Set enforceable limits 1. First, there are limits that protect children from physical harm. For example, keeping a preschooler away from a hot stove or showing a young adolescent how to drive a car are limits that ensure personal safety. Parents can also set limits that protect property. Insisting that their adolescent return tools to their proper location or showing a preschooler how to use the television set are examples of limits that protect property.
Some limits protect children and others from psychological harm.
Helping their children express anger without swearing or ridicule may be important to some parents. Showing children how to resolve conflicts without hurting or teasing is another limit that nurtures respect for others. Limits that emphasize respect for others can be important. For example, parents may ask their children to play downstairs after dinner, so they can have a few moments alone to talk. A young adolescent may expect his parents to knock before entering his room.