[Brigliadore]

I think you absolutely right on this one. Growing up my mom made sure I understood the rules, and why she had them. Because I knew them without a doubt and the reason behind them I often didn't need to get punished, because I followed the rules.
What I think is the most important thing when raising kids, is that they have a clear understanding of the rules. That the rules don't change from day to day and that they understand that their parent will not put up with the rules not being followed.

Something my mom always said to me as I was growing up, and it is something that has stuck with me was, " When I ask you to do something you can ask me why, but you cant tell me no".

That to me is the way it should be, a child can ask "why" to have a better understanding of why something is being asked of them, but "no" is not an option.