Parent Contracts: A Guide to Setting Expectations With Your Children
As parents, it`s our job to set expectations and boundaries for our children. While it`s important to communicate these verbally, putting them in writing can provide a helpful reference point for both parents and children. This is where parent contracts come in.
A parent contract is a written agreement between parents and children that outlines expectations, consequences, and rewards. These contracts can cover a range of topics, from behavior to chores to academic performance. Here`s how to create a parent contract that works for your family.
1. Choose Your Topics
The first step in creating a parent contract is to decide what topics you want to cover. Some common topics include:
– Behavior: What behaviors are expected and what are not tolerated? For example, no hitting or name-calling.
– Chores: What chores are expected and how often should they be done? Will there be rewards or consequences for completing or not completing them?
– Academic performance: What grades are expected? What is the plan if grades start to slip?
– Screen time: How much screen time is allowed? Are there restrictions on certain websites or apps?
– Communication: How will communication be handled when there`s an issue or conflict?
Choose the topics that are most important to your family.
2. Write it Down
Once you`ve decided on the topics you want to cover, it`s time to write them down. Use clear, concise language that is easy for your children to understand. Be specific about what is expected and what the consequences will be if expectations are not met.
For example, instead of saying, “Be respectful,” say, “No name-calling or hitting is allowed. If you do either of those things, there will be a consequence.”
3. Sign and Display
Once you`ve written the contract, have both you and your children sign it. This will make it official and ensure that everyone understands what is expected of them. Display the contract somewhere prominent, like on the fridge or a bulletin board.
4. Follow Through
Creating a parent contract is only effective if you follow through on the consequences and rewards outlined in it. If your child breaks a rule or doesn`t complete a chore, enforce the consequence that was agreed upon. Likewise, if your child meets or exceeds expectations, provide the reward that was agreed upon.
In conclusion, parent contracts can be an effective way to set expectations and boundaries with your children. By choosing the right topics, writing them down, signing and displaying the contract, and following through on consequences and rewards, you can create a contract that works for your family.