Scientists, counselors and religious teachings tell us that how a child is raised makes a difference in what happens in life, with a familiar quote that the way a twig is bent, it grows.  No more is that demonstrated by Tanya Sturman and her daughter, Veronica.
 
Veronica was born with a deformed arm and hand, in a stump.  But that didn't keep her mother from big dreams for her daughter.  Veronica was encouraged to use her talent in a variety of ways.  She was told there was nothing she couldn't do and couldn't do well.  For Tanya Sturman, it was important to give her child something she could hold onto for life.

Scientists have affirmed through current studies and ongoing research that good parenting helps protect children when they go through the difficult periods of life, such as adolescence.   These early years of bonding can make a difference during stressful times and throughout life. 

Carol Brian is a counselor and administrator of programs for young children throughout much of Natchitoches and Sabine Parishes and knows the Sturmans well.  She says, "There are plenty of studies that show how valuable parenting is in the development of children.  Even the mother who is desperately poor and lacks material things to give a child, can give instead the gift of believing, that is believing in themselves."            Book with illustrations by Veronica Sturman

Brian points to the Sturmans as examples of good parenting and the result of it and continues, "A mother like Tanya gives great gifts to her child by encouraging creativity.  The child then focuses on assets, not limitations, and believes she can do anything, as in the case of the daughter, Veronica.  Veronica can now write books and illustrate them.  She also sells them at the local bookstore.  What a gift is this for the child, to know that she is special, not because of a disability but because of a talent."   Tanya Sturman, shown here at a reading exhibit with her daughter's work

In working with children and their families Brian focuses on teaching parents and educators to focus on the values of a child, what makes them unique in positive ways.  This is a great way to develop ego strength, Brian tells them.  She affirmed what science has said for years, "You can bring up a child in positive ways; and even if that child gets into trouble, the chances are he or she will return to the best that is in them.  Good parenting is protection for children.  In the case of the Sturmans, both the parent and the child benefit from the interaction they have and the end result, the books Veronica produces, that can last a lifetime and represent a lifetime of wonderful things for both of them."

In emphasizing the value of parenting beyond material things, Brian states, "People wonder how children can come from deprivation and hardship, the kind that happens after disasters such as occurred in New Orleans and Haiti.  Children recover quickly when they have love and support and the internal strength that comes from good parenting.  You find that doll, that toy, that thing that seemed important might be valuable for the moment, but in the life of children, their lasting inheritance comes from how they are taught."        Carol Brian is shown here with a mule she brought to show children at a reading fair at the Week of the Young Child in Natchitoches, Louisiana

"So if you want to give children a great inheritance, teach them values, to value themselves, and to look beyond their limitations," Brian continued.  "Twigs will grow the way they are bent, and in the case of the Sturmans, you can see Veronica will be a great tree."