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What should you do when you and your spouse have different parenting styles, resulting in different rules and unfair treatment of your children? What happens when your spouse has an abundance of patience and tolerance for their kids, but has zero tolerance for your child?
We know that children thrive in an environment of consistency, but sometimes this is not the case.
Firstly, if you and your spouse simply cannot get on the same page regarding discipline, then you should each discipline your own kids and not your stepchildren.
The key is to love them unconditionally while maintaining a standard in your home. Soon you’ll see a difference in the kids – both yours and your stepchildren.
So, if you feel that your spouse compromises their parenting standards, it doesn’t mean that you have to weaken your own. Otherwise, your biological kids are left with no one to parent them in a fair and balanced manner.
Reassure your children of your love and commitment to them. Explain your reasons behind your rules and the consequences you set. If they understand the purpose of the boundaries and feel that you are being reasonable, they are more likely to comply.
Hang on and do what’s right by your kids, especially in the eyes of the Lord and He will reward you.
And never belittle your spouse in front of your children regarding their different parenting style. You don’t want the kids to lose respect for them on account of what you say.
Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”
For more tips on how to successfully blend your stepfamily, visit www.nouveaulifecoaching.com.