Kids need structure. They need to know the proper boundaries and understand the consequences of their decisions. How will they learn these if we as parents and teachers don’t model it for them? Do you want them learning the facts of life on the internet? Probably not! Training begins at home and is reinforced at school. They need both.
If you have a child that was raised to understand basic moral values then you can have peace in knowing that they will come to their senses at some point.
Our children need limits. The way we raise them is the way they walk towards adulthood. So, giving kids everything they want is not loving them. It is just the opposite and will produce an entitlement mentality.
Things you can teach kids that will produce healthy adults:
- Love other people and be willing to help them.
- Be willing to work hard for what you want. Don’t expect a handout.
- Educate yourself continually. Never get to the point where you quit learning.
- Learn to forgive others who have wronged you. If you don’t… you give them power over you and you will be a prisoner of the past.
- Have an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful for what you have. Learn to say “Thank You.”
- Be willing to give credit to others. Nobody is solely responsible for their successes. Give credit where credit is due to others that have helped you succeed.
- Realize that the world does not revolve around you (or me). We are important pieces to the puzzle, but there are many other pieces which are vital to the big picture called life.
- Teach them to respect their elders and authority.
- Teach them to surround themselves with the right type of friends.
Help them find their passion in life. Begin to model the proper behavior for them, and don’t lose hope. Set appropriate boundaries, but continue to love them and let them KNOW you love them. When they get older they will remember your words and your actions.
Mrs Xenia Giannaki
Headmistress
Second Home Nursery School
