Children are precious. They were brought into this world through no desire of their own. Many are abused, used as pawns, neglected, denied, and betrayed. Such is not fair.
Dr. R. F. Hertz, a British psychologist, engaged in a research project of wide interest. He has asked almost 100,000 children between 8 and 14, from all walks of life, in 24 countries, to list 10 rules of behavior for parents. Here is the list:
- Do not quarrel in front of children.
- Treat children with equal affection.
- Never lie to a child.
- Develop tolerance between parents.
- Maintain comradeship between parents and children.
- Treat your children’s friends as welcome visitors in the house.
- Always answer children’s questions.
- Do not blame or punish children in the presence of their friends.
- Concentrate on your child’s good points. Do not overemphasize his failings.
- Be constant in affection and mood.
This list should cause parents to stop, look, and listen. Read it again carefully, thoughtfully, and with self-inspection and evaluation. How are children treated in your home? They deserve the best.
God gives this advice: “Do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4).
—Carroll Sites
