Joey & Carla Link
August 26, 2026
I was at a park recently and noticed three different types of dogs with their owners.
The first dog was on a short, tight leash. His owner kept him close so he wouldn’t get close to other people or dogs. When no one was around, the owner would let the leash out a little more. But when people or other dogs came near, he would pull the leash back in.
The second dog had a much longer leash. When other dogs came near, the owner was able to call the dog’s name, and the dog immediately stopped, turned around, and headed back toward his owner.
The third dog didn’t have a leash at all. He was free to roam because his owner trusted that he wouldn’t run away, even when other people and dogs were nearby.
Watching these three dogs and their owners made me think about the different stages of parenting.
Sometimes, especially when kids are little, parents need to maintain close and constant supervision over their children. At this stage, children may not yet have the maturity, wisdom, or self-control to handle a great deal of freedom.
When kids are a little older and more responsible, parents can give their children a little more freedom. However, when they need their children to come to them, they respond and come immediately when they hear their names. If a child refuses to listen or come when called, the parent may need to discipline them to correct the behavior and remind the child of the expectations of listening and obeying.
The last stage is when parents no longer need to maintain as much control because they have taught their children how to behave and make wise choices. Of course, there may still be times when a child/teen needs to be reminded of the rules or disciplined for poor choices. This child/teen has been given greater freedom because they understand the difference between right and wrong and typically choose what is right.
Where are you in your parenting?
Are you still needing to hold the leash tightly because your child isn’t ready for more freedom? Are you gradually letting the leash out as they demonstrate responsibility and good decision-making? Or have you taught them what they need to know and can now begin to unleash them, trusting them with more of the freedoms and responsibilities of life?
The goal isn’t to keep our children on a tight leash forever. The goal is to gradually prepare them for greater freedom by teaching them how to make wise and responsible choices when we are not there to guide every step.
“A wise son brings joy to his father.
But a foolish son brings grief to his mother.”
Proverbs 10:1
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