Christian Family Rules- The Importance of Family Rules
Christian Family RulesFamily rules are undervalued in our society but I strongly believe that even if it isn't a popular practice, as a Christian family rules are extremely useful.
Christian Family Rules
One of the best pieces of advice that I ever received about parenting is to let your child know your expectations right before you enter the door of the restaurant, church, field trip, etc.Kneel down on one knee and tell your little one something like: we have about an hour to spend here. You won't yell, you will touch other kids nicely, and when it's time to go, you won't whine. If you can't do all of these things, then (insert a consequence of your choice) and we will try again next time. I love you." Or you could say "Remember our family rules?" and then list them all off.
Letting your expectations be known
They say that kids have the attention span of their age. So a 2-year-old can pay attention for a maximum of 2 minutes, a 7-year-old for a maximum for 7 minutes, etc. So keep your explanations short and sweet.
Kids need boundaries and also... they are sometimes forgetful. Be consistent with vocalizing how you expect them to act. Speak softly, cool as a cucumber, with a loving tone.If you think the sentences I gave as an example above might be helpful... great!But remember, if your child was disobedient, when you mention a punishment and don't follow through... next time they will push further to see what you really mean by "don't yell" or "touch nicely".Children are walking around figuring out how the rules of life work. As a Christian Family, rules will really help you establish a firm foundation for your children.You can help your child by drawing a line and not erasing it once it's been crossed. Your child NEEDS that line. He needs to see authority, in fact... he craves it.
Family Night
I visited the home of a family who had their family rules on the fridge, and I was totally inspired! I asked about their rules, and they had written them together and gone through each of them during a family game night. She said that it was first work and then play. (Another great lesson to teach your children!)So, inspired by her, a few favorite parenting books, as well as some of my favorite Bible passages, I made a family rule sheet for our family! I thought you might find it useful as well, so I am providing it... free.
Don't just print it- believe it!
After you print these Christian Family Rules, go through each of the Scriptures listed as a family. Look at why each of them are important according to God's Word. It won't take very long.Then, have each member of your family sign the Christian Family Rules, and truly make it their own.
The Bible says...
Did you know that the Old Testament Book of Deuteronomy backs me up on this? It isn't just a good idea, it's God's idea."Write [God's Instructions] on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates." Deuteronomy 6:9
What do you think?
Do you have family rules? Where are they posted? What rules are the most important?