Parenting is difficult!

I know that this may seem to be a simple statement, but it is true - parenting is difficult! In fact, parenting may well be the most difficult job that adults will ever undertake. In the pursuit of raising healthy children, parents must take responsibility for themselves and for their children, monitor their parenting style, and maintain self-awareness in order to successfully regulate the emotional environment of the family. However, in this busy world, it is easy for us to be diverted from the basic aspects of nurturing our children.

In my book, "For All Things A Season," I discuss ten essential points that are important in childrearing and parenting. Keeping these points in mind can provide all parents with valuable tools to use in the process of preparing the soil and watering the garden in which our children grow.

Point #1: Most historical parenting methods are ineffective.
Books, videos, CD's and DVD's abound, competing to become market leaders and acknowledged experts in "How to Raise Children." Many of these present "easy tips" for parenting, or describe scenarios in which, with a few well-chosen words or the application of an simple-to-use technique, all the troubles of the day are set to rest, and misbehavior (on the part of children or parents) will cease. The truth is that there is no such thing as "easy" when it comes to parenting. The thoughtful parent is encouraged to consider their own responsibilities and abilities to manage stress in the family and in interactions with their children, and then to make a commitment to remaining open to the feelings of their children and themselves - not just for a week or two, but over time.

Next post, we'll discuss Point #2.


Have a blessed day.