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Parenting > Limit Setting

While wearing the "executive" hat of parenting, parents often find themselves having to set limits for a child to promote health and safety. Parents should be aware that parental limit setting is needed when a child cannot set limits for themselves. With healthy limit setting, children feel safe and can be more creative and communicative, and find a healthier environment to grow. In her book, Growing Up Again, author Jean Illsley Clarke discusses that without healthy limits children feel wary and insecure. They could become reckless and uncaring about their welfare.

But setting limits that are too strict can be unhealthy as well. If parents set limits are too restricting, children will over adapt and become passive, or demand attention with rebellious behavior.

When healthy limits are set for them, children learn gradually to set their own limits, to value themselves. Healthy limiting setting builds self esteem. This way children get stimulation and recognition in safe and healthy ways.

Setting healthy limits can be a challenge for many parents. One-on-one guidance is available. If you want to learn how to set healthy limits, please contact us (+).