10 Commandments for Parents

1. I will appreciate my children for who they are, not for who I want them to be.
   
2. I will relate to each child as an individual, instead of as "the kid".
   
3. I will take good care of myself as a person, and not live my life through my children.
   
4. I will acknowledge each and every little acceptable behavior, not just the "biggies".
   
5. I will give my children as many "facts" as I am able, and trust them to weigh these facts and make responsible decisions.
   
6. I will not allow my children to use or abuse me, for I know this will damage them.
   
7. Knowing that my children are on a short-term loan to me, I will introduce them to every possible responsibility, so that they won't be too shocked at "independence".
   
8. I will let my children know that I love them unconditionally, whether I like their decisions or not.
   
9. I will allow my children to face the consequences of their own actions and not constantly protect them, as I know I will want to do so.
   
10. I will feel successful when I am no longer needed as a parent.
    

Please also read: A child's 10 commandments to parents!