The structures in your home
The third pillar in prevailing as a parent is around the structures you have in your home. There are key systems you need to have in place in your home. Some of these are your family value system, your daily routines, your boundaries, and your reward systems.
Having clear family values gives clarity to both parents and children on what the family stands for. Do not assume your children know your values. Let your values are founded on the word of God and have your values clearly written out and if possible framed and hung in your home. Always create opportunities to discuss what these values are.
Secondly, having routines is quite helpful in relieving stress. Every family must have a routine that helps them prioritize, manage expectations and maximize their time. Routines help children develop a sense of responsibility and keep them focused. Get a schedule for your family and work hard to stick to it. Ensure you include activities that promote the values that you hold dear in your family schedules.
Thirdly, children need boundaries and discipline. Let your children know what your boundaries are and enforce such boundaries by applying consequences and disciplinary measures. Children will always try to push these boundaries, but you need to be firm and keep to your word always. Apply consequences when they misbehave and with time, they will align with the family’s systems.
Finally, you need to stay consistent. Without consistency, you might not be able to achieve much. Having people keep you accountable goes a long way in keeping you consistent. Your children or spouse could be your accountability partner.
