#9 NIP IT IN THE BUD

Have you ever heard the saying ..You better "nip it in the bud"?

Well being a gardener and having sons who are in tree service this saying holds alot of meaning for me .

Your child bites someone. He swears in a conversation with you. She talks back. They don't come when they are called. You get the idea.....behavior that is everything but what you want to see or deal with!

NIP IT IN THE BUD... When a sapling (a baby tree) sprouts a bud (the beginning of a branch) it can literally be broken off with barely a touch of your finger.
Wait a few weeks and the same bud will have grown to the point that to get rid of it you will tear the bark of the tree when you rip it off....wait even longer and the branch will need a saw of some type to get rid of it.

I'm sure you are getting the picture.

When you see the "bud" of behavior that is not acceptable, Nip it..deal with it immediately..it will most likely NOT go away on its own...it is not a phase ...bad behavior will lead to something worse if not dealt with .
You need to focus in when parenting...there are no days off...sorry... but I can say to you the more you deal with them when they are young the easier it will be later on.

Be the parent. If there are numerous behaviors that have sprouted pick the worst and begin there. Mean business. The world and society that we live in don't usually work in our favor. You may feel alone in your decision...dont worry if you dont match up to "Jared's mom who lets him do anything!" Jared's mom will not have to bail your son out of jail or care for your daughters baby. Its your call. Again if you're not sure what is right or wrong ASK Go to someone you feel you can trust and who has been a role model.

Consistency is of absolute importance. Please dont send mixed messages because that is exactly what lack of consistency does.

Deep breath. Parenting is not for cowards. You are on a very important mission to rear a child who will add to this world in a positive way.

YOU CAN DO IT
Blessings M

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