Introspect your self. Which type of mother you are? Are you upto date with the latest trends? Do you think about yourself before your children? Read on and find out if you are a millennium mom?
Stop for a moment and think. Are you a parent of the future? Are you forward in your ways and willing to bridge the generation gap, or are you set in your way of thinking?
1.
Let's start at the very beginning. What are your usual plans for the new year? Do you go for get-togethers where your children are welcome, or do you leave them at home as you boogie late into the night? If you spend the eve with your children, hats off to you. But if you don't, you're only widening the gap between you. As far as possible, try and hang out with couples who have children the same age as your kids, so everyone can have a blast. And, most importantly, you are together.
You could go to the party at your club, where kids are included.
Organize a potluck party in your building, on the terrace or compound, so that parents and children can all have fun together.
Go for a small family vacation to a nearby hill resort.
2.
If your child already has plans, do not spoil his fun by trying to make sure that he includes you or by making him cancel his plans to be with you.
3.
Read The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran, and pay special attention to the parenting section, where he tells you that your children are separate individuals and not mere extensions of you. They have their own wills and lives to lead. Try to understand and accept this, and you'll have greater peace of mind.
4.
The new millenium brings with it a promise of the good old values of honesty, sincerity, loyalty, love and compassion. Emphasize this in the upbringing of the future generation. The best way of course is by example.
5.
Never ever make comparisons between siblings or even between your children and those of others. This will only lead to sibling rivalry and negative emotions. Each child has their own gifts and latent talents and it is up to you to encourage them to flower. Each child has something special to offer, in his or her own way. Learn to recognize it and help create happy, wholesome individuals.
6.
Teach your child to be a responsible citizen, one who will protect the environment. Because if he does not, he may not have an 'environment' to speak of by the time he comes of age.
7.
A 20th century parent is one who had to live on fast foods to keep pace with the fast moving world. The world may not be slowing down next week, but it is time that you did. We are now beginning to realise the benefits of natural, wholesome foods. Junk food has led to various health problems as well as an acceleration in the aging process. Do yourself and your children a world of good by training them to eat the right kinds of food and avoid eating outside too often.
8.
More than anything, make a promise to yourself that you will be your child's best friend. Someone that he or she can talk to in times of trouble, knowing that you will understand. This obviously disqualifies the age-old overreactions and judgmental attitudes. It is time to don the persona of a reliable and loving 21st century parent.
All the very best for the new millennium. Times change and so do people, but we will always be there to help and guide you bring up the children of the 21st century.
