This is a continuing article--as we will be adding input from variety of people...
Life is at such a fast pace today. Things that were supoosed to make our lives easier and give us more quality time (like computers and internet) have done the opposite for many. Extra-curricular activities that we thought would make for better, more well-rounded children have instead made for families who don't have time to talk to each other and led to more separation vs closeness. More families have children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder which can turn daily tasks into mountains. What can families do and how much worse is it-- that today more families have just one parent which makes the days of raising children harder than ever?
Well, here are a few tips to consider:
1. Control what you can:
Shows They Watch--What enters a child's mind in your home is under your control. Take time to notice the kids shows they are watching. Does it show children respecting adults or being smart mouthed in a funny way? A popular show with teen twins showed a 5 or 6 yr old being smart to their caretaker and everyone laughs--that is a signal the writings for this show is not worthwhile. Don't allow it to be watched and others like it and you will be amazed at what it does for your child. Garbage in-garbage out. You do have control if you use it.
Video Games--Find out about the games before you get them. Go to Review4Parents and use this Christian perspective resource(use their past reviews and build on it yourself). Also visit www.esrb.org/about/resource.jsp to learn (f you don't know) howto set parental controls on video game players.
2. Control what they are taking in:
More and more children are being diagnosed with ADHD. Here are some helpful tips--study this from CBN (700 Club) from experts. There are products out there that can help naturally without the horrible side effects. Do your child a favor if already on med and look up the side-effects as more often than not--it is making for a very confused, sad child. Research some of the naturals such as Nordic Naturals and you may be very happily surprised at the results.
What they eat does affect them so be careful on the sugars--if after eating a lot of cookies and candies your kids act up --then consider decreasing some of your misery by taking control of what they eat and moderate their sugar content. Give them vitamins to help them stay well and strong--of course study the right brands to make sure of the quality.
3. Do your part and pray for them. The Bible is your best resource--read it to them. Tell them about the stories in there that will help them become better people from the lessons that are throughout that book. The Word of God is powerful and will give you hope. Just look at the Stormie O'martian books such as Power of a Praying Parent, Power of a Praying Wife etc. They seem like simple enough books but because it's main focus is God Word -- indeed you will find it a very incredible tool in helping your family as there is no such thing as perfect moms or dads or families--but praying families see God's handiwork in their lives everyday. Just look at the examples of our founding fathers like George Washington, Ben Franklin and John Adams etc... This nation's birth is proof indeed God answers prayers!
Benjamin Franklin:
I see of this truth- that God Governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the sacred writings, that "except the Lord build the House they labour in vain that build it." I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without his concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better, than the Builders of Babel...
I therefore beg leave to move- henceforth prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven, and its blessings on our deliberations, be held in this Assembly every morning before we proceed to business...