100pedals Talk

Every parent dealing with the choices and behaviors of child with an addiction struggles with developing and honoring boundaries.  In reality, most parents struggle with clearly defined boundaries and consequences, in general.  Teaching our children and ourselves this lesson is a critical life skill that the entire family benefits from.  The process for creating healthy boundaries involves three key steps. First, in a moment of rational thought clearly define your rules and expectations for the acceptable behaviors of others. Second, take time to share these expectations and outcomes with those involved. Finally, make and honor your commitment to follow-through on the consequences you have identified and articulated. Every parent has the authority and the responsibility to teach their children, whether they are using or not, that there are expectations and rules associated with their behaviors and their choices.  Part of teaching these responsibilities requires parents to be willing to assign outcomes for fai