Parenting

At times, I wonder in amazement how my parents successfully raised two kind, respectful, and well-mannered daughters. They were able to parent without self-help books, parenting blogs, emails to experts, etc. My mother and father fostered strong family values, held high expectations, and believed in open communication with each other and with my sister and I. These days, I'm not so sure parents know what they are doing. They want the best for their children, but don't heed expert advice given. They request assistance with a family conflict, but question the course of action recommended. There's a lack of common sense and trust in the experts they call upon.

Here's what I want to say: Try to problem solve yourself first. Chances are, a heart to heart conversation with a child will yield the information, results, responses, etc. that you need! Then, instead of running all over the place trying to figure out what is wrong and what to do, you can spend the time with your child, building and strengthening your relationship and creating memories.