February 2010
Over 50 years of Early Childhood Education - Founded 1956
February - Director’s Note
“I love you when you’re happy, I love you when you cry
I love you when you’re silly, Or when you’re feeling shy
I love you in the daytime, I love you through the night
I love you when you make mistakes, or when you get it right
I love you when you’re working, I love you when you play
Oh, I love you forever, And I love you today “
Jack Hartmann
Few parents need encouragement to tell their child "I love you." I can tell you it’s a sad, sad day when your child decides they are “too old” for a public hug and kiss from Mom. The month of February brings chocolate candy, boxes of character-themed valentines, and all things heart-shaped. As parents, Valentine's Day gives us the opportunity to remind ourselves that loving our kids, (even when we are stretched to our limits) necessitates resolve, patience, and at times altering our approach:
Live in their Moment
To truly feel love, we all need time together and attentive communication. Whether watching their soccer game or sharing a book with your child, enter and honor your child's world. Instead of talking first, let your child direct the conversation. Reflect back what you hear, don’t hurry. Quiet times allow your child to find the words to express themselves.
Separate the Child from the Behavior
One of the biggest challenges to loving our kids occurs when setting limits. In these situations, it is often helpful to calmly, but firmly tell your child that their behavior is not acceptable. Good parenting involves setting limits, redirecting, and giving choices. Likewise, acknowledge their good behavior. Be very specific in your compliments and look for ways to praise your child's growing self control and newly acquired skills.
Outside the Box
Rather than saying no right away to your child's request, consider these questions: Is it unsafe? Immoral? Illegal? Developmentally inappropriate? Beyond your budget? Maybe it's time to say yes, and allow your child experience a parent who can see the world through their eyes. It might even be fun…..to let go.
There is no greater gift than unconditional love... to accept each child for who they are. So give your child this gift today, and every day!
Lyndel Doran
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t h e c r e a t i v e s c h o o l
Over 50 years of educating young children in North Dallas
Founded 1956
"you can never have enough nature."--Thoreau
The Creative School
10066 Marsh Lane
Dallas, Texas 75229
214.352.0732 | e-mail pam@whumc.com
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