There remain various teaching methods one can implement in the upbringing of their child. My upbringing, up until the age of roughly thirteen, was characterized by rules, and lots of them. Being one of the two daughters to a father who served as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force, that kind of goes without saying.
My father was an incredibly disciplined and structured individual. He carried the values instilled into him from the military and incorporated them in the raising of my sister and myself. While my mother could be stern, there was far more leeway with her. Never the less, both my mother and father maintained high expectations and if you grew up with strict parents like mine, you can relate.
1. Good grades are expected, not rewarded
While some of your friends may receive money, presents, etc. under the condition that their report cards reflect A's and B's, you are given a pat on the back and told to keep up the good work. Next time let's try for as few B's as possible though, alright?
2. There must be adult supervision everywhere you go
Hanging with a neighbor down the street? A parent better be there. Going to a friend's house for a sleep over? I'd like to speak to a parent first, please.
3. Hell hath no fury like a parent that was just hung up on
You were getting your ear chewed off by either your mom or dad over the phone, so in a moment of senseless frustration, you hung up on them. You immediately regret that decision and even more so when they immediately call you back and you have to mentally prepare yourself for the storm that is headed your way.
4. Nothing was ever handed to you
In need of some money? Cool, your parents have a car that could use a washing and a bathroom that could use some cleaning. If you want something, you're going to have to put in some effort to make that happen. You didn't think they were just going to hand over their hard earned money to you, did you?
5. You understand communication without words
Sometimes your mom or dad don't have to utter a single word to you in order for you to understand you have done something to upset them. All it takes is a simple glance or quick raise of the eyebrow and you straighten yourself up and stop doing whatever is it that upset them in the first place.
6. You always wait until a good time to ask them for a favor
They don't break easily, so if you want something they normally would be opposed to, you have to wait to get them in a good move, then you make your move.
7. Your sibling is your best friend....
You two (or three, four, five, etc.) have a profound friendship because of the mutual understanding you share regarding the whole strict parent thingy.
8. .....And you guys are in this together
It doesn't matter how upset your sibling(s) may make you at times, you NEVER rat them out. When my sister came home with a tattoo at fourteen and pissed me off on many occasions to the point that I wanted to tell on her, I couldn't bring myself to do it. You guys are in this together and must join forces if you wish to survive.
9. Despite everything, you are grateful for the values your mom and dad have instilled in you
Sure at times it felt like you were in some sort of boot camp, but ultimately, your parents instilled values, such as responsibility, leadership and a strong work ethic, that have benefitted you in the long run.
