25 rules for mothers of daughters

I agree with these bits of advice however, I believe it is vital to also offer strong rebuke guided by solid moral principles. I would not allow any of my daughters to just do whatever they want, listen to whatever music they want, date whomever they want, read whatever they want. There has to be some structure based upon moral principles.

But the overwhelming message of this article is unconditional love and that is evident in encouraging them in what they do AND protecting them from danger.

As the father of 5 daughters, I agree with CT98.

In addition.. I believe in unconditional love - and conditional tolerance. Who will teach these young ladies about Work? Responsibility? Critical Thought? I agree with these esteem-building activities, but to what end are they implemented? A filtered outlook on life has done little to prepare our children for the realities they face on a daily basis. I don't suggest that the author is unaware of these questions, just negligent in not grounding her advice with an injection of reality. A vast majority of children understand reality to be what they want it to be, not what it actually is (the very definition of reality). I believe children should associate candy with a toothbrush. Experiencing life's sweetness, while calmly facing life's struggles.

Adversity is no greater for us than it was for our parents; No greater for our children than ourselves. The difference is that we have set our tools adrift. Responsibility, critical thought, sacrifice, humility, faith, respect, agency, freedom. None of these are maintained with self-esteem alone. For the sake of our children, fathers AND mothers MUST do the harder thing.

Very nice, although it is obvious that she is the mother of small children. Things will be more complicated as they grow older and actually have their own opinions and ideas. It's lots easier to say how tolerant you will be of those opinions when they are years in the future! I do not agree with CT98's "strong rebuke"--you get nowhere with strong rebuke (immediate compliance, but simmering resentment and defiance--even if they actually agree with you!). Far better to lead by example, show love and concern, and be clear about consequences. I cannot choose what music will speak to my children, or who they choose to fall in love with--and I shouldn't!! But I can teach correct principles and love and encourage and let them make--and live with--their own choices.

I agree with all of the above--especially KinCO--it's easy to say how you will act when children under 11 love you always and agree with you---when the teen years hit--it is much more complicated and even the young adult age can be trying at times but it is important to support your children in good causes!!