We want to celebrate our child's unique traits, but sometimes their differences can be worrying. We wonder if they seem a little out of step with developmental milestones or when their temperament seems much different when compared with other children?
Absolutely the greatest contribution I can make toward Earth's stewardship is to raise children who care.
What are your favorite activities to do in nature? What is one activity you can share with your child this week?
Happy, confident, caring children grow up in an atmosphere of flexibility and trust, supported by respectful and realistic parents who do not see challenging behaviors as indications that there is a problem with their children. Adults and children share many of the behaviors considered to be "problem behaviors" when exhibited by children.
Which behaviors do you share with your child?
Every January presents us with the opportunity for a fresh start, for doing things differently to make positive changes in our families' lives. These 9 resolutions helped me engage in more peaceful parenting with my children, and I hope they help you to create more joyful connection with your children this year.
In what little ways can you put a couple of these resolutions into practice in your home this week?
My friend, Nichole, and her husband both work full-time. Their 2-year-old daughter spends the day with a childcare provider who has cared for her during work days since she was 6 weeks old. Nichole's husband picks up their daughter from the childcare center.
In what ways do you reconnect with your child after time away?
I breastfed both of my babies. Once we got the hang of things, it was easy. Then I introduced solid foods. I decided that presenting healthy options wasn't enough. I wanted to get them involved in the food they eat.
How do you involve your children in their food?
January is when I look to the future, reflecting on the positive changes I'd like to make in my parenting. Here are my top 6 parenting resolutions for this new year.
When can you let go of your daily to-do list to spend a few minutes of enjoying the present with your child?
