There is disturbing news of parents physically abusing and even killing their children. Without love, patience, and parenting skills, children become hapless victims. Paul writes to fathers (including mothers) not to provoke, exasperate, embitter, or crush their spirits. (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21)
Lack of marital harmony: When the husband and wife argue and fight often before children, they dishearten them.
Child-centered home: Excessive love for children that all decisions are by children or need their approval. A single child gains all the attention of both parents; hence discipline and direction from parents are missing.
Discipline in anger: The mother or father has the habit of disciplining or punishing the child in anger.
Nagging: It is complaining about a behavior several times.
Inconsistent in discipline: Parents should communicate what is acceptable words, attitudes, and behavior. When these acceptable standards are compromised they should prescribe punishment. Inconsistency means to ignore the fault at times and excessively punish at other times. Surely such inconsistencies confuse a child.
Not admitting when wrong: As imperfect humans, parents could be wrong. Sometimes punish children without knowing the real situation. Parents should be humble enough to ask for forgiveness from their children.
Not encouraging: All parents should develop the skills to affirm children when they do right and encourage them to continue to do what is excellent. Instead, few parents even discourage children from using their talents and gifts.
Mocking before others: Children are sensitive, especially teenagers. Mocking or ridiculing children before others: peers, friends, relatives, and strangers smashes their spirit.
Failing to keep promises: When parents make promises, they should be sure that they have the capacity and desire to fulfill them. Promises are given as incentives for children to achieve more or excel. When they are not rewarded for their achievements they are disillusioned.
Unrealistic expectations: All children are not going to be scientists, writers, artists, administrators, sports personalities…etc. They have certain potentials and also limitations. Unrealistic expectations make them depressed. Many teens have committed suicide because their parent was obsessed with demanding their achievements.
Do I create a nurturing environment for my children?