When you left the hospital to take your newborn home for the first time, you may have hoped that the baby bag contained some kind of manual giving parental advice on how to handle the next 18-plus years. Then you remembered that babies don't come with a set of instructions for parents on how to teach a child values, resolve a conflict with a sibling or help a child study for an upcoming test. Our tips for parents can help prepare you for various situations, as well as provide ideas for activities that you can enjoy as a family.
As a parent, you probably do your best to recognize and celebrate your child’s hard work and accomplishments. Rewarding your child for a job well done is normal and helps to instill a strong work ethic in them early in life.
Another lesson that you should teach your child is learning how to celebrate the success of others. For many young children, it’s a difficult concept to grasp, but celebrating others is an important life lesson to learn.
Most people will celebrate the big moments in life. Events such as birthdays, weddings, holidays and graduations are momentous occasions and are rightfully celebrated. But, who says that celebrations should only be limited to these milestones?
There are opportunities to celebrate the wonderful little things in life, all the time. Sometimes the big things wouldn’t have happened without the accumulation of smaller events along the way. For example, you may have reason to celebrate your child’s high school graduation because throughout their academic career they received good grades on school assignments and report cards.
Taking time to celebrate the little things is also an opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Years into the future, you and your family may not remember the exact reasons for all your small celebrations, but you will likely remember the joy of the festivities.
To my dear child,
When I learned that I was going to become a parent, I must admit that I was a little nervous. My nervousness eventually subsided, however, and gave way to joy and excitement.
I will never forget the day that you came into my life. You, my dear child, are the greatest gift that has ever been given to me.
Your children are your world, your everything. You may think that this is obvious to everyone around you, but have you ever asked your child what he or she thinks is the most important thing to you? Or, have you ever asked your child what is the most important to him or her?
You might be surprised by your child’s response.
This fun and interactive illustration game can give you better insight into your child’s perspective.
“Can we get a pet? I promise I’ll take care of it! You won’t have to do anything. I’ll feed it, and walk it, and clean up after it. Please, mom! I really want a pet!”
Ah yes, the promises of a child who wants a pet. This is something that many parents can relate to. For some children, the idea of having a pet can be all-consuming. Sure, there are plenty of benefits and teaching opportunities to be had for families who have a pet. On the flip side, there is also a lot of added responsibility and work, depending on the type of pet.
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