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consistency and loving guidance.

Q

Quickly address disciplinary issues. Deal with these immediately and fairly, and then move on. As the old adage aptly states, "Let bygones be bygones."

R

Realize your limitations. Even parents make mistakes. Sometimes, the greatest lesson we can teach our kids is how to say, "I'm sorry" and really mean it.

S

Save time for your children. Earning enough to provide for your family is essential. Creating a cozy, safe, and attractive home is a plus. Still, nothing can replace the time you spend together. Children do grow up at warp speed these days, and the time can never be regained.

T

Try to find time for yourself as well. This is a balancing act, but parents who carve out brief respites return to nurture their children with fresh energy and enthusiasm. When kids are asleep or busy, try to take a few moments for rest or recreation, not just to complete chores. You may find you appreciate your children even more. What could be better for their self esteem?

U

Understanding is important. What an understatement! It may be hard for some parents to remember what it felt like to be a kid, or a teen. However, when we try to view their perspective, we may gain some compassion and understanding.

V

Values matter. Often, we question our actions as parents. Do we discipline for value violations or mere annoyances? When children misbehave, do we take this personally, as an attack upon ourselves? How much more often are children merely acting out their own immaturity and need for strong, but fair, limits?

W

Wait. Parents may be frustrated with their children at times. Just wait and watch, as they mature and change right before your eyes.

X

Examine your behavior regularly. Caring parents may make midstream corrections constantly. This does not mean we do not hold consistent standards. We just try to be reasonable. We are willing to listen, negotiate, and compromise on some issues. Of course, absolutes are non-negotiable. We are simply willing to grow and learn.

Y

You are your child's best advocate. Occasionally, you may be his ONLY advocate. If you cannot stand up for her, who will? At some point, you will probably have to do this. Perhaps a teacher will treat him unfairly. Maybe a friend's parents will accuse her of something she did not do. Possibly, he may require special services at school. It will fall to you, as parent, to be his champion.

Z

Zookeepers have an easier job than you do! Raising children is a lot like training wild animals. Eventually, with fair treatment and consistent training, they will learn. However, if parents expect children to perform on demand for an audience, we are sure to be disappointed and embarrassed. Even the lion tamers know this!

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
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