Parenting - Leader - Role Model

• Apr 10, 2008 by Judi

Even though this is my “momma” site, I don’t usually talk much about parenting. I’m not sure why that is.. maybe because when I do think of a really good post topic it’s usually 3 in the morning when I think I’m awake enough I’ve surely remember, and in reality, I’m so not.

But today, something happened I felt would be a good topic.

My boys are 3 and 6 - in less than 2 months they will both jump to their next age. They are both sensitive, usually considerate, though they have their moments - for the most part, you won’t hear me complain.

They are home schooled and don’t get around other kids to play a whole lot.. but Thursdays has become routine to come to work with me and play with 2 other kids - brother (6) and sister (2nd grade).. *my* boys were fighting at one point to the point they were hitting each other.

I let Bob (dad) handle it since I was working. But when Tege got really vocally upset, I went to see what was going on. Bob had them both in time out. Time out is fine, necessary at times for a cool off, or just for new direction.. however, in front of friends, I disagree with. Because this is a similar situation to what Bob and I dealt with in past year with our two girls, I told him under my breath he should have had the boys come out of the room if he were going to give time out (or any punishment)… Apparently, Tege would not leave the room at the time… I told Bob, again under my breath, he should have then asked his friends to leave the room.

My point with Bob was don’t embarrass our kids in front of their friends. Kids are learning and treating them in a thoughtful manner will develop a strong respect… respect goes both ways - but it’s my opinion we give respect to our children for them to learn to respect us.

As parents we can be leaders for our children; guide, teach, encourage.. I am not a perfect parent, I don’t hesitate to apologize to my children for mistakes, and sometimes, I haven’t made the best decisions in life, for which I tell them that I can’t easily change how things are, but look, see what I do wrong and try to make better choices for yourself. In other words, become a good role model for your children. Teach them to treat others how they would want to be treated and to not be embarrassed to admit mistakes.

I love being a mom. I don’t think I could handle any more kids - the only time I imagine infants now is from a grandmomma point of view! Just not too soon!! People talk about favorites.. what I tell my kids is “You are my most favorite ? year old in the whole world” (inserting child appropriate age,of course).. so I can tell each of them, always, how they are my favorite.