Protecting vs. controlling our children

Naturally parents want to protect their children. I often work with families that try to control just about every situation in order to protect their children. Though very well intended, controlling or preventing your children from trying new things is not a good idea.

Children need to try new things in order to learn new things. Everyone learns much better by doing and children are not exempt of this rule. Parents should encourage children to do new things. Parent scan and should provide support and information to them to best prepare them.

Also parents ( especially dad's with their daughters..sorry dads) need to allow their children to do things that are age appropriate and socially appropriate. Teenagers want to communicate with other teens ( mostly texting nonstop) , they are interested in their sexuality and development, they are interested and like in all sorts of things that adults do not understand, and parents need be able to manage the balance of allowing their children to grow, explore, experience, and learn while keeping them safe and well prepared for life.

I know it is worrisome sometimes but respect their natural and appropriate desire for more privacy and life experience that you will not be part of. Be there for them when they need you. Safety always first but be sure to keep the lines of communication open. Parenting is not about parents controlling, it is about teaching and preparing your children for life and independence.