Harriette Cole: Should I cancel the party after what my teen did at school?

DEAR HARRIETTE: My 13-year-old daughter recently got into trouble at school, and now I’m torn about whether to let her go ahead with the birthday party we’ve been planning for her.

The situation at school was serious: She was disrespectful to a teacher and broke some of the school rules.

When I spoke to her about it, she seemed remorseful, but I’m not entirely sure if she understands the gravity of her actions or how her behavior reflects on her character and values.

Her birthday is coming up in just a few weeks, and we’ve already started organizing a party for her with friends and family. However, I’m struggling with whether it’s appropriate to reward her with a big celebration so soon after this incident.

Part of me feels like canceling or postponing the party might send a stronger message about accountability and the importance of good behavior.

On the other hand, I don’t want to be overly harsh. She’s a teenager, and I know that kids her age are still learning and making mistakes. Canceling her party might feel like an excessive punishment and could damage our relationship.

Should we allow her to keep the party on her birthday?

— Disciplinary Woes

DEAR DISCIPLINARY WOES: Rather than waiting until your daughter’s birthday to punish her, do something now to ensure that she understands the gravity of her actions.

Take away her cellphone for a couple of weeks; require her to write an essay about what it means to be accountable for her actions. Have her contemplate what happened, and craft an apology that delineates her understanding of what she did wrong and how she can avoid making such a bad decision in the future.

Don’t wait for the birthday, as they are unrelated. Address this situation now.

You can also simplify the party if you think that will send an additional message, but you don’t have to cancel it. Instead, tend to this indiscretion now.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am 38 years old. I’ve been married for two years, and I gave birth to my first child six months ago.

Although I am enjoying motherhood, giving birth was not at all what I expected. Labor was not easy on me. I had to be induced, and though I wasn’t dilating, I was in so much pain. My blood pressure rose, and I ended up having an emergency C-section.

That was a really scary experience for me, and at my age, I don’t believe a second time around would be easier.

My husband wants more children. I love being a mom to my beautiful boy, and I am more than happy with just the three of us.

When he discusses future siblings for our baby, I try to dial him back by saying it was a lot on me or ask why he wants more, but we’re still not on the same page.

Is this sort of fear worth going to therapy for? Or is it OK to accept that I do not want to do that again?

— Another Child

DEAR ANOTHER CHILD: Talk to your OB-GYN to gain insight about your health and options.

Be frank with your husband about your feelings today based on what happened to you when you gave birth. Tell him that right now, you are not ready. Be clear that your decision will be based on your own comfort level and your doctor’s recommendation, and don’t forget that adoption is always an option.

Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.