Since the 1950s, the American family has shifted from being adult-centered to being child-centered.

In the past, children were expected to pay close attention to adults. However, today a majority of parents pay too much attention to their children rather than demanding the respect they deserve. Yet, unfortunately, there is a tremendous amount of parents today that barely commit any quality time with their little ones. Television and technological inventions are factors that consume much of children’s time; as a result, they have stymied the productiveness of young people, hindering them from completing more household chores or tasks on a daily basis.

Teaching children to become responsible individuals requires a special climate within the home and school. Responsibility, as the word implies, is the ability to respond.

Through common usage, the word also emphasizes making decisions that are appropriate and effective.

Standards and expectations vary in different situations. Therefore, as children receive feedback from others, they need to be educated on how to refine their understanding of the way others may think about things.

For the most part, children become responsible when their actions prove evident that they are taking into account their own goals, yet considering the needs of others.    

Children can demonstrate responsible behavior by following school rules, doing chores at home, finishing homework, taking care of their possessions, treating others with respect and kindness, and making healthy choices. Most parents and educators find creative ways to reward children for doing what is expected of them and what depicts being reliable and responsible. However, finding the right discipline technique for each child can be quite difficult. We all know that one method might work well for one child, but not as well for another.

Inevitably, to gain respect from young people, adults must first learn how to show respect. Children need to witness proper role modeling for being responsible and respectful. For instance, adults can demonstrate responsibility by paying their bills on time, tending appropriately to domestic obligations and ensuring family safety.

When assigning duties at home, remind your children that everyone has a job to do — and all jobs are important. Keep in mind your child’s age when assigning tasks, and demonstrate your expectations. Don’t forget to offer support, encourage teamwork and use written reminders as needed.

While teaching responsibility, one must realize, there is no better place to do so than at home.

Whether time-outs or a loss of TV privileges become favorable, parents must stay consistent and continuous in using positive reinforcement. Being consistent will lessen your children’s attempt to manipulate you or the circumstances.

Moreover, parents must work as a team.

Raising children can be what you make of it.

It should be a thrill to watch children learn a new trick or skill, to see them grow daily, to listen to them laugh as they play, to feel their sweet hands wrap around you, to hear them sing, or to hear them read for the first time.

Parenting can feel overwhelming at times, but it is definitely a priceless experience.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who serves as an English instructor for Daphne Middle School and Faulkner State Community College.

Rogers’ column runs twice a month, exclusively in the Daphne Bulletin.