Many years ago, I overheard this conversation from a father trying to communicate with his four-year-old son. I might add, the father only had four levels of communication-- loud, louder, loudest, and off the chart. A former Marine drill sergeant, even when he said, "Good morning!" you thought you needed to snap your heels together and salute. Here's the transaction.
"Marvin, don't take that glass!" A few seconds later and louder, "Marvin, give me that glass!!" Another few seconds and even louder, "Marvin, don't drop that glass!!!" And then the clincher and off the chart, "Marvin, don't step in that glass!!!!"
Parents don't have a chance, do they? Not much at least. It's either too much or too little; too soon or too late; too strict or too lenient.
Parenting is an incredibly tough job and nobody is an expert, including the experts. Having raised three kids, and having worked with families for many years, I have a deep sensitivity to parents.
One of the encouraging signs today, is the willingness of parents to seek professional help with their children and adolescents. As a result, many problems are solved earlier rather later before they excalate to something bigger.
Parents, help is available, don't wait till Marvin steps in the glass.
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