Written by Daniel Uduh

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A child is a gift. Not just like any other gift, but a gift from God. While it takes a long period of time to have a child in some cases, it takes a very short time to have one in some other cases. Whichever way it happens, as soon as a child arrives into a family through birth, plans should be put in place to tackle any abnormal behavior. This step is important because a child is born with a clear state of mind, quick to learning, and changes. They just keep learning, starting from the parents to anything around them, until they assume their own lifestyle. Now, learning is not bad. Learning is a way of life. Learning becomes bad when done in the wrong direction. Having a badly behaved child is not the dream of any parent on earth. So, what should we do, when we know children are bound to learn foolish things? What should we do, when we know we spoil the child if we spare the rod? This is what we should do, preferably at the early stage of the child.

1. Lead a good example

Parents are the first teacher of every existing child. To get it right, parents have to show a good example even before they act. Any exhibition of a negative attitude passes a wrong message to the child. As the child will think it is the right thing to do. A father who tells the child to inform a visitor that he is not around when he actually is is teaching the child to lie.

2. Make your child your friend

Getting much closer to your child is another way of building confidence in him. When this is done, he sees you as a father and a friend and will confide in you. The child will tell you just anything. This gives you the chance to correct and direct him appropriately.

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3. Know his friends

Knowing his friends can help the child. When you know his friends, you can tell if they are good or bad for him. You also stand a chance of transferring good morals in his friends.

4. Provide his needs

Make sure you get him his needs without delay. So he knows he has no reason to steal or take from his friends or mates. Children get negatively influenced or even initiated through this means.

5. Spell out penalties for his offense

If while trying to be a good parent and your child goes to misbehave or disobey your orders, you can penalize him immediately. There are several ways a child can be penalized. It’s left for you to choose the way that suits you.

6. Pray for your child

Prayer, they say changes things. As a parent, your child needs your blessings always. It’s essential you do this. Pray for and with him in the private and in the open.

If after doing all these and the child still chose to be wayward, you will be sure you did your part as a good parent.

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