This morning as I was getting Emily ready for school, she did not want to tuck her shirt in (which is dress code for her school). I told her she has to tuck her shirt in. She argued that some of the other kids in her class do not tuck their shirts in. Now I know this seems to be a minor issue, although in the later grades they can get written up for not tucking their shirts in, but it was still a teachable moment. After thinking a moment I told her “It is better to Follow the Rules than The Crowd”. Though some may disregard a simple rule because they think it is silly, or aggrivating , it is a purposed rule for a reason.
It has not been long now since the headmaster at our school had to send out an email to all the parents concerning car pool issues. Some of the parents were not only disregarding the guidelines, but telling the teachers “what for” in the process of being corrected. I thought to myself what a shame. These parents are showing their children that if they think a rule is stupid, they can totally disregard the authority that is in place. They were actually disregarding the authority that they have told their children to obey, and placed as their care. Many parents do not see, or recognize, the amount they are teaching their children through example as opposed to words. But, let me ask you this… At a young age parents are children’s greatest heroes, who they want to be when they grow up. If my child does not want to tuck in her shirt because her other class mates do not, then how much more will she disregard the rules that have been set up to protect her when I disregard rules and authority placed over me?
Let us not forget our very important influence as parents, and Christians. Even in small things, at especially the young ages, we must see the teachable moments that will spare them from harder lessons later.
I totally agree with you, and I think it is sad the example some parents are to their children. “Do as I say, not as I do” seems to be the motto of some parents. Good for you that you recognize the importance of your role in your daughter’s life!
I definitely agree with you on that. It is imperative that we as parents set the example of being obedient. That is what I tell my kids when they question me on something. I let them know just like you have to obey that Mommy and Daddy have to obey as well. And they say OH!!!
And, it is sad when you do see other parents not doing what they are teaching their children to do.
Hey Stephanie,
I am in total agreement, obviously. I think that one thing parents don’t get is It is not about them not doing what they are teaching their kids, it is that they are teaching their kids by what they are doing.
That is the tragedy.