Growing Kids God's Way: Consequences and Punishment

This week we will discuss maybe a controversial topic: consequences and punishment.  Remember this key principle: Punishment serves a moral purpose.  It communicates to children the value of good and evil by the weight of the punishment ascribed to the wrongful act.

Punishment is used more in the early years and natural/logical consequences are used more in the later years.  Whatever you use, pain is potential correction for foolishness.    It could be a skinned knee after falling off a bike or taking away privileges.

We want our children to take ownership of their decisions and also help them learn to make wise decisions.  Children need to learn the consequences of their choices.  It will be no different when they get out into the world.

Here are some ideas:
*Labor is a great consequence (extra chores, hard work, etc.)
*For lying some have used "sassy sauce" like vinegar or hot sauce.
*Chastisement is a common form of correction and should only be used up until 5 years of age.  (You can read more about that in the Growing Kids God's Way book)

Whatever method of punishment and consequences that you use, be consistent.  Your child will respond to parents who take the time to raise them with dignity.  Teach your child what your expectations are and follow through.  Loving your child enough to train them is the greatest gift you can give them.

Thanks for listening!

Next time: Repentance, Forgiveness and Restoration