Intentional Parenting

This topic is a request from one of my readers. This took some time for me to sit and really think on this before writing. My children are all grown, and I can relate in some instances, but I also know times have changed and we are living in such unpresented times.

Why not a guidebook on how to parent. Well, the only guidebook I would recommend after my years of parenting would be the bible! Parenting is one of those remarkable life experiences that often presents challenges without clear-cut solutions. Every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. But along the way, there are plenty of resources, advice, and support networks available to help navigate the journey. Ultimately, it's about learning, adapting, and doing your best to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted kids. I am grateful that at the age of eight my daughter Jocelyn spoke into my life and told me "Mom we don't look for guidance and support or better said God only when we face trouble." It's a lifestyle. I will never forget that day. Proverbs 22:6

The idea of instilling the fear of the Lord in our children is what helped our home. For many people, faith is a significant aspect of their lives, and they see it as a valuable tool for guiding their children's moral and ethical development. The fear of the Lord is not so much about instilling terror, but rather about cultivating reverence, respect, and awe for a higher power. It can serve as a foundation for teaching values such as honesty, compassion, humility, and accountability. As a parent I believe that by imparting a sense of divine accountability, my children are more likely to make choices that align with the will of God in their lives.

Additionally, sharing with them provided structure and discipline in their lives. I believe that by teaching my children about the consequences of their actions in the context of their faith can help them develop a strong moral compass and that leads to make better decisions.

However, it's essential to approach this idea with sensitivity and balance. Using fear as a primary parenting tool can have negative consequences, such as fostering feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety in children. It's crucial to combine teachings about the fear of the Lord with love, compassion, and understanding, emphasizing the importance of relationship and grace within the family dynamic. Ultimately, every parent's approach to instilling values and beliefs in their children will vary based on their cultural, religious, and personal beliefs.

What's most important is creating a nurturing environment where children feel loved, supported, and encouraged to grow into their best selves.

That's my version on Intentional Parenting

Janelle

INTENTIONAL PARENTING WORKSHEET

• Describe your child. (Not what He / She can do but who He / She Is.)

"My Child is......"

• What are your child's strengths? (always validate those strengths)

• What are your child's weaknesses? (try to understand the struggle and don't call your child out on this look for a way to help He / She)

• What makes your child come alive? (Look for those signs things that just brighten your child's day and make every effort to make time for this and share with your child the WHY..."We love to see you this way as it makes us happy to know your happy"

• What character traits does your child need to further develop? (Help your child build on His / Her character after all you are the teacher the example so be intentional)