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Friday, February 10, 2017

Parenting - The Everyday Hero!

The Everyday Heros

What is means to be a parent

We each have our own perspective, experience, triumphs and challenges when it comes to being a parent. I am in my 22nd year as a parent with two children whom I have guided as best I can, and still do. My parenting experience has been with my partner and love, who happens to be my wife, Marie Sierra.

We’re not perfect parents… no such thing. What makes me the happiest as a parent today is that both our 18 and 22 year old talk with us openly about everything, and I mean absolutely everything, no matter how shocking it might be. This open communication has led to some tense moments, but in the end, it has resulted in the four of us having an authentic, meaningful and relevant relationship.

So what does it mean to be a parent? For me it has do with how I help my children think and perceive. For me, it doesn’t have anything to do with telling them what to do. I tried that as a young parent and the result was conflict, and depending on their personality, they might do whatever they want anyway. Even if a child has a laid back personality and tends to follow directions, eventually, they will breakout and decide on their own actions. Better to help them self-regulate and be outstanding critical and creative thinkers.

Take a moment now and ask yourself the question,

“What does it mean to be a hero?”

Doesn’t a hero empower others? Help others? Look for the good in others? Is a role model for others?

Hold on… that sounds a lot like a parent!

And I believe a parent is a hero. The only real question is

“What kind of hero/parent are you choosing to be?”

Here are some simple (not always easy) strategies which have helped Marie and me in our journey through parenthood.

1. Ask your children questions as often as you can instead of making statements. When you do, make sure to be patient enough to listen.

2. Read the book “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman and know your children’s love language preferences. This will improve how you connect with them. Ask your child the question, “How do you know I love you?” Their answer will give you a clue as to how you can improve with how you show your love for them.

3. Read to your child everyday starting when they are in the womb. When you do, and they interrupt you, give them time to say whatever it is they are saying. Listen carefully and find a way to connect what they are saying, to the book or if that isn’t possible, connect their comments to their interests.

One of all-time favorites, "Jazzy in the Jungle" by Lucy Cousins!

Bilingual books that help young learners learn two languages! They also introduce concepts like embracing multiple perspectives, seeing diversity as strength and looking for opportunity in adversity. Co-written with my daughter Sam Sierra-Feldman

www.SamTheAnt.com

The second book in the series.... it's one big story and each book has a perspective twist!

4. Make puppets with your children from old socks and markers. Let your child make their own puppet, without your help or perhaps with a little help if needed. Use the puppet to model different kinds of behaviors. Encourage your child to be the puppets teacher. Use the puppets to breathe deeply (see #7).

The famed puppet "Eddie the Elephant" who is known for helping children and adults learn how to breathe! You can accomplish that and much more with a handmade puppet from a sock.

5. Play Early Classical music for your children like Mozart, Bach, and Vivaldi.

Great early classical compilation CD I produced in 2004 and is still heavily requested. Found online at the above link.

6. Practice basic yoga with your children. There are plenty of free videos on line. Look for something that is at the beginner level and child-friendly. This will set their body and mind up for success early on.