As a loving parent raising your child in a devoted Christian household, it can be said that you run a “tight ship”. Nothing wrong with that! Children who grow up in structured homes are found to thrive sustainably throughout adolescence.

Setting standards and holding your daughter accountable are necessary–but does she know why rules are enforced? And no, “because I said so” doesn’t really clue her into your decision-making process. In fact, this consistent authoritarian-style parenting can make home feel like a toxic battle zone between parent and child.

When we take time to explain the “why behind the what”, our kids learn how and why rules and family decisions are made. As the parent, it’s up to you to direct your family in “the way they should go”, but whenever possible, your girl should understand the reasoning behind the standards to which she is held!