One year, when I taught a class of four and five-year olds, two of the young girls kept breaking loose from class and running and hiding throughout the church. They also kept distracting the class with their nearly constant conversation. I tried everything within my power to discipline them and get them to behave. Every time they did this, the rest of the children would laugh like it was a big joke. Finally, not knowing what else to do, I asked the girls’ parents if they could spare a moment when they picked up their daughters after class.
The parents of the first girl seemed confused about their daughter’s behavior. However, when the mother of the second girl arrived, the first girl’s father said, “Aha! Partners in Crime! Now this is beginning to make sense.”
I explained what was going on to the parents, and they assured me they would take care of the problem. They must have done so because I didn’t have any more incidents with the girls. I was relieved when I found out the parents cared enough to deal with the discipline problem.
One girl moved away, but I occasionally see the other one around town. She has grown into a responsible young woman and I applaud her parents for the way they raised her!
Discipline is not a fun task, but it is necessary. Scripture tells us, “Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.” (Proverbs 22:15)
I’m thankful these girls are no longer “Partners-in-Crime.”
Robin's Creative Expressions 