Overstepping boundaries? Rules for parenting other peoples' kids

PHOENIX - Have you ever found yourself reprimanding other peoples' kids?

Did you cross the line, and how do you know?

Dr. Lynne Kenney, author of "The Family Coach Method", shared her opinions on disciplining other peoples' children, explaining how to help keep kids in check while not overstepping your boundaries.

What is a reprimand?

Dr. Lynne: A reprimand implies criticism or punishment. How about using redirection, offering a new behavior or asking the child to make a better choice?

Should we ever reprimand another parent's child?

It depends. Are you the responsible adult in charge in that moment? Is the child at your home, where your rules reign? Are you checking your own anger or bossiness?

If it's really about the child's behavior then offering a new choice may be helpful. If the parent is present, do you ask them to redirect their child? "I notice Joey is… could you ask him to make a different choice?" or "Do you think we should help out?"

Often a parent is just too tired or distracted to step up to the plate, help that parent with gentle reminders.

What if we offend the other parent?

If you have a different parenting style or values base than the other parent, they may be offended. But your job is to live with your values and keep your kids safe. So kindly speak up, you'll be doing the right thing.