(This is a collaborative post.) Saying that raising children is difficult is an understatement; from time to time, we all feel like things are getting on top of us. Life is tough. Beyond the pressures of everyday and your own individual needs, caring for another can present an abundance of challenges. That said, it is one of the most rewarding experiences any adult can live. This is because watching your children grow into their own individuality instills feelings of deep fulfilment and gratitude. You have likely learned many valuable lessons during your time in this world and you can impart life’s teachings on your children from a young age. Sure, it is important to give your children room to grow on their own but forming fundamental values while they are developing will help them lead more fruitful lives. We have put together a list of lessons that you can start teaching your children to equip them better for their futures. So, grab a morning cup of coffee and tuck into these teachings.
How to eat healthily
Proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in the development of the mind, body, and soul. This valuable lesson is often overlooked by children. We may give in to their cravings for sweets and find it difficult to incorporate foods they are not accustomed to in their diets. While a cheeky takeaway or sweet can be a lovely reward, it should by no means substitute a healthy eating plan. We need to be strong with our decision to include healthy foods in our families diets. We can start by learning more about our health with our children. If you find an interesting article on the benefits of turmeric, for example, you can read this to your child so that they understand how they can benefit from it. Focus on inspiring them to try new, healthy foods rather than shun the “unhealthy” ones. Remind them that, in life, there is always another option and making the tough choice can often lead to great improvement. Also, remember that you will struggle to implement healthier habits into your own life. Don’t scold your children for being reluctant or force them to do something they don’t want to. Just gently guide them towards healthier habits by presenting them with the knowledge needed to make their own decisions about it. You can start browsing fantastic articles about health and your family right here on Mommy Authority. Another great idea is to include your children in meal preparation. This is an exciting way to bond with them while teaching them essential cooking skills.
How to practice honesty
This is a tricky lesson as honesty is not exactly black or white. White lies, for example, may not seem as harmful as others. That said, our children need to understand the consequences of lying. This does not mean that you should raise your voice whenever they go behind your back. They will struggle to understand what exactly they have done wrong if you haven’t shown them by virtue of action. You can start by running your children through a variety of scenarios. This may come in the form of a short story or animation movie. These pieces of media play a powerful role in shaping the minds of the youth and they can teach lessons about honesty. Here is a great list of movies that you can watch with your kids. Otherwise, you can show your children honesty yourself. Be sure to live by your word as you expect your child to do so. Children, after all, learn a great deal from witnessing adults.
How to love learning
Education is enriching and its importance cannot be argued. However, many young children are so reluctant to learn. This could be because that they feel lessons are boring or, in more drastic scenarios, they could be being bullied at school. It is important to provide an environment that is conducive to creativity for the development of a child. Whether this means creating an arts space in your home or signing your kid up to an innovative schooling system, you can teach them to love learning by giving them the tools to enjoy themselves. The Japanese, for example, have created a schooling system for young children that focuses on instilling manners and creativity. While these schooling systems may not be so accessible, some of the practices can be implemented in your own home. Check out this fantastic video to learn more.
These are just a few of the many valuable lessons that you can teach your children. There is no foolproof method to do so. It is going to take a lot of trial and error to find out what works best for you and your family. That said, guiding your children towards healthier habits, teaching them the importance of honesty, and creating an inspiring learning environment for them are great places to start.
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Helen
Helen
Helen is a mum to two, social media consultant, and website editor; and this site is (we think) the only Social Enterprise parenting magazine!Since giving up being a business analyst when juggling travel, work and kids proved too complicated, she founded KiddyCharts so she could be with her kids, and use those grey cells at the same time.KiddyCharts has reach of over 1.1million across social and the site. The blog works with big family brands (including travel) to help promote their services, as well as offering free resources to parents of kids under 10.It gives 51%+ profits to Reverence for Life, who fund a number of important initiatives in Africa, including bringing running water and basic equipment to a school in Tanzania.Helen has worked as a digital marketing consultant (IDM qualified) with various organisations, including Channel Mum, Truprint, Talk to Mums, and Micro Scooters. She loves to be creative in the brand campaigns she works on.Get in touch TODAY!