Not all children are alike. Not every child will understand rules and boundaries the same. For example, a 5 year old may clearly understand they are to wash their hands before eating a meal. They may do so without ever having to be reminded. Another child, who is 8 years old, may have to be reminded each time.
Some parents forget that each child matures in an individual way. Each child also comprehends in different ways. It’s important for parents to be in tune with their children on an individual basis and find what works.
If a young child has rotten teeth because they consistently forget to brush, it’s more the fault of the parent than the child. The parent has to be the guide and do what it takes for the child to learn what is best for their well-being. Responsibility is on the child to an extent, but age appropriate, and it’s up to the parents to see that the child is following through with the responsibility.
Parents are the guiding force in their child’s life. Whether the child remembers what they are told to do or not, the parent should be consistent with guiding them to do the right thing for their well-being. This takes patience and understanding. But, the time spent in actively guiding a child will be worth it in the end. Being a better guiding force at the very start of your child’s life will help them to develop into a more productive teen and then, an adult.
This article came to mind when I heard a story of a 6 year old child who never brushed their teeth until they were at a grandparent’s home. The grandparent asked the child when the last time was that they brushed their teeth. The child responded, ‘I brushed my teeth the last time I was at your house’. The child’s custodial parent simply didn’t care!
No matter the age of the child, parents are still the guiding force — to be guided with patience, love and understanding.