebrate more and focus on negatives less.

Parenting Principle

Maintain a healthy balance between celebrating the positive and needing to point out the negative when it’s helpful.

Points to Ponder

How do you acknowledge negative behavior without building animosity?

How do you celebrate positive behavior?

How could you do a better job of celebrating accomplishments?

The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.