Love of sons and daughters is also something that nature dictates, for they are one’s own flesh and blood. The primary love for a child] is the love of the soul, and included in this is the love of oneself, for a son benefits his father (see Sanhedrin 104a). Therefore be mindful in your behavior towards your children, and do not treat them with disrespect, so that you yourself are not disgraced. In particular, be mindful of our Sages’ admonition to “never single out one son among his other sons” (Shabbos 10b), for there is nothing harsher than jealousy.
In general, the parent needs to interact with the child in accord with the child’s character and way of thinking so that he will not sin. And if your child misbehaves towards you, forgive the child quickly, so that the child will not be Divinely] punished on your account. Do not be overly exacting with your children, and sometimes it is better] to act deaf and blind, as though you did not see or hear what the child did]. You should occasionally set aside your own wishes for the sake of your children’s wishes. This is a major principle for anybody who wants everlasting good for himself and for his children.
