Parent in the Present

As a parent, the present is your place of strength. All of your thoughts, feelings, ideas and choices happen right now, in the present. You cannot do anything to change what happened in the past, but you can learn from it and grow to become the best parent that you can be for your children. You do not have control over the future, but you can plan for it. You can start by changing how you parent, now.

Make a big impression

Parenthood is one of the most important and challenging journeys of your life. As a parent, you make a big impression in the life of your children. You are their first, most important and most lasting teacher in their lives. You also are their protector, role model and nurturer. Your children turn to you, first, to meet their needs.

Not all children are the same. They have unique personalities, different interests, and diverse needs. Parenting also is a very individual experience. Some parents find they have a lot to learn about parenting, especially if they did not have a positive role model to learn from when they were growing up.

Be involved

Most parents, today, want to be more involved in their children’s lives, in more ways than ever before. They want to be there for their children and take part in raising them. Parenting may feel like a big responsibility, but the rewards are enormous. Even if you are not the primary caregiver of your children, it is important for you to be as involved as possible in parenting your children. You can choose to learn all you can about your parenting role and about what you can offer to support your children’s growth and development. Everything you do with your children is a gift. Love and cherish each of your children. Expose your children to a variety of positive life experiences.