2 of 13

Write now Article Tools

Can you imagine a child turning to alcohol or drugs from too much love, support, and attention? Quite the contrary. Children turn to alcohol and drugs from the lack of these things. Unfortunately, during the formative years of a child's life most parents are dealing with careers, materialistic competition with friends, financial insecurity, and their own issues.

Today over fifty-percent of teenagers drink alcohol, and a rising number are taking or selling their parent's prescription drugs. The question is why. The answer is simple. Too much time without adult supervision. If you think that a child over the age of twelve does not need parental guidance you are deluding yourself.

Today absentee parents are overwhelmed with guilt and to compensate they over indulge their children with material gifts. The time has come to stop and think. Why is it so important to have everything TV commercials deem essential? A child of twelve does not need a cell phone, the latest video game, or the newest electronic devise. To spoil a child out of guilt is not only detrimental to the child, but to you as the parent, and to society.

Parental control over TV is essential. It is unacceptable to allow a child to witness violence on TV, and to observe porn over the Internet? Wake-up parents. Be aware of your child's every move. It is not only unacceptable, it is in fact harmful to the mental development of youngsters. When a child watches too much violence they become desensitized to the reality and consequences of life. If your child thinks it is okay to settle disagreements with a gun, knife, or any type of weapon, you must take action immediately. Common sense tells us to monitor our youth. Don't just turn the channel, explain to your child that violence is bad and it is wrong to hurt people. If you are not capable of managing your child there are counselors available.

You may be saying to yourself why should I monitor my child when no one else does. The answer is; you are not responsible for everyone else. You are responsible for your own offspring. By giving them love and direction you will save them, and yourself, years of pain.

Let go of technology for a few hours everyday. When you get home turn off your cell phone, and computer. Hug, kiss, and laugh with your children. Take them to the park and play Frisbee or catch. If weather does not permit, stay indoors and play a game that does not require electronics. Sit down with your family and enjoy a meal together. Afterward, rather than turning on television, talk, and laugh with your loved ones. Children instinctively sense harmony, and respond positively.

At the appropriate hour tuck your children into bed, listen to their prayers, read a book, kiss them goodnight, and close the door.

Parents also need time with each other. When all is quiet, it is time to light a candle, put on a romantic CD and make love, not war. Love, laugh, talk, and enjoy the moment. Talking eliminates stress, laughter is food for the soul, and making love is God's gift to mankind. You will live longer, enjoy your children more, and appreciate the precious life that is yours to live.

Learn more about this author, Patricia Dexheimer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The importance of mutual respect between parents and children?
We want to hear your view. Write now!