When your child comes to you with a challenge, or a confession, remember this. Our goal as parents isn't to exact punishment or consequences. Our goal is to help our kids develop the skills and values they'll need to be successful independently. Sometimes our kids learn through a tough experience, and often, that lesson is enough. It doesn't require further reinforcement. You're not letting them off the hook, but you are creating space for them to continue to come to you as they do those things kids are gonna do. You know. The things you did when you were their age, too.