Syag,
you said:
“The rules have a basis whether the kids understand them or not, and are not just “rules””
I said:
“As long as the rules are there to benefit the child.”
I think we are on the same page.
I start with the premise that the parent has the child’s best interest at heart, and isn’t making random rules like a mad despot.
PS, I don’t really like the term ‘strict’ it has I think a bad connotation. I think in terms of ‘firm’ as in sticking to your guns when you know that your decision is the right one. And not allowing your child to wear you down. I see that as lazy parenting and not in the child’s best interest.