Susannah Wesley was a remarkable woman, the wife of a struggling Anglican clergyman in the late 17th century and the mother of 19 children. She was determined to raise her children in godly wisdom and discipline, overseeing every aspect of their education. And it had good effect: her two most famous children were John, an itinerant evangelist and theologian who started the Methodist movement; and Charles, a gifted musician and prolific hymn-writer.

Susannah is well-known for these six rules for raising children:

1. Subdue self-will in a child and work together with God to save his soul.

2. Teach him to pray as soon as he can speak.

3. Give him nothing he cries for and only what is good for him if he asks for it politely.

4. To prevent lying, punish no fault which is freely confessed but never allow a rebellious, sinful act to go unnoticed.

5. Commend and reward good behavior.

6. Strictly observe all promises you have made to your child.