mommy musings2

I have observed that children need to have choices. They need to be able to make comparisons. When a child has only one role model with him/her always, for example, just the main caregiver, the child will emulate the traits of the main caregiver, good and bad. But if a kid has more than one role models, then he/she can make comparisons and see what works for him/her, ergo they not just imitate but develop their own character. If both parents are involved in the child's upbringing and the kid can look up to both parents, then he/she have points of comparisons and both parents can guide the child on how to act and react in certain situations. Kids don't have innate fears or a sense of right and wrong yet. They take cues from what they see and hear around them. They say that it takes a community to raise a child which is true to a point. It is important for kids to be in a good environment, to be surrounded by people who love them and care for their well-being. They need to be exposed but at the same time they need the grownups to guide and reign them in when they're about to go overboard.

Be there to guide them...

Children are very keen observants and the great thing about kids are that they are spontaneous and honest. You get instant feedback. Grownups can really learn so much from kids. One just needs to listen and be sensitive to their actions. They also have a great sense of justice. So it's important to be good examples to kids. Don't be too uptight and make sure that you can walk the talk.

...but allow them to develop their own character.

That said, education also plays a big role in the development of a child's character. Education is not just the responsibility of the teachers nor is it just the parents'. Parents and teachers should be open-minded and be able to work hand in hand, so it's vital to find the right school or course of education (e.g. homeschooling, private, public, religious, Waldorf, Montessori, etc.) for your child and you.

I'm a first-time parent and don't claim to be an expert in parenting. I am learning and still has so much to learn.