That often requires you to be the “bad guy” who has to make the tough, unpopular decisions that are in your child’s best interest.
“No, you can’t go out with your friends to the movies on a school night”
“No, we can’t have pizza for dinner three nights in a row.”
“No, you can keep that BB gun your Uncle Wilt gave you for your birthday.”
Loosen Up Once in a While
But being a mom or dad shouldn’t just mean that you have to say “no” all the time. You also want to show your kids your lighter, fun side every once in a while. And one of the best times to do that is during parties, special occasions, or while on summer vacation.
You can surprise your kids and make them think of you as something more than just the family disciplinarian by joining in on the fun in such things as bounce houses or giant slides.
Show Your Kid Side
You were a kid once. Think about how much fun it was to share fun times with your parents, especially when it involved doing something exciting together, such as riding a roller coaster or going through a haunted house.
These type of extra-ordinary experiences that you share with your kids are what they are going to remember, more than just the everyday parenting that you are required to do as part of your job description.
Playtime Is Family Time
The more you can show your children your fun, adventurous side, the more they will love and respect you, even when you have to be firm and in control.
Plus, family playtime is a great time to build deeper bonds with your kids by sharing in the loving, family fun together.
