Why good parents aren’t always popular parents.

Does this ring true for you?

Good parents are usually not popular with their children and sometimes other parents or friends and family. It doesn’t bother some parents but for others, staying popular is important and they won’t want to be at the end of the someone’s wrath for doing something they think is right. Here are some reasons why good parents aren’t always popular.
  • Don’t give your kids too much freedom- Your 9-year kid is hassling you because they want to walk home alone but you are having none of it. Of course, your nipper is disgusted that you won’t let them and is demanding that you re-think. Sure, everyone is walking home in their class alone, according to your child, but you are not swayed and stick to your guns. It doesn’t feel right to you, not yet and you are not going to listen to your kids moaning about it!
  • You keep tabs on their devices- No kid wants their parents checking their technology devices though it is vitally important that you should. The kids will reluctantly hand them over while moaning about it being an invasion of privacy. That it may well be, but it is for their own sake. 
  • You ask them questions and follow up- You spend time asking your kids about their day and what they did as you want to be a part of their life even when they are away from you. They may just say “fine” and move on but you keep at it and don’t shy away from questions that will cause rows or disputes, as you want honesty. 
  • You don’t let them have loads of sweets- This may upset your parents or parents in laws when they have the kids that you have created strict rules on what your child can eat. The kids won’t be happy but you are thinking of their future health and the rise of obesity and diabetes type 2 in the country is appalling. 
  • You don’t allow the kids to be cheeky or misbehave- You want your kids to be mindful and not misbehave, especially to get things that they want so you will come down hard on the kids once they are bold. They will not thank you for this now and you won’t be popular but it is the right thing to do. 
  • You don’t allow the kids to wear unsuitable clothes- You know the drill your teenager has suddenly found their own personal style and it is questionable to say the least. You refuse to back down and will not allow your teenager outside the door until they are dress appropriately. Yes, this will anger kids, greatly. 
  • No child of yours will be out after dark- You don’t care if all the neighbours kids are out but you are not having you kids out on the streets till all hours. Though everyone thinks you odd, you choose to know where your kids are and like them to be safe. 
You may not be popular but at least your kids will thank you in the future. 
Written by Emma Hayes, staff writer for Family Friendly HQ

Emma Hayes

Emma Hayes is a busy mum to two girls aged 17 and 11 and is married to her childhood sweetheart.

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