Some Principles for Parenting

Definition of Success: A parent may only claim success when their child has become a productive adult with strong self-esteem.  An adult who contributes value to the society of which he or she is a member.

Proven Techniques

1. Err on the side of raising an adult instead of child.  Choose words, lessons and behaviors, which are adult-oriented.

2. Become an omnipresent teacher.  Lessons abound.  In the grocery store, on the ballfield, in the home.  Not just the classroom.  Learn how to recognize teachable moments.  Teach by asking. “What did you just see?  What did it mean?”  Reinforce your lessons by summarizing them in writing and proving your child.

3. Indulge true passion, pretty much regardless of nature.  Invest and encourage to develop but do so with clear expectations.  Set quantifiable goals.  Ensure the child invests commensurate appropriate time and talent.  When the light goes out, turn the page.

4. Absent true passion, educate and guide the child toward careers that:

•  Augur a highly productive future (demand outstrips supply and rewards are exceptional) and

• Rewards aptitudes, which the child demonstrates and

• Comprises activities that the child enjoys.  Earning high rewards (i.e. making damn good money) does not preclude self-satisfaction or happiness.

1. Teach and insist upon politeness from the earliest age.  Few things influence adults more positively than please and thank you from a child.  Use them often.

2. Ensure your child understands the concepts of expectations and rewards as they pertain to behavior and motivation.  Human beings tend to act in accordance with needs.  When the child enthuses about something someone has or something your child craves, explain what it took to earn that reward.

3. Give the child a good understanding of math.  Math imbues logic, common sense and reasoning.  Teach it early.

4. The same with money.  Where it comes from, how it’s used, how to build wealth, the power of compounding.

5. Teach your child about God.  Go to church regularly.

6. Teach your child history, morals, ethics, and values.  Don’t leave it to the school.  Too risky these days.

7. The importance of a two-parent family cannot be underestimated.  Both parents must make that happen.  If it is not possible, don’t bring a child into this world.