They're Acting Out...

Our Moms Council answers the question, but we want to hear from you! What do you think of this week's topic? Lets get some discussion started in the comments. Sound off, Cartersville parents!

How should parents react in public places when another parent or adult seems to need help dealing with a child?

I make it a general rule to mind my own business when it comes to parenting, as I would expect others to do for me. The exceptions to this are if a caregiver is soliciting my help or if I see a child in danger. In those instances I would step in without hesitation.

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It was once said it takes a village to raise a child. Most of the time a child will listen to a complete stranger before they will a parent. Don’t overstep your bounds. I prefer to tell the child in passing. You need to listen to your mom. Reassure the overwhelmed parent that they are not negatively judged. Say something reinforcing to the parent. I will even praise a well-behaved child in public. In my case, I have four kids I know how it is. The advise I have for parents who tend to struggle with there kids in public is to not give into bad behavior by reinforcing it with a prize. Always stick to your threats.

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In my opinion, people should continue to behave like years ago – if you see someone in need, stop and help them, whether it be changing a car tire or holding a mom’s diaper bag while they attend to their child. But in today’s society, most people are hesitant to help because of the fear of litigation and overstepping of boundaries.  Privacy has become a huge aspect of our lives and the mindset of keeping yourself out of other people’s business is prevalent. 

I do think parents should be cautious of helping other parents with their children.  Families can be very protective of the way they want to live their lives and any interference of this is frowned upon. If help is directly requested from the other parents, by all means do so, in any way possible. However, if another parent’s child is disrespecting you, I think you have a clear path to make sure that child’s attitude and demeanor is dealt with appropriately.    

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