My heart is breaking. I am reading so many posts from mommas sharing frustrations in parenting. They feel like failures. They feel alone. They feel defeated.
He ignores what I tell him to do.
She is emotional, loud, and demands her own way.
He is so strong willed and laughs when I discipline him.
Parenting is hard. Blood, sweat, and tears hard.
But there is hope in parenting!
Take the authority back that your child has stolen, roll up your sleeves, get your spouse on the same page, and it will not take long to turn this ship around. Yes it will be ugly for a few weeks but you will have peace like no other when your child experiences the peace of knowing his parents love him enough to say no and provide safe boundaries.
Four things that I suggest.
1. Best Parenting Books
For younger children, I suggest the Love and Logic Magic for Early Childhood by Jim and Charles Fay. This is by far the most practical, loving, parenting book that I have read for young children. While not biblically supported, biblical principles run throughout.
If you have an elementary-aged child and want quick results, order the book Have a New Kid By Friday by Dr Kevin Leman. It sounds like a crazy book but it has been extremely helpful in my parenting. Dr. Leman will give you practical tips to turn things around. But know, you can not waver once you decide to set the boundaries suggested.
2. ABCJLM YouTube Parenting Video Playlist
While you are waiting for these books to come in the mail, begin with “What God Has Called Parents to Do” in the ABCJLM Parenting Playlist. Sometimes we search for the “how” and miss the “why” of parenting. This video will give you a biblical understanding of your responsibility as a parent.
3. Parenting to Impress
Attend the ABCJLM Parenting Conference on Sept 8th in Northwest Arkansas. You will be given a toolbox of ideas to lead your child on a path to love God and love others. Meet other moms, dads, and teachers, discuss ideas, and ask questions. It may be the best money you have ever spend on your family. http://abcjesuslovesme.com/conference/
4. Pray
James 1:5 says…
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
You are not a failure. You are not alone. You are not defeated. You can do this!
