Parenting 101

This morning as I read Coach Dungy's Chapter on "Fatherhood" it made me realize how fortunate that I am to have great parents. From my short experience so far as a parent, and my 16 years of teaching and coaching high school and middle school students- it is more clear to me each and everyday how important parenting is! I by no means claim to be a perfect parent, but here are some of my parenting thoughts. First of all we must be PRESENT in our kids lives. When I was growing up my dad was very busy with work as an Athletic Director. His job took up a lot of time, and energy. Even though it was hard, he always found a way to include us. It may have meant working the concession stand, keeping the scoreboard, or just simply hanging out at the gym watching a game. Dad also made a point to never miss one of our games or important activities. These are small examples that have a huge impact! Second- HOW YOU RESPOND IS IMPORTANT- this could be through words, actions, or no action at all. Here is a question that Coach Dungy posed- How do you speak to your children? I believe that it is important to remember that your responses mean everything to your kids. Your actions can improve confidence, they can lift a spirit, or they can provide instruction and discipline. One of the things I appreciate about my Dad is his ability to provide comfort and honest advice. I always know that if something is bothering me that I can confide in him! I don't always like his answers, but I have learned that he has the best interests for me in mind. Another thing I have learned in this area with my own kids is that WHEN YOU RESPOND IS IMPORTANT- for example if your son or daughter makes a huge mistake, plays poorly in a game, or scores poorly on a Math test- allow them some time to think about the outcome before you start ranting and raving. Allow them to grow with guided assistance- focus on how they can improve! Next- YOUR KIDS ARE ALWAYS WATCHING YOU- Coach Dungy refers to Country singer Rodney Atkins song "Watching You". I think the words to the song sum it up clearly. He said, "I've been a-watching you, Dad, ain't that cool? I'm your buckaroo, I wanna be like you... I wanna do everything you do So I've been watching you." Lastly- MAKE MEMORIES with your kids. We only have so many opportunities with our children. Coach Dungy shared his experience of losing his son in 2005. I cannot imagine having to go through that as a parent. Don't have any regrets about the time made available to you! Some of my favorite memories as a kid was going canoeing with friends, family vacations, and playing wiffle ball in the backyard! What will your kids say are their favorite memories?