- Boundaries Are Crucial
Lehman reports on how to set limits appropriately:
“If you know your child’s friends are engaging in behavior that isn’t in line with your values, then I think you should set limits on how much time they spend with those kids—or whether or not your child can see them at all. If his friends are breaking the law or doing things that are unhealthy, you can say, “Maybe they’re your friends, but I’m not going to let you hang out with them.”
All children need expectations of their behavior from their parents. Once that is set, they need to know that it is unacceptable not to follow the rules set forth.
They may defy them, and constantly voice their disapproval, but your unwavering position on moral and behavioral standards sets the tone for who you believe they can become.
Knowing that there is accountability for your actions is a life lesson that will benefit them through adulthood.