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I am the parent of five children, four boys and one girl. I take total responsibility for my children's bad behavior. If my children are doing something wrong and behaving in a manner that is not appropriate, than it is my job to correct the situation. I am their teacher at the moment and if I allow this behavior to continue than it is not their fault. They know no better.

I really believe that having more than one child to raise is easier. I know from personal experience, the older ones teach and warn the younger ones about their bad behavior and the consequences. More than once I have heard a whispered conversation between two of my children where the older one was explaining to the younger one that they had better stop what they were doing because they would be in big trouble if I found out.

My favorite technique for getting my children's attention is to start counting to three. It did not take much time for any of them to understand that if I got to three and they had not stopped what they were doing, the consequences would not be pleasant. Of course, the consequence had to be different for each because they all have different priorities. Time out, taking a favorite toy, restricting computer or T.V. time usually worked. I just realized that with my youngest who is now five, I have never gotten past two. He is actually learning from his older siblings mistakes. I also believe that he is really afraid of what will happen if I get to three. He really loves to play with his toy wrestling men and I think he knows that will be the first thing to get taken away.

I work very hard to keep my children in line. But I also believe that I am very lucky. There are many parents who also work hard with their children, set a good example, give them a loving and nurturing home and still the child does not behave. Sometimes, a parent must look outside of the home for help with their child. The only time a parent fails at being a good parent is when they give up and just let their child run wild.

No one ever said that being a parent was easy or that your child was going to be perfect. It is a hard job but it is definitely worth it. Sometimes, they just wear me down. It is one thing after another. It gets to the point that I am ready to just give in and let them do whatever they want as long as they just leave me alone for one minute. Then I remember that I have the power and all I have to say is, "Just wait until your Dad gets home." That usually takes care of everything for the rest of the day.

Learn more about this author, Amy Denney.
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