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On Parenting
Beware!Observations Galore!
Have you ever thought about the fact that once a child comes into our home, we are on stage! Our children observe us all day long, at our best and at our worst. Most of what they learn comes from us. That can be good or bad. That is why it is so essential for us to have our lives in order. Does that put the pressure on? Indeed it does. We have our own problems, our obligations, our own life! That sounds to me like a very good reason to think twice about bringing a child into our world.
 Children are one of our greatest gifts. What an awesome responsibility to have tremendous influence over another person. And not only that, but this child will grow to be an adult and have children also. The influence we have upon our child lives on through grandchildren. Again, what a responsibility.
Think about the areas of parenthood below that you might can improve. Being a spouse and a parent is one of the most important jobs you will ever be assigned in this world.
"How badly America needs husbands and wives who are committed to their families."
Dr. James Dobson
- Our primary role as a parent is not to be the boss, but to be a servant leader who leads the children to be the best they can be. Can you say you are a loving leader rather than a boss?
- Communication is one of the most important roles as a parent. Teaching, discipline and family fun can be administered better when the communication level is open. This takes work, it takes lots of time to sit down and listen to your child when you have a pressing day ahead of you. But it can be achieved and the child knows when you are truly interested in what they have to say. Being a good listener will never get you in trouble!
- Always laugh when you can. If your children sense that life is not one big worry to you, they will lean toward a more positive outlook. This is so important as they learn how to deal with life. Laughter is important in our role model position, but also in our own life to keep our stress levels down and our heart light. We may have to make ourself laugh at times when we don't want to. But I believe there are many times we stifle a laugh when we could use it as a teaching tool for our children.
- As I am sure I have said before, one of the best things you can do for your child is to let him/her see you be affectionate to your spouse. This speaks volumes to young children who are trying to decipher their role in life. If they see you being courteous, laughing together, holding hands and being kind, it says marriage is fun. It says I love this other parent of yours and I respect them. This, too, takes work. It's worth it. Not only are you being good examples for your children, but it can enhance your private life with your spouse.
- Praise is important in the life of your child. They won't get much out in the world unless they are fortunate to have a wonderful teacher that understands their role in the life of a child. Praise them for their efforts, whether they win or not because it's trying that is important. They will go out into life not being afraid to try things, knowing always they won't win. Mark Twain once said, ,"Praise your children openly, reprove them secretly." What a wise man!
- Faith is an important part of leading a family. Your children will be able to observe who you turn to in times of distress and sadness. The old adage that says, "A family who prays together stays together" has a lot of truth in it. Bedtime prayers are important. This is a quiet time when the parent can hear what is on the child's heart. Think about it.
These are areas you can think about and improve with earnest effort. The reward is a child that can cope with life when it hits him in the face. They will look back on their early beginnings and be thankful for having parents of wisdom.
"The best things you can give children, next to good habits, are good memories."
Syndey J. Harris
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