I have often doubted my parenting abilities and I was once again reminded of this yesterday. The crisp, frosty morning’s temperature was well in to the teens and I was doing my best to keep a cold from completely immobilizing me. My dog, Baxter, came up to me at the time of our daily scheduled outing and gave me a long, anticipatory stare.
“Not today, Baxter – I am not feeling that great and its way too cold outside.”
Seemingly, Baxter understands the message, walks down the hall and jumps on the bed. Ten minutes later, Baxter reappears – and gives me a stronger message by nudging my arm.
Taking a firm stand, I repeated again, “Baxter, buddy, I can’t go outside today – I’m really not up for it.” Again, as if he understands the message, he makes his way down the hall and curls up on the carpet.
Relentless – Baxter once again reappears at my side. This time, he dances a jig of joy – every part moving – not to be denied. “Okay, Baxter, Let’s Go!” Caving in, I retrieve the leash, bundle up and we went for our walk.
From my observations, both personally and professionally, a good parent needs to take a firm stand and keep it. In doing so, it provides the much needed structure and guidance needed for a child’s development. Giving into the child’s demands results in their having control – they end up being in charge. And if a parent’s not careful, the child trains you – just like Baxter has trained me.
“Okay, Baxter, Let’s Go!”
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