P.A.R.E.N.T.I.N.G- life long learning

Parenting is not a sprint. It’s a marathon with on the job training and growth potential. It is definitely not for the faint of heart and many times the “rewards”may seem elusive and not readily measurable. In my 2 decades as a parent, this is what P.A.R.E.N.T.I.N.G means to me. P- Praying for your children. Praying daily for their safety, success, health, and much more. A-Advocating for and Attending to their needs (not all their wants), evolving as these change. R-Respecting them and teaching them to respect others. No matter how young they are, they should be respected as individuals E- Encouraging them to be the best they can be. Believe in them and let them know you do. N- Negotiating for them, with them and teaching them to be effective negotiators. T- Teaching them what you want them to know, the values you want passed on. Our roles as teachers is lifelong. I- inspiring them to do their best by living our best lives, doing our best and giving back. N- Never giving up on them or comparing them to others. Children have different personalities, interests, struggles, strengths and deserve our unflinching support. G- Gratitude. Modeling gratitude is key. Having a grateful heart despite the odds is cultivated, leads to contentment and brings joy. None of these are things you buy and are All these things we can do regardless of our socio economic status or where we live. Here’s praying for strength to do our best at PARENTING. You’ve got this💪🏿 Toyin