A Parents Manual

Is there a How to Become a Parent course, manual, or book series available? If there is, I will sign up! Please include a demo as well; I am in desperate need of one! I suppose it's still not too late.

Raising a now 13-year-old daughter and our 6 months old son is not a walk in the park. The age difference is a significant adjustment for us. Experience, as they say, is the best teacher.

I may not be the best person to ask about how to become a parent, but I can share what I've learned from being a parent:

Patience. From prenatal to postnatal care, to teaching the alphabet and how to read and count numbers that eventually turned into tons of schoolwork, to constant reminders of household chores and the dos and don'ts of growing up, patience is my constant reminder that I have a child to raise.

Authenticity. I have accepted that everyone will have an opinion about other children, and not everyone will be pleased. That taught me how to set boundaries and say no.

Resilience. A growth mentality is key. I have learned to accept my imperfections. While some things are in our control, often children and their feelings and behaviors can turn a situation upside down. We need to roll with the punches. Practice self-care and always have a positive outlook.

Engaged and easy-going. Making connections with our child’s interests, talents, friends, and school environment while they practice their independence is a lifelong learning to provide them support and advocate for themselves. We should encourage them and teach them how to speak up for themselves. Most importantly, to have fun.

Nice. One of my personal mantras is "Choose to be kind ". This has always been my constant reminder for our children. You can be at the top of your class and be admired for your talents, but how you treat others and how you make them feel is how you will be remembered.

Thoughtful. Being thoughtful does not end with birthdates, gifts, and attending school activities. We need to be mindful about what we say and respect their point of view. It is a constant showing of affection. Giving our children our undivided attention.

I respect different parenting styles. What may work for me and our children may not be applicable to yours. Each child is unique, and as parents, we just need to be flexible and open to adjusting to our child's needs. May we all be successful in raising happy children.