For the past 3 weeks I have been going to a parenting class. It is through the institute and I have to say that I am really enjoying it. I have learned that I am doing a pretty good job, but I have a lot to improve on. –Don’t we all??? Please say yes, because I would feel like a total schmuck if I was the only one struggling.- I feel like I need to write out what I am learning so that I can process it better in this little head of mine. So to get caught up I will start with my first class. I am hoping that with letting my cheers and geers for myself out that I will be able see what I, as a mom and wife, can do better in bringing my little kingdom back to where they belong.
Week 1- She had us ask ourselves what we do well as a parent… I feel like I acknowledge my kids’ differences and encourage them to use and blossom their talents.
What we could do better… Only one?? I am not good at affection
What can I do to make that happen (change)…. I need to allow my kids to climb on my lap a give me hugs and kisses a lot more.
Doctrine changes lives, so I need to focus on teaching my kids doctrine in order to help them learn.
My homework is to CREATE A HOUSE OF ORDER
Create a family mission statement. I am sad to say that I have yet to do this assignment, but I will, I promise.
How well do my kids know that gospel? Good question. We read the scriptures almost every night and then discuss what is going on… I am not sure that this enough. I think I need to do more in teaching them through our own personal experiences.
Another thing that struck me is that the goal in life is not ease. It is to help your kids and yourself feel the spirit and that is not always easy. I am not sure, but I don’t think they can feel the spirit when I am yelling at them to clean up or when they are just watching cartoons. I need to be more active in their lives.
She asked us to read Elder Eyrings talk titled This Day. It is a great talk. You can find it in the April Conference issue of 2007.
She also asked us to get a schedule in our homes and to make a “right of passage” so that the kids will feel like there is something great that they get to do at that specific time. I felt like in this area that I was doing a good job. My kids don’t get friend birthday parties every year. I personally feel like it is a waste of money and kids honestly don’t need to have so much stuff. I do want them to know that there are certain ages that are very special (5, 8, 12, 16) and for those I will celebrate with friends. My kids look forward to when they get that special birthday too. It is great. That is week one in a nut shell. She spoke of a lot of great things, but these are the few I wanted to focus on.
I will post the notes from my other classes the next two days and then start on week 4 on Tuesday- which is when my class is held.
1 month ago
6 who want to talk about it:
good stuff, sounds like something i need to be doing
Great insights. I would love to take a class like that. I'm glad you are sharing what you are doing in it.
I'm sure you are not giving yourself enough credit in the affection department. As mothers we show affection all day long with I love you's, little hugs, smiles and words of encouragment. These acts of affection go a long way with kids. I loved the ideas presented. For me personally I would process these concepts line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little.
Thanks for sharing. I think you and Robert are amazing parents.
This sounds like a great class. Thanks for sharing some of the highlights, I look forward to your next posts!
Marnie and Holly took that class all last year in Nampa. I think they might be taking it again right now. Where is your class held? I would take it for sure if it didn't conflict with Mason's preschool time. Thanks for sharing though! And about that book--the love languages for children....i am reading it right now! I love it. I read the one for spouses/adults a year or two ago (really good by the way!) and now I am reading the one about children. I've learned a lot. I just checked it out at the library.
These are really making me think. I hope you keep them coming each week. I read an article once about how one of the prophets (I cant remember which one) gained a testimony of the temple. He saw his mother ironing her dress and preparing her bag before going to the temple and she always took the opportunity to bear her testimony about how she felt about the temple, how she felt there and how important it was. I dont think I take advantage of the small moments like that to bear my testimony often to my children. I soo wish I could take this class with you.
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