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Children are often just taken for granted. There are always more important things going on. A child, particularly a young child, always wants to talk, ask questions, communicate. How often have you said 'just a minute dear', or 'hang on let me finish this'. What ever you are doing, generally speaking will still be there in five or ten minutes. It doesn't hurt to stop or pause what you are doing, listen to what your child is saying, or watch what they are doing, or look at what they have drawn, written or built; then answering or commenting. You can then pick up again and continue - or join in with them. It's not children that are taken for granted - it is the role of parenting.

What does it take to be a parent? First and foremost is the understanding that parenting is a 24/7 role. It's not a job - it's a lifestyle. As parents we owe it our children to be a part of their lives and to allow them to be a part of our lives. We need to treat each moment as precious. I wonder how many milestones have been missed because we have been 'too busy'. I once heard a dad say, 'oh, he is walking'. The mother's reply, 'he has been walking for a week now dear'.

As parents we are cooks, we are cleaners, we even do the laundering. We change diapers, no matter how smelly, we are there to comfort them through all their aches and illnesses. We are even their first teachers. However, we are more than that. Any one can cook, clean and change diaper. Anyone can teach and anyone can apply a band-aid.

A parent is one who nutures, provides the love no matter the circumstances. A parent is one who will scold one minute for a broken vase, and cuddle the next. A parent someone a child looks up to for guidance, for love and for all their basic needs. Anyone can cook - but a child will always turn to mum or dad for their meals.

Can you dedicate your life, 24/7, to the care and nurturing of one or more children? If you can, you are ready for parenting. If it all sounds daunting, believe it or not, it isn't. Are you too busy with a career or social life? You're not ready for parenting. If you can juggle your career and social life, with the understanding that your family should be your primary concern, then parenting is waiting for you.

What does it take to be a parent? The understanding that your child is an emerging adult that you have taken under your wing. They have a right to your time. Enjoy each and every day, each and every moment of your child's life. Watch them grow and develop into that adult - and understand that as a parent, it was your dedication that helped them reach that stage of their life. Yes - the simple answer to what it takes to be a parent is one word - dedication.

Learn more about this author, Les Scammell.
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