When DCFS Needs To Be On Speed Dial: 11 Examples Of Lazy Parenting

2.  Assuming that your child is “grown” just because they can walk, talk and have their own key to the house.

It hurts my heart when I see parents letting their young children run the streets at all hours of the night because they mistakenly believe that once they know their address and can operate a microwave that they’re “grown.”  The truth is that a parent’s job is never done and even in their teen years as they pass the driver’s test and begin to work a part-time job after-school, that’s often when they need you the most, just in a different way.  As much as we want to encourage our children’s independence, that doesn’t entitle you to an extended vacation from being a mom or dad.  And you better believe there are peers and predators alike who are savoring the opportunity to take advantage of your child while you’re taking some time off.