HOW TO RELATE WITH YOUR CHILD By Dr. B Williams

In psychology it has been established that a child's personality would have formed by the age of 5.  This gives insight into how to relate with a child. As he or she grows up, be a parent to the child between birth and age 12.  This is when the spankings et cetera can come in. Whatever you dont correct at this age will be a tall order to deal with later in the child's life. Correct their perceptions and orientations. Be physically available to inculcate VALUES into them. 

From age 13 to 19 you are to be a friend to them. Most parents want to do core parenting at this age range. If you did not do this earlier you may have to work extra harder during this age range. One significant factor that can help change the child at this age is the God factor. If they find God at this age or earlier they are likely to stick to Him forever. 

From age 20 and above the best you can be to a child is be a mentor. At this stage be an inspiration to him or her. Let your marriage inspire them.  Inspire them to do things rather than wanting to push your way through.  You can not be adopting spanking and slapping at this stage.  That is if you are not slapped back. Fact is you will not be slapping a 25 years if you did a good job.  

NEVER STOP PRAYING FOR YOUR CHILD HOWEVER OLD THEY GROW. Never stop committing them into Hod's hands. 

Never stop being a parent NO MATTER how old they grow.  But don't forget that childhood life is in phases and maximise every phase with the right approach. Your child is not just the body you see but a spirit with a soul. Parents have a role to play in where his/her spirit and soul would be.  

Copied with slight adaptations.