As much as we want to keep our child in a danger-free zone, we can't possibly lock them away forever. There are times when they have to face their battle alone and become responsible individuals soon. Now, I'm not even sure what kind of life awaits my kids the moment they step out to that cruel world, but I'm trying my best mold them with a heart of a fighter.
I have my reason as a father to be tough. But my wife also has a reason to be
soft and loving. She believes in tender love and care. She grew up with the love of a doting mother. In my case, I learned to stand on my own at an early age. These conflicting views are causing a rift in our relationship as a couple and parents as well.
So how do we resolve the issue? We agreed on a compromise. At first, it was hard to mesh with two
parenting styles. I thought it was impossible, but when my wife told me that it's all for the welfare of the kids, we struggled to be fair but also firm with our rules.
For the first two or three offenses, my wife is in control. She decides what to do with the kids. But on the fourth, they will have to face daddy's disciplinary action with no questions asked. We agreed that the kids should be responsible for their own belongings and choices, so we let them be. We only give them allowance enough for a week. If there's something they want, we both have to say yes before they get it. Even with different styles, what matters is to be always fair and consistent.
