So it’s interesting as I reflect on a time when I noticed a palpable shift in the respect that my young sons (early teens) showed me. They were both at a stage of challenging behaviours and testing limits (normal developmental process) and I was encountering disrespect and that it was a battle. I was involved in a volunteer organization and began to involve our family in some community events with the volunteer group and families. I noticed my sons paying attention more and seeing me in another sphere and the respect I commanded there. Eldest S commented on it and has since joined me as a volunteer. I didn’t cave or become more accommodating or focus on my dependability or consistency as important as they are. I got involved in something else and included my family at times.
