The article "How To Fight Fair In Front Of The Kids" in the July issue of Cookie (page 69, written by Lori Leibovich) magazine really hit home this week.  It shared that in a 2006 Child Development study, high conflict homes resulted in kids with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, insecurities, behavioral problems, etc...  Now, no one likes to admit that they fight with their spouse, but everyone does at one point or another...it's only natural.  The hard part is making sure you argue with respect, especially when in front of the kids.  

The article went on to say that when we fight fair, we not only teach our children about compromise, we also teach them that you can disagree with someone without "going to war".  Additionally, they said that if a disagreement is escalating, that is when one or both parties need to take a time out.  Yes, even adults need a time out or cooling down period.  And if you think screaming behind a closed door is hiding the argument from the kids, think again.  Children are sensitized to conflict, open or hidden.  Lastly, the article covered the affects of bickering.  Constant hen-pecking (as my spouse calls it) sends a negative message to kids about how people can treat one another. 

Bottom line, we have to remember that we are role models for our children.  They pick up or mimic everything we do.  Personally, I want to send my children out into the world to be compassionate, respectful and appreciative.  I don't want our bad habits to become our kid's bad habits.

If this post hits home with you, check out the "23 Ways To Fight Fair With Your Husband" from Modern Mom's website http://www.modernmom.com/love_wellness/article/2135/.  I now have it posted on my frigerator....