So, I have thought a lot about writing something like this.. and with the help of one of my adult children who is far more computer literate than I, I begin!

There are all sorts of books about parenting and what to do and how to have relationships with your children and how to know what to expect when you're expecting, but I don't know that they address the most burning question of parenthood...how NOT to mess up your children too badly.

I am first of all a parent, second of all an educator and third of all a part time unprofessional counselor..I find myself in the position of having to help guide young parents through the "art" of parenting..and I do believe being a good parent is and art. There are those I am sure who think that parenting is more of a science...like a good study in human behavior, but I think not.

Being a parent in the only 24 hour 7 days a week 365(and even the 1/4) day job in the world. There are not built in vacation days, no matter how long you've been on the job, and the boss doesn't care if your sick, or tired, or just plain fed up! Actually, until children are older, they don't even care too much about you...they just want what they want and want their needs met!

So, having said all that, I throw these thoughts out for anyone who cares to consider:

First, our job as parents is to love UNCONDITIONALLY

Second, be the PARENT

Third, use the scary word "No"

Fourth, do NOT try to create the child in your image

Fifth, help them find THEIR own way

Sixth...and maybe the most important...DO NO HARM!!!!!!!

Well, there you have it...I will talk to each of these points as the blog turns! (o.k. so I am dating myself basing that thought on the old Soap Opera "As the World Turns", but what the heck many of the crazy things that happen to us as parents and families can make good material for any T.V. show...as evidenced by all the ridiculous reality shows !)

Until next time,

Pam