#26: Being a Parent First, Friend Second

For years, we’ve watched parents wrestle with the idea of being the “cool” parent versus the strict one. While it’s possible to maintain a healthy balance, many people end up sliding too far in one direction, often without realizing it.

At the end of the day, your primary role is to guide, protect, and support your child. Yes, you can build a warm, friendly bond — but your responsibility comes before popularity. Kids need structure just as much as affection, and losing sight of that can do more harm than good.

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