Parental Involvement...A Bad Thing?

Did you know that Michael Jordan, probably one of the greatest basketball players of our time, has missed more baskets than he's made? Were you aware that Thomas Edison had very little formal education? He was taught reading, writing and arithmetic by his mother and taught himself much by reading on his own. Recently a U.S. Soldier was arrested for waterboarding his 4-year old daughter because she would not recite her ABC's. Extreme measure? Most definitely. As parents we are obligated to raise, teach, nourish and above all, love our children. It's a proud moment in a parent's life when their child can recite 26 letters in a row, mimic animals and count to ten. It's an even prouder moment when you, as a parent, raise your child to be a person of integrity and character. These traits can only be learned by example.

Do you place the needs (not 'wants') of your children first? Do you sit at the same table and have breakfast or dinner together? Do your children know what you look like? Children, regardless of age, want to feel needed and loved. If they don't get it from you, they'll go looking for it from someone else. They yearn for parents to be their parents and not their friends, no matter what they say to the contrary. Fathers, more than likely your daughters will end up marrying a man just like you. Mothers, same thing with your sons. Are you the parent you want your child to marry?

With Spring Break just around the corner, it's a perfect time to reconnect with your child. To get to know them as a person. To listen to their dreams. To realize past mistakes and take steps to correct them. To realize that the child you raised is as unique and special as you are.  Don't be the parent who pushes and pushes to point of abuse, be the parent who stands with them as they make mistakes.

Starting today, get involved. Share your thoughts and ideas with me at parenting@vapta.org.