Sunday, October 7, 2012

10 Things I've Learned From My Kids

1.  Penmanship really does matter

  • If you write and spell well, it's all lost if nobody can read it.  In our world, penmanship is so much more important since we have become accustom to reading everything in perfect print online.
  • The letters "c, k, o, s, u, v, w, x and z" will forever frustrate me for the reasons mentioned above.
2.  2 wrongs don't make a right
  • He told me to
  • Painful but true, "but you did it too"
3.  There is a time to be focused and a time to daydream.  Don't discount the importance of either.
  • Listen to and encourage the dreams of your children
  • Help them learn to stay focused in even the noisiest settings
  • Take time to daydream
4.  Expect the best, understand good enough and never settle for anything less.

5.  Prayers work... always.
  • Sometimes the things we want the most would be the worst for us
  • Even when we are unaware, things will work out the way they are supposed to for the greater plan
6.   Sometimes, less is more.
  • Don't become so over scheduled that you can't take time to enjoy the little moments that life are made of.
  • If you expect perfection from yourself, your children won't attempt new things unless they too can be perfect.
  • If it doesn't make a difference, what difference does it make?
7.  Hold children accountable
  • Much past the age of 5, allowing them to blame Mom or Dad for a forgotten coat or misplaced assignment isn't acceptable.  Turn it back on your kids... make them accountable!
  • Chores are not slavery
  • Every once in a while, a failed assignment is worth the teachable moment.... I need to remember this one!
8.  Focus on the positive but don't be afraid to set boundaries and enforce rules
  • When your child is listing of negatives, make them say at least 3 positive things about the situation (thank you S.C. for this insight!)
  • Be consistent in rules, discipline, and never miss a chance to praise.
9.  Don't be afraid to cry in front of your kids
  • Don't be a basket case or make your children serve as the parent BUT show them it's okay to express emotions
  • Showing emotion makes your children more comfortable to show their emotions

10.  If you mess up, say you're sorry