You learn something every single time you feel like you blew it as a parent. Start keeping a journal to remind yourself of these “profits.”
Talk with your kids about real-life stuff like drugs, alcohol, and sexuality. Let them know your values and expectations.
Kids need to figure out for themselves their place in the world. Putting safety first, let them experiment with different styles, attitudes, and interests.
Is your home a retreat? A place your family turns to for comfort? If not, ask your family what will make your house “homier.”
Do your best as a parent, but don’t expect perfection. Your kids aren’t perfect either, but you can focus on the good in them.
What are you teaching your kids about what’s valuable and how they can contribute to the world?
Remind your children that they need to treat you with respect, such as saying please and thank you, and acknowledging your presence.
Avoid glamorizing your accomplishments as a youth. Doing so might put undo pressure on your kids to feel like they have to measure up to unrealistic standards.
The next time you or your child is feeling miserable at bedtime, remind yourselves that tomorrow is a brand-new, different day.
Reading together is important. Choose one hour a week to be family reading time.
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