Wednesday, October 18, 2023

How we raise our kids matters

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by Rosabel Zohfeld, APRN, MSN-Ed, FNP-C

Recently, at a public park, my 7-year-old son told me he heard a little girl say: Boys cannot hit girls, but girls can hit boys. To that, I briefly explained my son that nobody (boy or girl) should be hitting anyone. While I never met the girl who commented neither the parents, that made me think of the following subject. How we raise our kids matters. 

How we raise kids matters for several important reasons that impact their development, well-being, and future success. 

Early childhood is a critical period for brain development. How you interact with and stimulate your children during this time can significantly impact their cognitive, emotional, and social development. Our parenting style and behavior set the foundation for your children's understanding of values, morals, and ethics. Your actions and guidance shape their perceptions of right and wrong. Our parenting approach affects your children's emotional well-being and mental health. A loving, supportive, and secure environment helps build resilience and fosters emotional regulation.How we model and teach interpersonal skills and relationships influences how our children interact with others. They learn empathy, communication, conflict resolution, and cooperation through your interactions.

Our involvement and encouragement in their education and setting achievement expectations can positively impact their academic performance and future career aspirations.Praising, encouraging, and supporting our children shapes their self-esteem and confidence. Positive reinforcement helps them believe in their abilities and pursue their goals.

Our parenting practices can influence children's attitudes toward health, nutrition, physical activity, and other lifestyle choices. Teaching healthy habits early on sets the stage for a lifetime of well-being. We can foster independence and a sense of responsibility in our children by providing age-appropriate responsibilities and allowing them to choose within boundaries. Encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills helps them navigate the world's complexities and make informed decisions.

The quality of the parent-child relationship established in childhood can affect the relationship with our children as adults. It can also influence their relationships with their future partners and children.

Ultimately, how we raise our kids shapes the individuals they become and their contributions to society. By raising responsible, compassionate, and ethical individuals, you contribute positively to the community and the world.

Every parent has a unique approach to raising their children based on their beliefs, cultural background, and circumstances. The key is to provide love, guidance, and support while allowing your children to grow and develop into their best versions.

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