A reader on Facebook recently asked privately, “My friends and I parent differently. What is the difference between allowing your boys to be rambunctious and boyish and letting them be obnoxious and run wild?”

I think the balance is found in appropriateness. Outside, let them run and play and wrestle and yell. Inside, they moderate it to keep from damaging things and driving you crazy. At other people’s houses, they moderate it still more to comply with their rules and to be good guests. At church, or elderly family member’s house or a wedding or funeral, they learn to be quiet, still and respectful. They can learn the difference, though it’s a challenge when they’re younger.

Much love,

Melanie