Title: Closing Thoughts
Category:
I would like to thank the Daily World, especially Harlan Kirgan (editor) and Aaron Parsons (publisher) for printing my weekly column, "Child Care" for the past 8 years. I feel the need to slow down, somewhat, and spend more time at home. I thought I'd close my series with a few parting "personal" thoughts.
1. This is a great time to be alive and raise kids if we maintain the sanctity of families. Despite crumbling values in our society,
we can choose to put our family life and properly raising our kids as our #1 priority.
2. This should start by placing God at the center of your home, praying together daily and "walking your walk", as a parent.
3. Spending time with your spouse and kids should supersede material things.
4. Moms "ideally" should be home with young pre-school age children, or at least work out as creative a schedule as possible.
5. Parents must "discipline" (disciple) their kids to prepare them for the world
ahead.
6. Families that pray, play, and laugh together a lot stay
together.
7. Don't rush your kids. Let "them" find their life's path as it unfolds for them at their own pace.
8. Love is the most important positive character trait we can teach our children primarily through our daily example. Consistent
unconditional love can give your family the strength to face all of its obstacles.
9. Strive to be the kind of person you want your child to become, for example, loving, peaceful, and happy.
10. Never give up hope for your children. Be like the prodigal son's father and let them know you're always there for them and
will always be ready to forgive and help them.