Communication 101 – 10 Crucial Practices
Posted: February 13, 2012 Filed under: Parenting, Thoughts Leave a comment »
I remember a long time ago and being in a conversation that just made me squirm. Oh it was painful. I kept interrupting, interjecting, and trying to explain what was happening. My friend, a close friend, grew annoyed at my interjections. It made her mad. I was confused. I thought she loved me, I thought she cared, I just couldn’t understand why she was beating me up with all these words of complaint.
A few years later I took a communications class sponsored by my employer. It wasn’t a required class, but it was offered as a service to help us be happier, healthier employees. I learned much, but because I wasn’t in a relationship at the time, I didn’t have a way to practice these new found skills. But I did try applying them in other situations – with my Mom, friends, coworkers, etc.
Five Strategies to Help Your Kids Hear You
Posted: October 24, 2011 Filed under: Parenting, Thoughts 1 Comment »
I think my parents would be amazed to hear me say I learned something from them. Oh sure, they taught me to make a bed, tie my shoes, and be polite – but what about the truly big things? I actually learned a few of them. Unfortunately, I was about 25 before they sunk in – and had already failed miserably.
My Dad always said, “Don’t wish your life away.” For instance, don’t wish you were 16 so you could drive; don’t wish you were 21 so you can drink; don’t wish you were 25 so your insurance will be cheaper; and so on…. After a lifetime of wishing I was 16, 18, 21, and 25 – I finally figured out what he meant. He was right!
Five Methods to Lead Children, Without Crushing Them
Posted: October 8, 2011 Filed under: Parenting 2 Comments »
My Darling 6yo Daughter has been doing swimming lessons for the past three years. Her Little Brother didn’t take formal lessons, but I was allowed to get in the water with him and we would splash around. It’s been a good experience. Last year they were both in classes and excelling amongst their peers. They were having fun, we were proud of them and obviously we are amazing parents, tight?
Oh how do the proud fall so far from those lofty dreams? At 4 and 6 years old, they can bathe, get themselves dressed, and even do some chores – they are practically ready to step into the adult world of responsibility. In fact, they are so close, I merely need to hover over them for encouragment and support.
