As
we make our New Year’s resolutions–the usual weight loss, exercise, save money,
and healthy life style–I would like us to think about what we want, not for ourselves,
but for our children. When asked what they most want for their child, parents
say things like, I want him or her to be happy, to have a fulfilling life, to
have enough money, to have friends, and to have good health.
My
challenge to you this year is to consider what you do as parents of young
children to assure that you are doing the kinds of things that increase the
odds of your child achieving the kinds of things we hope for. We will start
2013 considering what parents can do to raise a child who will be happy.
Are
you happy? For the next 18 years after birth, a child will live with adults who
model by their actions the way they feel about life. I am always in wonder,
looking at the faces of young children in their preschool years. A child’s
facial expression begins to take on the look that I see on the face of their
parent. Parents who live in a state of unhappiness, fear, sadness, or anger
model this attitude for their children. Parents who find happiness in each
day’s activities, who smile and laugh, model this attitude.
In
the face of the child you see the reflection of the parent’s life. To raise
children who are happy––be happy.
song
Thumbs
are in the thumb place
Fingers
all together
This
is the song
We
sing in mitten weather
When
it’s cold outside
It
doesn’t matter whether
They
are made of wool
Or
made of finest leather
repeat 1st first verse, mime actions
