Homeschooling a Strong Willed Child

Now that I have experienced parenting from the birth of my children through grandparenting, I can say that for me, the physical exhaustion of raising four little ones was SO MUCH EASIER than the mental and emotional drain of parenting teen.

Add the strong will of a child.... and the physical, mental and emotional roller-coaster is intensified. My husband and I were blessed to have four out of four strong willed children (intensities varied, thank the Lord!)

Would you classify your child as a strong willed child? It is very likely that if you have one or more children you, have a strong willed child.

I would like to share Hal and Melanie Young's email on Homeschooling a Strong Willed Child. 

Many years ago, we found Dr. James Dobson’s book, The Strong-Willed Child. “Why are you reading that? Do you have any?” a friend asked. “HA!” we said. “Ours don’t seem to come any other way!” 

Every child is a challenge of his own. Some are the classic “strong-willed” children who are always testing the boundaries; others are quieter about it, but still stubborn. Many, though, are simply . . . well, children. The great adventure of parenthood is learning how to relate to each individual God sends to our family. 

Each of these kids is a gift from God (Psalm 127:3)—yes, even that kid—that was given specifically to you, to be raised in your family, even in your situation and circumstance. It’s hard when you feel like a failure as a parent and teacher, but God has a purpose in this. Don’t quit.

PRAY. A LOT. God gave you the challenging child, and He will give grace for you to be that parent. 

Love them like Jesus loves us all. God knows us inside and out, and He loves His children in spite of themselves. Your kids aren’t perfect, and that will try your patience and confidence, but they are still your children. Remember first and foremost, they’re a gift from God to you. So, work with that. 

Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help. Look for advisors—a more experienced parent, a homeschool mom who’s dealt with a particular issue, a pastor or teacher who can encourage you with Scriptural wisdom. There are so many support networks available, you should be able to find someone who understands and can point you to resources that will help.

Relationship is critical. Your children are not clones of you or your mate, or of anybody else. Always work on strengthening the relationship, even if it seems like an inconvenience at the time. It’s tough when a child is being difficult. Praise anything you can; listen a lot; show your love. We’ve got a podcast that talks about how to improve your relationship with your kids. You can listen to it here.

When you have a good relationship with your child, it helps you get to the root of why they are being so difficult right now. It’ll help you figure out if they’re rebelling against you or just struggling with the changes of puberty. You’ll be able to discern if you just need to be stricter or if, instead, you need to change up your curriculum to make school more enjoyable. 

Work on relationship. It takes a lot of time. It’s not easy. It’s the best way to parent a difficult child, though.

 Your friends,

Hal & Melanie

info@raisingrealmen.com 

Do you have any encouragement to add? How have you been blessed by raising a strong-willed child?

Michelle's Curriculum suggestion for those who want adventure- 

Grammar Galaxy

Enjoying the journey,

~Michelle~

  Michelle Osborn is the owner and founder of Yellow House Book Rental, specializing in providing homeschool curriculum for rent or purchase, as well as counseling and guidance for homeschool families. She is a wife of 32 years, a 22-year homeschool veteran, and mom of four amazing children and five adorable grandchildren. Three of her children are now entrepreneurs, running their own businesses and doing quite well. Michelle’s passions include serving by leading worship at her church and encouraging homeschool moms through one on one, social media and speaking engagements. She has found her niche in helping parents homeschooling their teens through the high school years and on to pursue their dreams

Yellow House Book Rental links to many different sources within our blogs. A link does not equal an endorsement. We cannot guarantee the content of each site (especially its ads).

Visit our sponsors! We receive a small commission when you purchase through these links. (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.) Thank you. The purchases do not cost you more but help support our business and ministry. We only promote those that we love and believe in!