Having been a parent educator and a PBS consultant for Ready to Learn for many years, I have had the unique opportunity to work with Head Start families, Child Care Providers, and parents as well as schools, organizations, and teachers all over the world just like you.

So often we do unconscious parenting, just getting through the day without really thinking or planning for what we want to teach our children. It is not that we don't love our family; it is just that the love sometimes gets lost in translation through poor communications or unskillful methods.

Traditions and rituals within the family make everyone feel more united
and a part of the group. Many participants in parenting classes say, "Oh, we don't really have any traditions." But when we start brainstorming, it is amazing how many simple acts and events have been repeated in the same way, and they are now anticipated by family members.

Childhood is about growing into a respectful, contributing member of society. It is an opportunity to practice social and life skills that will be necessary out in the real world. We need to prepare them to be as independent as possible, because at some time there will not be a loving Mom to solve problems and they will have to assume personal responsibility..

If you came from a family where you were not allowed to express your true feelings, you may not even be aware of the range of feelings that are normal and experienced every day. In communication with your family you may find yourself overusing the old stand by's of "Mad, Sad and Happy."