Gò0dNews for Parents
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Tips On Parenting by Leslie Bennett
e have been blessed with a son, a daughter,
• Set boundaries. Your kids need to know what you
and four grandchildren. Children truly are a
expect from them. No limits will cause their world to
blessing from God. Psalm 127:3 says, “Behold,
seem out of control.
children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb
• Act quickly. If you wait too long to discipline, your
is a reward.” Along with these rewards comes responsibility.
child may forget why they are being disciplined.
We are instructed in Ephesians 6:4, “Do not provoke your
• Practice patience. Don’t rush your children; rather,
children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and
enjoy them and take it all in. They grow up way
admonition of the Lord.”
too quickly.
John 3:16 is the perfect place to begin training your children: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” However, if you want your children to believe this Scripture and find their way to a loving God, it is necessary to show them unconditional love at home. Here are some suggestions for raising happy, well-balanced children: • Be a good role model. Although your young children may think you are perfect, you are not. Strive to be your best self. • Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are human and will make mistakes. Children need to realize your imperfections and that you serve a forgiving God. • Never be afraid to say you are sorry when you mess up. Your children will learn humility from your example. • Show affection. Touch is very important to children. Hugs, kisses, and “I love you’s” give your children a sense of security. • Praise your children when you catch them doing good. Spotlighting good behavior encourages more of
• Create traditions with your children. Family outings, game nights, Saturday morning breakfasts, and such will strengthen family ties. • Give them responsibility. Doing chores will teach them to be part of a community. • Don’t forget to laugh. Using humor in your favor can help maintain a sense of peace in your home. As you invest in the lives of your children, remember this quote that is near to my heart: “You deserve the best I have to give, and that’s my undying love as long as you shall live.”
32 // March 2020
About The Author
the same. Leslie Bennett is a kindergarten assistant at Michigan Avenue School. She is a member of First Baptist Church and sings in the adult choir. She manages a blog at ohyesshedid.org.
