Whether we want to admit it or not, our instant-gratification culture is shaping our children, both now and for the long-term. America’s families have been burdened with numerous problems, such as incredible debt, broken relationships, and a disconnected younger generation plagued by serious issues. Teen pregnancy, drug use and even suicide are issues that may face our children someday. How can we change this?
Turn it Inside Out
The Inside Out philosophy encompasses several important ideas and strategies that can help you parent in today’s changing world. First and foremost, you need to have the commitment and confidence to look inside yourself as a person and parent. It’s important to recognize that you are the driver of the bus on your life’s journey. Once you embrace this concept, you will stop going along for the ride, and so will your kids. So, let’s get started.
Who’s Vision is it Anyway?
First, create a home environment that kids can rely on. What does that mean? Well, your kids should know what your family is all about. What is your family culture? What’s important, acceptable, or unacceptable in your family? Just think how your family might be different if more time was spent on sharing your vision instead of watching television. Keep in mind that while we should teach acceptance of others as different and unique, your family culture is how you’ve decided to raise your kids, so stick to it! By creating that strong family unit, you will give kids something to go back to and hold on to when times get tough. And as kids are exposed to the world around them, they will refer back to vision that you gave them.
What’s in your Toolbox?
Giving kids the tools to make good decisions and understand the consequences of those choices is one of the most important things that we can do as parents. As toddlers, kids start to learn about right and wrong. Modeling is a key way that we all learn, especially children. So, let kids see your decision making process. Let them be included in family decisions, pointing out the various consequences of the different choices that could be made.
Believe it or Not
Recent research counters the commonly held theory that teenagers don’t think before they act. Instead, researchers found that teens review their options and the consequences, however they often see the benefits of their choice as outweighing a potential negative consequence. What does this mean for you as a parent? It means that we need to create an open dialogue with our kids as well as opportunities to role play such moments. It’s not enough to tell kids not to do something. Rather, kids need to experience it first hand. Naturally occurring consequences are the best teachers. If I choose to wear an outfit that doesn’t match, I may get made fun of and will therefore take more time picking out my clothes. Help kids think these choices through and discuss the various paths that they might go down with each one.
Give your Kids a Gift
Finally, help each of your children to discover the things that they are passionate about. Kids’ confidence will soar as they learn and grow with their passion. There is no need to be a superstar at anything, however loving what you do is a lesson well learned at a young age. Then, you can encourage your child to give back to others by sharing their gift. Can they sing or read to elderly people? Can they walk a dog for a homebound neighbor? Can they babysit for a single mom? Giving back to others is one sure way to feel confident and you are never to young to start making the world a better place. Not only will your child start looking Inside themselves for the answers, but others will start looking up to them as well.
Michele Regan has been in the field of child and parent education for 16 years. Her graduate studies in the field of Special Education generated her interest in brain research and human potential. She offers speaking events on a variety of topics, such as parenting and education, all with a focus on the Inside Out philosophy. Known for interactive, real-life approach, Ms. Regan’s events are fun and engaging, while the strategies she presents will be easily applied by the participants. Her events and informational products are always timely as she is constantly reviewing current research and incorporating that into her hands-on approach.
Ms. Regan is also the founder of [http://www.TheGoodLifeToday.net] – a website for parents and those that care for children. Her FREE weekly newsletter Positive Parenting is the perfect way for busy parents to get some inspirational insight and practical tips to make their lives at home easier. Watch for upcoming teleseminars and other products that will help parents incorporate the Inside Out philosophy into their daily lives.
Tags: living from the inside out, media and societal influences, positive parenting