World's Strictest Parents

The Whidden family has a new "family" show that we enjoy watching together....World's Strictest Parents on CMT. Each week as I watch two trouble teenagers go into "strict" homes, I'm amazed at the transformation that takes place as they're in the care of not just "strict," but rather of parents who are in control. As soon as the teenagers realize that they are no longer in charge and someone else is, it's almost like they can breathe and relax. Last night after we watched the Forsythe family in Arkansas, I mentioned to Mitch and the kids that it's a lot about the dad and his care and involvement in the teenagers lives. Whenever the teens would get out of hand, he would step in and let them know the rules and how they were to behave in their house. He didn't yell, but remained in control.

Mitchell then said that we should apply to be on the show because we could "help people." I asked him if he thought we were strict and he said, "no." I am really enjoying the short time that we've had teenagers and to be quite honest we don't have very many rules in our home. Our kids know what is expected and don't really challenge us. It's enjoyable! Mitch is the best dad I've ever seen and we make sure we support each other with our decisions as far as parenting goes. We don't have to "make" our kids go to church; they want to go. They know that the computers are passworded and they "ask" to have it unlocked and never out of frustration. They know that all shows on TV that are rated over PG are locked and they don't have a problem getting us to approve the show. I don't consider us strict, but rather close and caring. I know that we have a long way to go with the teenage years, but so far I'm enjoying it. I talk to my kids, text my kids, and play with my kids. I'm just hoping I'm making a difference in their lives and raising assets to society for the future.