Uncategorized

by George Lehtinen This will take you back! Remember when we were just plain old kids growing up, and what we usually did for entertainment? I certainly do, and those were magical times where we spent a vast majority of our days playing outside unsupervised until the "streetlight rule" came on. Remember riding our bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, or just walking to our friend's house? I can remember the banana seats, the made-up ramps, playing street baseball, football, or kickball, while some neighbors were seen briefly observing the kids from the front window. They could be seen periodically because the [...]

by GW Lehtinen If the grounding is rather lengthy, there is a chance that the young child will breed resentment toward the parent.  It might also limit their growth in society, which can be unhealthy.  In today's world, modern perspectives say that at times, instead of focusing on the punishment, parents or authority figures should focus on active teaching and sensible consequences.  There has been a shift in the last few decades in styles of discipline.  Traditionally, it was simply to restrict freedom, but grounding, if done frequently, might isolate children and could have them thinking about the parent instead [...]

by GW Lehtinen I distinctly remember two things in my earlier life that left a strong impression on me.  When I was in my first year in college and away from my parents, I was captivated by the freedom, doing what I pleased whenever I chose.  The results from being swept away by having no parents telling me what to do surfaced.  I was on academic probation and getting in trouble with the coaching staff because of my laziness and immaturity.  I certainly deserved it, I knew I royally screwed up, and I had to pay the price.  I did [...]

by GW Lehtinen Pros: Tough love teaches accountability. It makes a person or persons face the consequences of their choices rather than hiding from reality. It builds resilience. Facing the fire of obstacles and adversity can help someone build a stronger sense of self and maturity. Cons: Tough love can damage relationships. Ultimatums, or not being supportive, can create distrust between people. When it is not applied correctly, the “tough” overshadows the “love” and can unfortunately be seen as bullying, or even verbal abuse. My personal experience has seen both good and bad during my youth. Like a lot of people, I [...]