Kids N Character
The latest from Amilya.com Life Expert - Kathleen Partak
My mom was a stickler for manners. I grew up with all the normal mom reminders;
“Don’t chew with your mouth open.”
“Ah, ah, ah…keep your elbows off the table.”
“What do you say? (Please or Thank you.)”
All these reminders helped to shape my character as a person. Now you may be thinking that manners and character are two different things and I agree with you. The point I am making is that regardless of how you feel about Nature versus Nurture, I believe a child’s character can be shaped and guided with positive reinforcement.
I am the mom of a strong-willed and very smart six year old little boy. My mom told me many times as I was growing up, “I hope you have a child just like you someday!” I know now that those moments came at points of exhaustion and exasperation because I can tell you today, my mom got her wish! It makes me smile when I think of that today, but not in the moments when my son is challenging my every answer. If he weren’t challenging me, maybe I wouldn’t be so aware that he needs to learn rules, boundaries, and consequences.
It’s critically important that we help our kids develop a strong sense of self and character. They need to know right from wrong and understand that we all make the right choice because it makes us feel good, not because there is a reward on the line. I am going to be here to share with you my experiences with my son and even some other wonderful little ones I have in my life. I’m looking forward to hearing what you think and how you feel about the way I handle my situations, and maybe I can share some things with you about yours. I know the stories I have are the same ones you have had or will have so it will be fun to smile and know we’re all in this together…and together we can raise kids who will be upstanding, productive citizens as they grow up and head out on their own.
Kathy Partak,
Mom to Mason, 6
About Kathleen Partak
Kathleen Partak has had many interesting jobs and careers, but none she’s loved as much as storytelling and writing. Being an avid reader of motivational, self-help, and short-story books, a career in writing seemed to be the natural progression. Her weekly email column, the Monday Motivator, began iin 1999. She has penned this personal column every single Monday since then with the exception of one time—her husband made a guest appearance when Kathy gave birth to their son on a Monday.
In addition to her weekly column, Kathy has contributed to many Chicken Soup for the Soul books, including Chicken Soup for the Mother and Son’s Soul, New Mom’s Soul, Working Mom’s Soul, Love Stories,and My Resolutions. Kathleen lives with her husband Dave, son Mason, their dog Mr. Riley and cat Inca in Auburn, California.
You can chat with Kathy on Twitter @kdpartak and find more ideas at her Intentional Winning blog.
