Child’s Reaction
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spoken in this manner grate upon the ear, wear upon the nerves, cause
mental suffering, and create a state of mind that makes it impossible
to curb the temper of the child to whom such words are spoken. This
is often the reason why children speak disrespectfully to parents
To Ridicule and Taunting—They [parents] are not authorized to
fret and scold and ridicule. They should never taunt their children with
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perverse traits of character, which they themselves have transmitted to
them. This mode of discipline will never cure the evil. Parents, bring
the precepts of God’s Word to admonish and reprove your wayward
children. Show them a “Thus saith the Lord” for your requirements.
A reproof which comes as the word of God is far more effective than
one falling in harsh, angry tones from the lips of parents
To Impatience—Impatience in the parents excites impatience in
the children. Passion manifested by the parents creates passion in the
children and stirs up the evils of their nature.... Every time they lose
self-control and speak and act impatiently, they sin against God
To Alternate Scolding and Coaxing—I have frequently seen chil-
dren who were denied something that they wanted throw themselves
upon the floor in a pet, kicking and screaming, while the injudicious
mother alternately coaxed and scolded in the hope of restoring her
child to good nature. This treatment only fosters the child’s passion.
The next time it goes over the same ground with increased willfulness,
confident of gaining the day as before. Thus the rod is spared and the
child is spoiled.
The mother should not allow her child to gain an advantage over
her in a single instance. And, in order to maintain this authority, it is
not necessary to resort to harsh measures; a firm, steady hand and a
kindness which convinces the child of your love will accomplish the
purpose
To Lack of Firmness and Decision—Great harm is done by a
lack of firmness and decision. I have known parents to say, You cannot
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have this or that, and then relent, thinking they may be too strict, and
give the child the very thing they at first refused. A lifelong injury is
thus inflicted. It is an important law of the mind—one which should
12
Letter 47a, 1902
.
13
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 67, 68
.
14
Testimonies For The Church 1:398
.
15
Pacific Health Journal, April, 1890
.