Parenting - a heart thing

Parenting is a heart/relational thing, we have to address the heart as NCBP people say below - we need to take opportunities to minister to our kids hearts:-

From this week's Family Builders eNewsletter

Parenting Tip - Don't Miss Opportunities
NOTE: This parenting tip is from Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller of the National Center for Biblical Parenting and used with permission. Free Email Parenting Tips are available from this organization.

Every day parents have opportunities to touch the hearts of their children. Sometimes it's through a story or a hug, or an apology, but often it's through the daily correction that children need. Addressing the heart is important. Unfortunately some parents respond to their children in ways that miss the heart. One of the mistakes parents make is that they excuse their children. We've all heard them.
He'll grow out of it.
She's so cute.
At least she's doing what I asked.
He's tired. He's just going through a stage.
She's better than other kids her age.
That's the way kids are.
She's a teenager.
He's a two-year-old.
He's a boy.
She could be a lot worse.
Each of these is an excuse for not disciplining and often represents a missed opportunity to teach or direct a child on a deeper level. Remember, we aren't just trying to help children change on the outside to develop nice, neat behavior. We're trying to help them change their hearts.
Each of these statements have truths behind them. Because of these facts, we may choose to discipline a little differently, postpone a consequence, or redirect children. There's nothing wrong with that, but we must be careful not to ignore heart issues in the process. Look for ways to challenge your children on a heart level this week. You'll be surprised at how many opportunities are out there.