Family is a precious commodity in the days we are living in; it seems that they are about the only thing worth investing in. It’s like any relationship, you need to make time for each other and in lieu of the time spent, bonds are made that aren’t easily broken.
“Like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions but our roots remain as one.”
– Suzy Kazzem
I was listening to a program lately that was about raising kids.
Of course, our kids are grown-ups now with kids of their own and doing Parenting 101 as it comes. Apparently, times have changed a lot and even Dr. Spock’s method of child-rearing has become a little outdated according to many.
But there were a few truths in what he wrote: According to an article, Dr. Spock’s timeless lessons in parenting, “Spock emphasized parenting as a voyage of discovery. He treated mistakes as learning opportunities. True to his word, his own views evolved over time.”
https://theconversation.com/dr-spocks-timeless-lessons-in-parenting-122377
In the program I was watching, a statement was made that makes incredible sense. It went something like, “Do not prepare the road for the child but prepare the child for the road.”
There is so much wisdom in that. In the context of it all, what was being said is that it is much better for you as a parent to not make the road for your children so incredibly easy by giving them everything but to allow them the opportunity to work through some of the challenges of life as they go along even if they make mistakes.
By doing so, they learn coping skills and seem to be better able to cope throughout their lifetime. Because, as we all know, not every day in life is a picnic. We all have to wade through some crap once in awhile.
“Let your children fall down and fail and make mistakes. Provide the opportunity for them to make amends and learn from their experiences. Allow them the gift of pain when they need to suffer a bit. In the end they will be ready for the road ahead and not be waiting for the world to take care of them,” says John Scardina, School Psychologist.
Recently, we were at our grandson’s soccer practice and noticed how some of the kids had the chutzpa to get in there and dig for the ball, while others just stood there and watched waiting for someone to kick the ball to them.
Of course, the kids were only around six years old, but the thought I had was directed to the society we live in now. Most kids are just happy and content to get a ribbon or award for participating.
I’m not sure that’s the best way to prepare your child for the road. As far as I’m concerned, you need to get into the game, whatever it might be (soccer or life), to learn the skills you need to navigate your way to success.
The views expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Moose Jaw Today, the Moose Jaw Express, its management, or its subsidiaries.
