| 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.
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You could go to the party at your club,
where kids are included.
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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. |
