Primary Educator

12 May Primary Educator

We often hear it stated that the parents are the primary educators of their children. What does this mean to you? Why? How? In what capacity?

You and your spouse are the most important people in your children’s lives. You more than anyone else will make a permanent mark, a tremendous impact on the future of your children. From the moment they are born, you are there. They feel secure in your presence. They want to be around you.  Even before they can walk and talk, they are watching your example, your words, your behavior. They want to attach to you, be with you and take you as their model of living. By being in your presence, they are learning about your opinions, your attitudes, your values and your mannerisms.  Cherish the time together and pour your life into theirs.

No other community is more or as qualified as parents in raising children. Sometimes we feel anyone else could do a better job. This is not true. You may lack training, experience and patience, but you love your children more than anyone else. You will grow into your role if you give yourself the time and opportunity. You are willing to sacrifice everything for your children. They are part of you, your heart walking around on the outside of you. You know them better than anyone else – their talents, their fears, their dreams, their character. You are in the most strategic location in their lives to guide them to greatness.  We all go through moments where we question our effectiveness and worth as a parent. We get exhausted, fail to see immediate results and pass through many trials.  However, reject all pessimism and feelings of inadequacy. You are a good mom, and you can be better. You are irreplaceable. No one else – clergy, teachers or friends can influence the development of values as can a parent. By action or omission your child learns far more from you than from anyone else because of your loving relationship. It is a relationship that is intimate, intense, continuous and fixed. Your child will always be your son or daughter, no matter what their age. You are the most important person in your child’s life.  Take the time, make the time. Don’t let your other responsibilities dilute the concentrated impact you can have.

Your children learn so much from you. Your home is their first experience of society on a very small scale. Your family really is the basic and most fundamental cell of society. When families are strong, society is strong. You have an awesome power to help your children become amazing adults who have great character, strong values and deep faith. Your children are formed by the example you give now.  Aim high. Strive to be a better person each day. It’s not about being a perfect mom. It’s all about the love you put into it.  Love your children a lot. Give them your time. Invest your best self in their upbringing, not the leftovers. Realize that building a strong marriage must be your first priority. It will teach your kids so much about life, love, relationship, self-giving, generosity, commitment, forgiveness etc. We teach primarily by our example. By providing a loving, stable, harmonious home atmosphere, we help lay a deep solid foundation for the child’s personality. History is written by ordinary people fulfilling their responsibilities in ordinary situations. Be faithful to your efforts to raise your family as best you can. Stay focused and watch what happens. The history you are writing today will have an amazing impact on the legacy you leave behind tomorrow.

BOOKS WORTH READING:

First Time Mom  by Dr. Kevin Leman
Much encouragement from new moms trying to navigate the challenges of becoming a mom. Practical, insightful and inspiring.

Mom You’re Incredible and The Eternal Mark of a Mom By Linda Weber
A fantastic affirming read on the incredible worth of a mom. I found this book an amazing read after having my third child. Very uplifting, inspiring and practical.

The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose, and Sanity
By Meg Meeker
With twenty-five years’ experience as a practicing pediatrician and counselor, Dr. Meeker incorporates clinical data and her own experience raising four children to show why mothers suffer from the rising pressure to excel and she provides 10 positive habits for mothers who want to be healthy, happy, and fulfilled.

12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know by Michele Borba
An excellent read for moms at all stages of mothering filled with much wisdom and practical insights. A gem of a book and a great gift.

In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms by Dr. Laura Schlessinger
This book may very well be at your local library. Dr. Laura is dead on for all her statements regarding the challenges, worth and contribution stay-at-home moms make to their families and society. She offers sound advice on how to transition to and enjoy this incredible decision.

One Beautiful Dream by Jennifer Fulwiler
A hilarious page turner about the author’s journey from career to having six children within a short time. Inspiring, practical and very enjoyable. Well worth the read! Helps busy moms with many children appreciate the grandeur of their life.

Woman First: Family Always by Kathryn Sansone
Real life wisdom from a mom of 10 regarding self, marriage and family. A great read.

ARTICLES:

Toughest Job in the World
FAMILY – A TREASURE by Nicole Scheidl
MISSION POSSIBLE: Putting Family First by Barbara Padolina
TAKE THE TIME by Maria Dooley
FORTITUDE by Nicole Scheidl
REFLECTIONS OF A MOTHER by Keri Kerby
INVISIBLE by Nicole Johnson
FROM ONE MOM TO ANOTHER by Natasha Legere
HAPPINESS IN THE HOME BEGINS WITH ORDER by Mary Goyens
ONE FLAW IN WOMEN
YOU ARE SUPER MOM by Melinda Beneteau
Before I Was A Mom
JUST A MOM??
WHY WOMEN CRY
MOTHERS
REASONS I OWE MY MOTHER
WHAT IS BEING A MOM – REALLY?