Top Ten Things To Teach Our Children

Top Ten Things To Teach Our Children-Great article from the National Fatherhood Institute


So, what important things do you need to teach your kids? Read on for our top ten list of things to teach your son - and your daughter.
For Sons

1. Work hard, even when no one is watching. The definition of integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
   
2. Honesty actually is the best policy. Teach your son the value of honesty from an early age.
   
3. Have a good handshake. Inspire confidence in your son. Encourage him to look people in the eye when he talks to them and to approach every situation with confidence (no pride, but confidence).
   
4. Always treat women with respect. This is an area where your son will do as you do, more so than listen to what you say. It is essential that you talk to him explicitly about what it means to respect women - starting with his mothers and sisters - and also show him in your actions and the way you treat his mother.
5. Serve your community. So often, the decisions we make affect so many other people. Talk to your son about how his decisions and actions affect others, and serve with him. Find a local shelter or soup kitchen, give to a clothing drive - or let him pick how he wants to serve. It is never to early to start volunteering together.
   
6. Don't be afraid of or ignore emotions. So often, it seems that manhood today is associated with "strong and silent." However, your son will be happier and healthier if he learns to acknowledge his emotions and work through them. Encourage your son to talk to you about how he feels about certain situations. Who knows - it could be good for your emotions, too!
   
7. Be able to cook and clean for yourself. Your son will probably live on his own for at least a few years. Don't let him depend on mom for everything. Even if his culinary skills stop at scrambled eggs, it is important that he learn to take care of himself.
   
8. Be smart about the risks you take. Boys tend to be natural risk-takers, which can be good, but these tendencies also need to be guided. Encourage adventure while teaching your son to think through his decisions.
9. Know your weaknesses. Today's culture is filled with temptations and distractions - particularly for young men. Talk to your son about the importance of knowing yourself well enough to know your weaknesses - and how to avoid and walk away from risky situations.
   
10. Don't take your blessings for granted. Remind your son how fortunate he is. It's easy to lose sight of our blessings, and it is a good reminder for all of us.
    

For Daughters

1. Work hard, even when no one is watching. The definition of integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
   
2. Honesty actually is the best policy. Teach your daughter the value of honesty from an early age.
   
3. Modesty isn't an old fashioned ideal. You can be modest and still be trendy. Emphasize that there is nothing wrong with "leaving something to the imagination."
   
4. Protect your heart. Encourage your daughter to proceed cautiously in dating relationships.
5. Serve your community. So often, the decisions we make affect so many other people. Talk to your daughter about how her decisions and actions affect others, and serve with her. Find a local shelter or soup kitchen, give to a clothing drive - or let her pick how she wants to serve. It is never to early to start volunteering together.
   
6. Focus on the beauty on the inside. Our culture puts so much focus on outer beauty and it is difficult for girls to develop positive body images. Affirm your daughter's beauty - inside and out - and encourage her to focus on true beauty: inner beauty.
   
7. Don't be afraid to take risks. Encourage your daughter to pursue her dreams and take (reasonable) risks to advance her learning, her career, and provide enriching learning experiences.
   
8. Gossip is dangerous. Girls are known to gossip. Deal with this habit early on and talk to your daughter about how destructive gossip can be. And, make sure you and mom aren't gossipping, either.
9. Don't be afraid to walk into a room alone. This is all about inspiring confidence in your daughter. Teach her to have a firm handshake, look people in the eye when she talks to them, and to be able to be confident even if she's not surrounded by her three giggilng best friends.
10. Don't take your blessings for granted. Remind your daughter how fortunate she is. It's easy to lose sight of our blessings, and it is a good reminder for all of us.
    

Yes, some things overlap, and some things that you teach your son, you should also teach your daughter - and vice versa. It's important to know your kids' personalities so you can know what they need to learn and how they need to grow.