[szypzz]

How do you handle "rules" for a child new to your home in the age range of 5-8 years old? Some information I was given was to make a few general rules like Obey your parents, Love God, Do your best in school, and don't do drugs. Then other information I was given said that since these children are new to your home and probably had very different experiences at the home(s) they've been in before you might want to give them very specific instruction to take away anxiety, such as "When you wake up you may play in your room until we come get you" or "When you wake up you may knock on our bedroom door to let us know you are awake", etc. I'm just a little confused with the conflicting information. Or maybe I'm reading it wrong and it's not conflicting and to use both together. Maybe it's different for each child?

Any insight and "real-life" rules lists will be appreciated.