Do not let your children take the easy way out of challenges

African Proverb, Do not let your children take the easy way out of challenges.

This Ethiopian African proverb reflects the same meaning as

Instruction in youth is like engraving in stone. 

These two African proverbs teach sometimes it is hard to balance what is best for children with what makes them happy in the long run.

Instruction in youth is like engraving in stone.

Be a beacon of light in a child’s life

Children need leading in the right direction.

One of the most important teaching skills you can do for your kids is to set a good example for them to follow. They learn from seeing how you treat them, overhearing your interactions with others and observing what you do in different situations throughout the day.

If you want your children to exhibit values like honesty, self-respect and compassion, then you need to show these qualities yourself. All the teaching in the world can be undone if your children watch you behave in ways that contradict what you have said.

Even if you are not always the best example, you can use that to tell your children, “Well, I shouldn’t have gotten so upset when that other driver took my parking space. Yes, it might sound a little awkward at first to have these kinds of conversations. However, the more you do it, the more natural it becomes.

Most of us can look back at our past and think of many experiences that taught us some valuable lessons. Be willing to share some of those stories with your children, especially those that illustrate how you made choices that were consistent with good values. Above all else, show true love and affection to your kids by telling them you love them every day with hugs and kisses.

Did you know?

During early childhood it is important that children have opportunities to lead learning.