May 26, 2016
They Learn What We Teach Them



Dear Dr. Laura:

It's important that we teach our teenage children the value of hard work, dependability, a good work ethic, punctuality, and how to budget (their money and their time).

My son plans on getting a part-time job when he turns 16.  We've already talked with him about spending only a portion of his earnings and putting the rest in a savings account.  We've also reminded him to clean up after himself so he "earns his keep."  Honestly, for a while, I was worried that my son would live in a pig sty when he lives on his own!  Now I know I won't have to worry.  He got tired of living in a "trashy" room (and I resisted the urge to clean up after him), so he's finally started to keep it nice.  We made sure to praise him for his efforts (especially since he took the initiative himself without our nagging him).  

They learn what we teach them, even if some of those lessons are hard-earned.  I'm grateful to have a husband who is my co-captain, and we present a united front to our son as we help him find his way..  Thank you for always reminding us that we're PARENTS (not friends) and our job is to prepare them for the world at large.

Layla





Posted by Staff at 10:59 AM