Welcome to the Parents Rule! Website
- Parenting advice that is based on common sense
- Parenting wisdom from the trenches
- Parenting information that is timely and valuable
Pat’s homespun parenting advice and wisdom come from her years as a mom, a stepmom, and a “Mema.” It is supplemented by the knowledge gained from various experts who have been guests on Parents Rule!
Remember, parents, you are raising the next generation of adults–not children! Pat does not refer to herself as a “parenting expert” because she doesn’t believe in the phrase. There are many people who understand psychology, behavior, and family dynamics and they have many wonderful ideas for parents. But when the rubber meets the road, no one theory or plan fits all. Each family dynamic is as unique as the individuals that make up that family. Cookie cutters do not work for everyone.
Therefore, Pat presents many different ideas, views, and theories. Choose what works best you and your situation. Use your instincts and your inherent knowledge of you own family. Being a parent is fun and challenging, but definitely worth it!
They come through you but are not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backwards nor tarries with yesterday.”
–from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
