10 Mistakes Parents Make:
1. Lecture vs. Discuss- Teach a child the process of making a good decision by simply discussing alternatives rather than lecturing.
2. Ignoring the obvious- sleeping late, missing classes, missing curfew, new friends you don't know.
3. Not following through on rules and consequences- If you ground the child stick to your punishment. Make clear in advance the consequences of breaking a rule.
4. Giving up on family time- Family time is essential.
5. Setting Unreasonable Goals- Make sure the goals you set are attainable.
6. Assuming good grades mean no other problems- A smart kid maybe drinking, using drugs, etc. Don't write off the obvious signs because the grades are good.
7. Pointing out the negative, Expecting only the positive- Don't expect only good behavior, good grades and overall "goodness". Everyone makes mistakes
8. Leaving the educating to "someone else"- Assuming your child will learn about the dangers of alcohol, sex, drugs from someone else.
9.Not taking the time to know what's up with adolescents today- It is every parent's responsibility to close the generational gap.
10. Giving up too soon: what happened to the "three times" rule- Hold your ground, if it doesn't work the first time try again, be flexible.
SUCCESSFUL PARENTING, IS CONSISTENT PARENTING!!!!!