Continuing On The Road To Being A Fantastic Parent

Awhile back, I posted about a recent article printed in Parents magazine entitled "Let Your Child Soar (and 49 other ways to be a fantastic parent)."
I loved this article and reference it often because I think it offers simple, straightforward, common sense advice about raising our kids to be the best they can possibly be. I listed about 3 in the last post along with some of my comments and I've felt the desire to post a few more. I'd love to hear insight about whether you like/dislike or anything else that you have to say on the matter....

Be the role model your children deserve
"Kids learn by watching their parents. Modeling appropriate, respectful, good behavior works much better than telling them what to do.

My take: How true is that. Kids are in constant observation mode. Their minds are like little sponges, soaking up words, actions, emotions from just about anybody they encounter. And who are they around the most during any given day - mom and dad. I strive to be the best parent with the best attitude, and the best example to my kids that I can be but seem to fall short on many occasions. I try and remember that 4 little eyes are staring at me when a crazy driver decides to cut me off during rush hour traffic. I try and remember 4 little ears can hear my words when I get upset with their father or I'm speaking about an encounter with a friend or colleague. It is so hard and none of us are as perfect as our Heavenly Father but that doesn't mean we should ever stop trying.

Fess up when you blow it
"This is the best way to show your child how and when she should apologize."

My take: Having to humble myself, apologize and ask for forgiveness from a 4 year old is truly one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. But when I'm wrong - I'm wrong. When I've disciplined or acted in a way that is inappropriate the only way to rectify the situation is to apologize and seek forgiveness - whether it be a 4 or 40 year old.

Eat at least one meal as a family each day
"Sitting down at the table together is a relaxed way for everyone to connect - a time to share happy news, talk about the day, or tell a silly joke. It also helps your kids develop healthy eating habits."

My take: We definitely take this one to heart. Supper time is the time that our entire family comes together, sits down, takes a deep breath, and enjoys the presence of one another. Some nights are more relaxed than others but for the most part we definitely make meal time a priority.

So there are just a couple more suggestions on helping you become that fantastic parent. I know I need all the help I can get and so I enjoy reading and rereading this article by Barrie Gillies in the Dec. 2008 edition. I hope to get another post together soon. Hope you've enjoyed these simple suggestions.