"Do your chores."
"Do your homework."
"You can't "hang out" with your friends."

Her mother revealed how her kid got so sassy:

"I've tried to please Suzy (not her real name) ever since she was a baby." "I've given her everything she ever wanted." "Maybe I shouldn't have done so much for her."

Bingo! Her mom hit the nail on the head. It's too bad she didn't realize it when her daughter was much younger. Now she had a tyrant on her hands.

I believe many parents know the right thing to do but can't quite bring themselves to be firm. Part of them believes if they don't ruffle any feathers their children will be wonderful and happy. The other part knows from their kid's selfish behavior that it isn't working.

If you want to raise a self-centered kid who will grow up to be a self-centered adult just:

Give your child everything
Expect nothing
Accept disrespect
Let your child tell you what to do
Forget you are the parent

Being firm takes backbone. Parents with backbone know that life isn't always easy. They prepare their children for life. They are both kind and firm because they:

Think before they speak
Say "No" and mean it
Act consistent and follow through

If you've been too kind and not firm, you can change. Expect your child to do everything possible to get you to be a doormat again. You'll need to suck in your breath and put up with even more hollering and disrespect. Be consistent and don't get caught up in your child's tantrums. It's the best way to change your worst parenting strategy ever into one that builds character.
About the Author

Jean Tracy, MSS, "Granny Jean," invites you to subscribe to her FREE parenting newsletter, "Tips and Tools for Character Builders."
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