Your post proved my point. Children need boundaries & guidance & rules. The structuring offers stability & a known limit for acceptable behavior. Children need the reassurance that "this behavior is bad" & an occasional, "Hey, you've really been a joy lately, & I like spending time with you. You're a good person.". Makes a huge difference when somebody sees that they have something to contribute to the world, & they matter.
Best of luck to all. I hope everything works out for the better.
