Grandy has four children and seven grandchildren. He grew up with two sisters and offers some bits of wisdom below:
Maintain Balance
Grandy feels it's important to balance the discipline and love you have for your children. They need both. It's also important to know your kids friends and reassure your children that you are there for them.
Respect Possessions
He would advise parents of today to teach their children to respect what they have. Show them how to take care of their things, like not leaving toys out on the grass overnight. When they are old enough, perhaps taking them to a soup kitchen could reinforce a gratitude for the gifts, both material and otherwise, that the children have. It's important to teach kids the value of money and how to care for it. Perhaps giving a small allowance for key chores.
Limit Technology
Don't let kids spend too much time on devices. When he was little Grandy spent so much more time outside than kids of today. This reminds me of the book "Last Child in the Woods," which expounds on this idea.
Best Memory
Grandy's best memories are of the kids accomplishments; their little league championships and running races.
Pray
Grandy also encourages parents of today to keep saying their prayers. You never know what's to come and you need strength and faith to get through the ups and downs.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Monday, March 17, 2014
Interview #1: Nanny
Nanny has four children and seven grandchildren. She is a fun-loving grandma and used to teach pre-school, so she has lots of sage wisdom to share. Here's her best advice:
Communication
Always keep the lines of communication open. Always ask questions like, "Is there anything on your mind?" Tell them, "You can always talk to Mom and Dad. We love you, we want to help you and we will always listen and give you the best advice we can." At some time your kids will be hurt. The best thing you can do is be there for them and let them know that.
Love
Always give your kids a ton of attention, love, hugs, kisses and listen to them. Take the time away from the dishes and things that feel like they need to get done, they will still be there. Sit and talk with your kids, face to face.
Show Restraint
Kids today have a lot. When Nanny was a little girl, all she had was a doll, a tricycle and a pair of roller skates. She really appreciated each gift and toy. It's challenging today, but try to limit what the kids get for when they have too much they can take it for granted.
Learn From Your Parents
Nanny's mom was strict and regimented. She didn't want to be exactly like her mom in terms of being overly critical, but still it's important to set limits and guide your children about what is acceptable behavior.
Communication
Always keep the lines of communication open. Always ask questions like, "Is there anything on your mind?" Tell them, "You can always talk to Mom and Dad. We love you, we want to help you and we will always listen and give you the best advice we can." At some time your kids will be hurt. The best thing you can do is be there for them and let them know that.
Love
Always give your kids a ton of attention, love, hugs, kisses and listen to them. Take the time away from the dishes and things that feel like they need to get done, they will still be there. Sit and talk with your kids, face to face.
Show Restraint
Kids today have a lot. When Nanny was a little girl, all she had was a doll, a tricycle and a pair of roller skates. She really appreciated each gift and toy. It's challenging today, but try to limit what the kids get for when they have too much they can take it for granted.
Learn From Your Parents
Nanny's mom was strict and regimented. She didn't want to be exactly like her mom in terms of being overly critical, but still it's important to set limits and guide your children about what is acceptable behavior.
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