parenting abc

Accountability – hold your children accountable for their behavior
Boundaries – Set specific limits, and make clear the repercussions if those limits are exceeded.
Consistency – hold to the same principles and practices
Discipline – make the punishment fit the crime. Never discipline in anger.
Example – Children are in greater need of models than critics. Set a good example.
Forgiveness – Practice it, and teach the importance of forgiveness.
Giving – Teach the joy of giving, serving, not only to family and friends, but to strangers, neighbors in need.
Humor – Keep your sense of humor. Promote laughter with your children.
Imagination – Be creative and play with your children. Make up stories or songs when you read and sing with them.
Justice - Be fair, and insist that they be fair, also.
Knowing- your children’s friends and their parents as well as their teachers.
Listen- to your children. It will teach them how to listen to others, and their thoughts will give you insights.
Morals – Be sure your own standard of conduct is sound.
No – Use it, and mean it.
Outdoors – Provide as much outdoor activity as possible. Teach respect for nature.
Pressure – Reduce the pressure on your children, but insist they maintain high standards
Questions – Pay close attention to their questions, and give simple answers unless they demand more.
Respect – show respect, teach respect and earn respect.
Source of Strength – Share your own faith or beliefs with your children. Faith can be their port in the storms of life later.
Togetherness – Have special, designated times to be together as a family – but know when to let go, too.
Uniqueness – Understand the uniqueness of each child, and let that child be who he or she is.
Voice – Tone of voice can convey more to a child than the words spoken.
Words – Keep your word. Promises broken destroy trust.
Examine- constantly, and be aware
You – Take care of yourself mentally, physically, spiritually. A happy parent helps a child to be happy.
Zowie! – Who would have thought they would grow up so quickly?