What is your role as a parent?

I don't think that too much love can spoil our kids. However too much 'pampering'can and does make them stubborn. It is my experience that you have to be firm with them on certain issues if they are to grow up well because they do not know what is best for them at all times.

I think the role of a parent is that of a friend ,philosopher and guide, but not overplaying any of these roles. Of course, upto a certain age the child needs a parent to take nearly all decisions,but after he or she grows to a certain age some decisions must be taken by the children themselves.We certainly should not pamper them and refrain them from becoming worldly wise as they will have to fend for themselves at some point of time.

I'm a stay at home dad, I still don't think I'm qualified for the job though. :) My wife is a travel nurse so we move a lot, she makes the money and I take care of the kids with homeschooling and meals. I don't think my role as a parent should extend past my kids wants but far beyond their needs. I want them to leave the nest and feel confident not scared. I know that some parents try to be best friends with their kids but that's unhealthy. The child will leave one day and we all know what its like to have a best friend move away. Parents should protect their kids but not smother them.