7 Things to Never Do for Your Kid
As a parent, it's your natural instinct to protect your child. It's part of the animal makeup we're all born with; like a mama bear, you'll do anything to keep your cub safe. Sounds great, but your kid is trying to survive a different type of wild—one filled with science projects, playground wars, and hopefully college down the road. A little breathing room can go a long way in raising a strong, independent child, but many well-intentioned parenting mistakes get in the way. Here are seven things you shouldn't do for your kid:
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Choose her friends
When you have a toddler, she hangs out with your friends' kids as you have a mommy gab session. Oh, those simpler times! After age 5, your child will naturally start gravitating toward certain children, for better or worse.
Next: What to Do Instead
Make excuses
"Hi, Teacher. I'm sorry Jimmy didn't finish his report on time. He's been busy with football." Sound familiar? Shielding children from the negative consequences of their actions is one of the most common parenting mistakes. Once in a while (when it's truly necessary) is okay, but If you engage in this too often, you may end up with a kid who doesn't understand cause and effect.
Next: What to Do Instead
Get involved in employment
There is nothing less professional than someone's mom stepping in on the job. Whether you have a teen with her first job or a 20-something slogging it out in the corporate world, your kid's employment isn't in your realm of responsibility.
Next: What to Do Instead
Make her decisions, big and small
Hey, you just want the best for your shining star, right? So it only makes sense that you would nudge him in the directions you want him to take. Unfortunately, taking over all decision-making for your child raises a self-conscious and indecisive adult.
Next: What to Do Instead
Resolve her conflicts
When your little one's at the playground, it's only natural that you want to step in when an altercation occurs. But constantly swooping in to save the day robs your kid of conflict-solving experiences that teach her to deal with other people, whether she's a toddler or a teen.
Next: What to Do Instead
Finish her projects
Are you that mom who, in the 11th hour, is at the craft store buying poster board and markers for a report on volcanoes? Your child's teacher assigned her that project to see what she's capable of ... not you. Taking over once means you'll be expected to do it again and again and again.
Next: What to Do Instead
Let her win...every time
It's nearing the end of Candy Land and you're in the lead. Rigging the deck could mean your child gets the elusive Queen Frostine and the win, but it's not the best way to teach your child to be a graceful loser.
Next: What to Do Instead
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