http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for intentional parenting Copyright 2008 Tue, 02 Dec 2008 03:05:00 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/intentional+parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/intentional-parenting-requires-courage-vision-and-accountability http://www.artwoo.com/article/intentional-parenting-requires-courage-vision-and-accountability#comments Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:32:02 +0000 intentional parentingperfect parentingparentsdauntingnecessarilycontemplatingread research http://www.artwoo.com/article/intentional-parenting-requires-courage-vision-and-accountability parents may not be aware of what it takes to be an intentional parent. Of course, parenting is an ongoing process that teaches parents new things each day and leaves much more that needs to be learnt before they become a good parent. With their busy schedules, it is hard enough for them to be a good parent and intentional parenting may seem quite daunting and unattainable at first.

Not Necessarily Perfect Parenting

Intentional parenting may not be perfect parenting; instead, it refers to a parent that has mentally determined that some action or result related to parenting need to be performed. In other words, the intentional parent is an "on purpose" parent. Parents often tend to react to their children rather than have a plan that they have prepared in advance. This is a tendency that parents readily acknowledge, but do little about.

Some reasons that contribute to intentional parenting being difficult to achieve are vision, know-how and accountability. Furthermore, the biggest obstacle to intentional parenting begins in the mind -- there may not be enough time for contemplating what hangs in the balance. In other words, parents often fail to realize what can be gained and what is lost if they do not invest in their children through intentional parenting.

Lack of know-how is another challenge facing parents. Parents will often be at a loss to visualize what intentional parenting looks and feels like, and what it all about is. This means that parents' lack a plan of action and it can be compared to driving in a foreign country without a map for guidance. To get over this shortcoming, parents need to read, research, and utilize resources to get started on the road to intentional parenting. It may even necessitate changing their strategy and approach towards the child.

After developing the vision and plan of action, there is still the task of implementing the intentional parenting concept. Being accountable is a good first step in this direction because when the parent deviates from the path of intentional parenting and may be slipping, accountability will enable the parent to get back on course and escape the mistake of falling out of habit.

With all these well meaning thoughts and ideas in place, it only remains to act with energy and time which, for busy parents, seems to be always in short supply. Nevertheless, with courage one can become a good parent. Every parent should be able to muster up enough courage and take the intentional parenting path, to achieve betterment of both child and parent. Ann Merier writes articles about family health,house and garden Topics. http://parentingtips.ultimatehealthinfo.com http://stopsmokingtip.ultimatehealthinfo.com/ http://losingweight.ultimatehealthinfo.com/ ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/intentional-parenting-do-you-know-what-hangs-in-the-balance http://www.artwoo.com/article/intentional-parenting-do-you-know-what-hangs-in-the-balance#comments Wed, 25 Oct 2006 18:27:05 +0000 effective parentinggood habittake the timeintentionalitybulls eyetendencyparents http://www.artwoo.com/article/intentional-parenting-do-you-know-what-hangs-in-the-balance bulls eye looks awfully small and so far away. Maybe you can relate. One thing is clear to me -- effective parenting is not something that easily comes. It takes great effort and it takes intentionality. The effort part is for another discussion, but what about intentionality?

An intentional parent is not a perfect parent (none of us fall into that category); rather, it is a parent who has "mentally determined upon some action or result related to parenting." The key is "mentally determined" since every good habit starts with a mental decision. I don't know about you, but I can't think of a single good habit I have that just happened. An intentional parent is an "on purpose" parent.

As parents, our greatest tendency is to react to our children rather than plan in advance. To complicate it even further, we acknowledge this tendency yet do little about it. What does this say about us as parents? The question we need to grapple with is why do we tend to continue down the same unintentional path? There are at least three practical reasons I have identified in my own life that make it difficult for me to be an intentional parent: vision, know-how and accountability. See if you can identify with any of them.

Our biggest obstacle starts in the mind -- we simply don't take the time to contemplate what hangs in the balance. To state it another way, we really have not taken the time to understand and embrace what is gained and what is lost by investing in our children as intentional parents. Most of us would agree, upon reflection, more is to be gained by taking an intentional approach to parenting our children. So, action step number one for becoming an intentional parent is to imagine what you want your relationship to be like with your child and what his or her relationships will be like with others once your child has reached adulthood. Add to that the legacy you want to leave and you start to catch a glimpse of what hangs in the balance.

I imagine my children growing up one day and investing their lives in their own family and those around them. Can that happen if I never invest time with them? Of course, but chances are they will be more apt to do it and more effective at it if I invest in them as young children. When Emily, our now 11 year old, was younger and wanted to play Old Maid when the football game was on, my first thought was "not during the game." As I look back now, I can say some of my funniest and fondest memories were playing a simple card game like Old Maid with our girls. It is amazing what you can teach a child about life during a basic game of Old Maid.

Our next challenge is lack of know-how. We have very little idea of what an intentional parent looks or acts like. In short, we are missing a plan. It is a bit like driving in a foreign country without a map or directions of any sort. You may eventually reach the destination but the frustration and loss of time makes the journey miserable and it is rarely worth the price. The solution is easy but it takes time. Research, read, utilize resources like Focus on the Family and survey your friends, especially those with grown children. One good resource can launch your journey to becoming an intentional parent. For me, it was a book by Tim Kimmel entitled Legacy of Love.

Being an intentional parent requires changing your strategy and approach as your child changes. If you are like I was early in my parenting I wanted to discover the know-how or "program" that worked, implement it and expect everything to fall neatly into place. I soon discovered the "neatly into place" part was a hurdle. I remember one particular airplane ride before we had our first daughter, Nicole. I was stuck next to a screaming child; you know, the one who never stops screaming the entire flight. I still hear myself saying, "I can't believe they are not able to control their child. My child will never act like that in public." Famous last words, right? Fast forward to my first airplane ride with Nicole when she was about six months old. It was a piece of cake -- not a peep out of her the entire time. Everyone was so complimentary and a proud Dad I was. I had the program figured out or so I thought until my second airplane ride with Nicole near her one year birthday. To say it was miserable and embarrassing would be an understatement. From the time the plane took off she started screaming and I was reduced to a helpless Dad -- duped by a one year old. Some program on "how you should act in public" I had! My child had changed -- it was time for a new strategy.

Once you have your vision and plan in place you are faced with implementation. Every parent understands the daily challenges of raising a child as life speeds by us like a NASCAR race. In my own life it is here in the daily battle that I have discovered the importance of accountability. My wife is the best intentional parent I know. She made a decision early in the lives of our children (Nicole is 14 and Emily is 11) to empower her friends to hold her accountable in her role as an intentional mother. As a result, when inertia begins to pull her away from intentional parenting her friends remind her of the vision, the plan and of what hangs in the balance. This accountability enables her to course correct and to escape falling "out of the habit" of intentional parenting. Who have you allowed into the center of your life to ask you the difficult questions and to challenge you to be an intentional parent?

Having a vision with know-how and even accountability means nothing unless and until we act. Actions require energy and time which, for busy people, always feels in short supply. If you are like me, fear and self-centeredness are oftentimes a big hindrance to being an intentional parent. A sense of scarcity and the lack of understanding of the consequences of inaction allow fear and self-centeredness to rule and block our otherwise good intentions. What will I need to give up in the way of time and energy to deliver in this area of my life? What will it cost me personally? It takes courage to be an intentional parent. So, what do you think -- is it worth your child's future and your legacy to become an intentional parent? Will you muster the courage it takes to impact a life?

I know what you are thinking -- where are all of the action steps, the secrets, the plan? Well, right now Emily needs help with her homework so more on the know-how will need to wait. Keep your eye out for the next article at www.CourageTheMonkey.com. Intentional parenting calls.

Copyright © 2006, Mark T. Jordan. All rights reserved. Permission granted to reprint this article without alteration if you include the bio and copyright. Mark Jordan is the author of several books including his most recent children's book http://www.CourageTheMonkey.com. He holds an MBA from Baylor University and a BSBA from the University of Arkansas. He can be reached at mark@CourageTheMonkey.com. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-advice-what-you-should-know-about-child-raising http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-advice-what-you-should-know-about-child-raising#comments Tue, 21 Aug 2007 21:25:01 +0000 good parentingparenting skillsparenting classparenting classesparenting stylesinexcusableparents http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-advice-what-you-should-know-about-child-raising Good parenting is a matter of time and of hard work, say most experts. A good parent knows his or her child inside and out when they're young, but quickly grows "out of the loop" as the child ages and becomes a teenager. The only constant among good parents is the amount of time they spend on parenting. Instead of looking for clues or seeking out skills, good parents should look for their children and seek out quality time with them.

Some parents consider taking parenting class. These classes can help improve on parenting skills and can help to fine-tune some of the aspects of parenting that many parents are unaware of. Parenting classes are also great places to get together with other parents and learn more "tricks of the trade" in terms of child rearing techniques. Many people learn a lot from a good parenting class and end up applying that knowledge to their own techniques to create a more general and natural approach to parenting.

Good parenting is typically in the eye of the beholder, whether parenting class or other techniques are in mind or not. The idea behind good parenting translates into being a support for the child. If a good parent practices optimum parenting skills, his or her children will reflect that in all degrees of life. Bad parenting, on the other hand, would have less than ideal results for the child. Truly, the ultimate testimony of the success of parenting styles is in the children raised within that system.

Bad parenting skills are present, too, in the form of neglect and other problematic ideologies. Many bad parents feel that parenting is an unnecessary aspect of their lives that they did not want in the first place. Parenting becomes a burden or becomes too difficult, often forcing the child to fend for themselves. This type of parenting is inexcusable, selfish and wrong.

Aspects of parenting, whether good parenting or bad parenting, are directly involved with raising children. Each parent will take a unique approach, from neglecting their responsibility and employing bad parenting skills, to becoming productive influences in the lives of their children and employing good parenting skills. Regardless of the type of parenting, it must be acknowledged as an important job and should be taken seriously. There is no excuse for neglectful approaches to parenting when the responsibility is firmly placed on the shoulders of those who brought the child into the world in the first place.

Parenting is an element of life that many people share. With different parents come different parenting skills, leading to a variety of people and a variety of parenting ideas. Many people neglect their parenting duties, however, in order to cut down on some of their stress. Others, thankfully, take up the mantle of parenting and are up for the task of raising their children. The best parents generally are known to have the best parenting skills and the most will to raise their children. Find more free parenting advice and download a Free Parenting Tips ebook at http://parentslearnmore.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-tips-what-you-should-know-about-effective-parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-tips-what-you-should-know-about-effective-parenting#comments Tue, 14 Aug 2007 08:30:00 +0000 effective parentingparenting skillsparenting adviceparenting bookparenting experienceparenting booksmany different ways http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-tips-what-you-should-know-about-effective-parenting effective parenting. They always strive to be the best possible parent they can be and often feel that they come up short in terms of their own parenting skills. Regardless, the search for better ways of effective parenting is a lifelong search for many parents. The notion of living up to expectations as a parent is often very near to the heart of many parents, creating a fear over parenting that often leads to insecurity and a lack of confidence in personal parenting skills.

Many people, when looking for strategies for effective parenting, turn to a parenting book. There are a number of options available on the market for these books, many of them from bestselling authors with loads of parenting experience. A parenting book can be a great way to shed some light on some of the deeper mysteries of parenting without sacrificing too much by way of cash or time for the cause. Most parenting books are approved by parents all around the world for teaching tips for effective parenting to parents of all shapes and sizes.

Some people look for parenting advice in any place they can find it. Many ask friends or family for parenting advice because of the experience that they may have. Parenting advice is something special; it can work from generation to generation and create a long-lasting effect on a family. Many people seek out advice from their own parents or family members because they have seen the workings of that style of parenting firsthand.

In any form, parenting help can be a great thing. There are many different ways to seek out parenting help, from family or friends and even therapy or psychological help with parenting skills. Many parents refuse to seek out parenting help because they do not feel they "need it" and they feel that they would rather struggle through parenting on their own. The best way to parent is through a network of support that will enable family to bind together and lean on one another. With that kind of support, parenting help can make all the difference in the world.

All in all, getting good parenting help is the gateway to effective parenting. Without assistance and advice, many parents simply go it alone and wander aimlessly through the struggle of parenting. Often times, it can be a shock to the system to acknowledge the need for help. Parenting should not be about ego or lack of humility; it should be about raising the child with the best information possible. In this aspect, using all of the resources possible, from parenting books to general parenting advice, is the best option to practice effective parenting techniques.

Essentially, it takes a village to raise a child. Effective parenting skills will inevitably reflect this notion, as more people start learning to create solid networks of support for their kids. In this respect, society benefits from people helping one another. This notion helps society grow and, as it would appear, leads to effective parenting skills from one generation to the next. Find more free parenting advice and download a Free Parenting Tips ebook at http://parentslearnmore.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/step-parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/step-parenting#comments Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:21:15 +0000 step parentingadult involvementrewarding rolerespect childrenbiological parentmarried lifefirst experience http://www.artwoo.com/article/step-parenting step parenting an enormously rewarding one.

Step parenting can mean that you are faced with marriage and parenthood in one fell swoop. Adjusting to married life can be challenging enough but when you compound the issues with children who are often bitter and confused, you're not always off to a great start. And if you don't have children of your own, you are now having your first experience with parenting. It can be extremely stressful for all involved.

Begin by remembering that step parenting is an evolution. This is a situation that will require quite a bit of adjustment; and as things settle down and the dust clears you will find that you have settled in to a rhythm.

Remember first and foremost that the job of step parenting does not require you to be your step children's friend. While you may not be their biological parent you are still an adult who is worthy of respect. Children have plenty of friends; what they need is adult involvement and healthy parenting.

Conversely, while you may not your step children's friend, you are also not their biological parent. Just as you are asking them to afford you a certain amount of respect, make it clear that you will respect their boundaries as well. Assure them that you understand that you are not their parent and you are not trying to take the place of that parent. Many times this will be just what the children need to hear. Rather than having to protect themselves from someone who they are concerned is trying to usurp their parent, they can relax and think of you as who you are =96 the person who is married to their mom or dad.

Step parenting can be a really rewarding role. Sometimes these relationships wind up being some of the most special to come from such a union. Begin your own unique journey by getting to know the children to whom you will be step parenting. You may find that they are amazing people to know. For easy to understand, in depth information about parenting visit our ezGuide 2 http://parenting.ezguide2.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-help-why-you-should-have-a-parenting-plan http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-help-why-you-should-have-a-parenting-plan#comments Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:35:01 +0000 attachment parentingparenting plannatural parentingparenting skillsfamily parentingcrowded houseawkward http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-parenting-help-why-you-should-have-a-parenting-plan parenting plan to help guide you through some of the potential pitfalls. Without a solid plan, your parenting skills may be put to the test more than you wish they would be and you may wind up making some awkward decisions that could greatly affect your family. With a comprehensive plan for parenting and raising your family, however, you can be a little more comfortable and a lot more prepared when it comes to raising your children.

Natural parenting is one styles of parenting that is often supported by a parenting plan. Natural parenting is based upon the parenting plan that essentially references no concrete plan. That is to say that the plan involved with natural parenting defers parenting to its most instinctual basis and offers parenting as per the needs in the child-to-parent relationship. Natural parenting is said to be beneficial to the child in that it puts the parent in direct tune with the needs of the child and enables the child to learn to "speak for itself" in terms of what it needs.

Other people use a more family-integrated parenting plan. This plan integrates extended family into the parenting mix, adding uncles and aunts and grandparents to create an entire "squad" of people that parent the child. This may also sometimes reference "crowded house syndrome" and may make the child feel overwhelmed with different vocal parents. The other aspect to consider in terms of family parenting is that it offers a solidified network of support and compassion at the outset and provides family nurturing in as direct a form as possible.

Attachment parenting is a parenting plan that many mothers integrate immediately after birth. This is a type of parenting plan that invokes the notion of not leaving the physical proximity of the infant and enabling for an attachment bond to be formed. There are many medical aspects that both support this style of parenting and condemn it. The supportive aspect is that it introduces the child to parental love and companionship on a consistent basis. The negative aspect of attachment parenting can be, of course, that the attachment may be pushed too far into the child's lifetime and the attachment may never be broken regardless of the age of the child.

Choosing a parenting plan is important because it must reflect the type of child that is present in your life. There is no absolute in terms of a parenting plans; you may find that you select a variance of each type of parenting plan in order to create your own basis for a path on which to raise your family. Regardless of the course of action you choose, the best thing you can do for your family is raise them in a loving and compassionate home with ample room for growth and challenges.

Parenting is the most important job in the world. All too often, parenting is a job that many people do not take seriously enough. With a comprehensive and flexible parenting plan, parents can get on top of the aspects of parenting which may cause them trouble down the road. They can anticipate certain parts of parenting that may cause them difficulty, too, and can utilize aspects of the parenting plan to help combat that adversity. All in all, a good parenting plan is an important component to the lifestyles of many happy families. Find more free parenting advice and download a Free Parenting Tips ebook at http://parentslearnmore.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-tip-the-most-important-thing-a-parent-can-do http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-tip-the-most-important-thing-a-parent-can-do#comments Fri, 04 May 2007 23:34:57 +0000 parenting tipparenting experienceparenting educationparenting tipshundredth timekids knowthree nights a week http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-tip-the-most-important-thing-a-parent-can-do parenting tip won't drain your wallet, but it is costly.

It doesn't require years of parenting education, instead it's actually quite instinctive.

The most important parenting tip is simple yet profound. You can start using it today and expect almost immediate results.

After over two decades of parenting experience, I can tell you the most important parenting tip I have discovered is simply 'being there'. 'Being there' has become my most fundamental parenting concept.

- Be there...when they're just babies and need to be cuddled for the hundredth time in a day.

- Be there...then they're toddlers and need one more book read to them, calmly, so they can settle down in bed.

- Be there...when they're preschoolers and they fall down the slide on the playground.

- Be there...when they're in elementary school and their three best friends desert them all at once.

- Be there...when they're in middle school and damage something they can't fix on their own.

- Be there...when they're teenagers and need to talk at 10 pm three nights a week.

- Be there...when they're college-aged and sometimes just need to hear mom or dad's voice because nothing's going as planned.

Just be there.

Be there physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, spiritually, and relationally.

Be there because it works.

A word of caution about this parenting tip. Your kids can tell when you're 'being there' with them or when your attention is wandering. If you need to be doing something else, then tell them and go do it. But when you are with them, be with them. The child that feels he or she is special enough to be important to at least one other human being is the child that grows up well-grounded and secure in a stable environment. (If you would like more parenting tips based on 'being there', see the resource box following this article.)

Being there is a costly strategy in a distracted world. Your kids know you and your time is valuable and it speaks volumes to them when they see you putting your own needs aside and giving them your time and self instead.

And, please, I'm not speaking about spoiling your child. Not about giving into their every demand for attention, money or time. Not at all.

I'm speaking of shouldering your responsibilities as a parent. Even when it's inconvenient. Even when you're tired. Especially when it means sacrifice.

I'm talking about doing the right thing.

That's another way to understand the most important parenting tip of all. Colleen Langenfeld has been parenting for over 25 years and helps other moms enjoy mothering more at http://www.paintedgold.com. Get the parenting tip that works for you at http://www.paintedgold.com/Kids/parenting-tip.html . ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-successful-parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-successful-parenting#comments Thu, 03 Aug 2006 02:27:12 +0000 parenting tipspoor parentingparenting principlesdiscipline boundariesset boundariesparentshttp http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-successful-parenting poor parenting is the main cause of bad behaviour in children.

Kids can be frustrating, annoying and down right infuriating at times and yet you're still expected to love and care for the little 'angels' through thick and thin.

They won't admit it as often parents don't know any different, but often the problem is due to poor parenting which manifests itself in bad behaviour in the child. This in turn has a negative affect on the home and work life of everyone in the household as strife and conflict dominates the family.

Anne Sprigpitt, owner of Parenting-tips.info says, "Most parents don't realise it, but their actions have a direct influence on the behaviour of their child whether they are a toddler or a teen. Almost everything a child learns in the first few years of its life is from their parents and it is all stored in the child's memory for a later date."

"The biggest problems are due to a lack of discipline, boundaries and standards, and most importantly a lack of affection and display of their love for the child. However, these can easily be resolved by applying simple parenting principles and strategies which can have an immediate and dramatic impact on the behaviour of the child."

"In many cases, children who are repeatedly violent and disruptive in school are found to have deeply rooted problems at home, caused by bad parenting. Once this is realised and acknowledged a number of techniques can be implemented and significant improvements are often found in the child's behaviour in a matter of a few weeks or even days."

Parenting is not easy, but it is not hard either, provided you establish a loving two way relationship with the child, set boundaries and discipline the child appropriately when necessary. For more help and advice on parenting visit http://www.Parenting-Tips.info and find all the tips you need for successful parenting. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/there-is-a-case-for-natural-parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/there-is-a-case-for-natural-parenting#comments Thu, 13 Sep 2007 04:20:02 +0000 natural parentingparenting workshopsparenting methodsparenting styleshuman beings havespontaneityencyclopedias http://www.artwoo.com/article/there-is-a-case-for-natural-parenting natural parenting the way God has intended humans to bring up their children, i.e. as guided by your gut feelings. Millions of children are raised this way all over the world, and they are being raised very successfully. Nevertheless, other types of parenting styles exist as well. There is guided parenting, where parents learn how to parent through books, workshops, research, journals and articles. Usually such people are walking encyclopedias on matters regarding parenting -- however, in real life; they are as puzzled by the subject as any other parent.

Every animal on this planet has parenting instincts. Look around you -- whether it is the spider, or the cat, or your pet dog or the fish in your fish -- every species have their own natural parenting methods. Human beings have their own style as well. Relying only on gut feeling can take one very far in successfully raising your children. However, there is too much information floating around in so many forms, which confuses parents and make them flounder in this basic task.

As an example, it is completely natural to breastfeed an infant. This basic parenting task usually does not require any teaching or instruction. Nowadays there are so many conflicting opinions on this basic task that it's easy for a new parent to become confused and wonder whether they are doing the right thing. This same situation exists in the areas of feeding, discipline, nutrition and others.

If you go back some 30 or 40 years you will find that natural parenting was very common and quite successful. Today when parents attend parenting workshops, make unending appointments with the pediatrician, keep researching on every aspect of bringing up children, parenting loses its charm, warmth and spontaneity.

You will find that today natural parenting has taken a back seat. Instead of relying on their instincts, today's parents tend to fret over every latest piece of research, some of which are blatant nonsense. Unfortunately, the results are not so good when natural parenting takes the back seat. Children need to be free and happy, and a growing movement is beginning to see how natural parenting can create the environment for children to naturally prosper.

It is very difficult for a natural bond to form between parent and child when the child is raised according to someone else's idea of what is proper and correct. Rather, it needs the 'I feel right about this' method of parenting. This is what natural parenting is all about, i.e. trusting your own gut feelings while making decisions about raising your children -- and that is the ways things should be. At http://www.parentplaza.com you can get parenting ideas. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/good-parenting-providing-benefits-for-a-lifetime http://www.artwoo.com/article/good-parenting-providing-benefits-for-a-lifetime#comments Fri, 15 Dec 2006 12:27:11 +0000 good parentingluckilybeneficialself confidentconverselyemotionallydanger signs http://www.artwoo.com/article/good-parenting-providing-benefits-for-a-lifetime Good parenting can not be clearly defined, as it is very often a subjective concept. One parent's definition of good parenting may be another's definition of poor judgment. Cultural differences impact parenting standards enormously as do a myriad of other things. Luckily there are a few fundamental standards that are held by society as a common measure of good parenting.

As parents, the most basic of our responsibilities are to keep our children safe and healthy to the best of our abilities. A parent who struggles to feed their child because of economic reasons, or a parent who lives in a less than safe neighborhood can hardly be considered a bad parent. The key here is the "best of their abilities" -- good (or bad) parenting can often be defined by intent. The care a parent provides for their child -- that is consciously intended to be beneficial can help us define good parenting.

For our purposes, a child who is clean, well fed, and healthy as a result of the care provided to them by their parent's best efforts is said to be the product of good parenting.

Additionally, a child's emotional well being is just as important as their physical well being. Good parenting means making yourself emotionally available to your children -- encouraging them and supporting their journey through life. A child who is emotionally healthy -- happy, secure, and self-confident -- can often attribute their emotional health to good parenting.

Conversely -- a child who acts out behaviorally, inflicts harm on himself or others, and is emotionally shut down is often missing good parenting. Keep in mind, however, that many of these warning signs can be the result of depression and other medical conditions. But when none of these conditions are present, the parenting of the child should be addressed.

Schools will often become involved in assessing the existence of good parenting when danger signs become evident within school. A child who is noticeably neglected physically -- comes to school unkempt, unclean, and otherwise unhealthy on a consistent basis will raise red flags. Additionally, a child who appears emotionally unstable, suffers from poor grades, depression, and/or social problems will also be noticed.

Children who are the product of good parenting will often be noticed as the children who excel in school, have many friends, and are happy, functioning members of the school community.

Good parenting can set the tone for a child's whole life to come. Providing a physically and emotionally safe environment in which a child can flourish will provide that child a lifetime of confidence and emotional health so that they can pass good parenting along to their children. For easy to understand, in depth information about parenting visit our ezGuide 2 http://parenting.ezguide2.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-tip-create-a-sane-holiday-season-now http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-tip-create-a-sane-holiday-season-now#comments Thu, 03 Apr 2008 14:20:01 +0000 parenting tipsending cardsterm consequenceshouse of worshippractical applicationsholiday seasonbusiness owner http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-tip-create-a-sane-holiday-season-now parenting tip with practical applications? Most parents can. As a mother and a business owner who has worked with hundreds of moms over the past few years, I often hear the same thing.

"This year, it will be different," these overwhelmed moms sigh as the holiday season draws near. "I won't let my family do so many activities. It won't be such a blur! We're going to have a sane holiday this year."

Starting to sound like a New Year's Resolution, isn't it? Great idea...if only you could pull it off.

Well, this year you can.

I have been parenting for over 26 years. As a mom, I know how crazy the end of the year has become for our whole culture. Not only is there an abundance of activities for adults, but our children have been pulled into the madness as well, with nearly unlimited opportunities of their own. To top it off, most of these activities are good, even excellent.

Feeling a little overwhelmed just thinking about it? Me, too.

So here's a parenting tip with long term consequences: let's get on top of this situation now, while the season is still in front of us and we actually have time to plan. Pull out a calendar and ask yourself how you really want your holiday season to be this year.

For example...

-- do you enjoy having an activity every evening?

-- do you enjoy activities away from home or at home? Or a mix?

-- do you want your kids to primarily do activities with their friends or with their family? (I really hope you're choosing family!)

-- what traditions are most important to you? Baking cookies? Sending cards? Caroling? Helping in your community? Serving in your house of worship?

-- do your children even understand *why* this time of year is so precious? Do they understand the religious and historical backgrounds of the holidays you celebrate?

So what's the bottom line here? Stop trying to do everything and concentrate on one or two activities that are truly meaningful to your family. YOU decide the important messages you want to impress upon your children this holiday season. You can choose from the long-established traditions to teach those messages or create brand new traditions that your family will love embracing.

Making family memories is what will stay with your family, year after year. It's what your children will take with them into adulthood. It is what they will form their own family traditions on.

They won't remember all the hectic activities. But they will remember things like this: that every year, on the weekend after Thanksgiving, we get the Christmas decorations out of storage, snuggle up with hot chocolate, and fondly reminisce over the history of each ornament. It's the story of our family, remembered and added to each year.

That's one of my children's favorite holiday traditions. Pretty simple, huh? But my grown sons speak fondly of this tradition so I know it has been important to them. And I continue it now with my daughters.

Do you see what else is going on here? Besides the warm fuzzies, I am now much more aware of the powerful influence I have as my children's parent. And it makes it easier for me to *intentionally* use making memories to teach them what I believe is most important for them to know.

So what is my most excellent parenting tip for you this holiday season? Stop going with the flow. Instead think, plan and create your family's holiday memories this season. Be intentional with your family's limited time (and energy), and encourage peace, laughter and thoughtfulness during this blessed and holy time of the year. Colleen Langenfeld has been parenting for over 26 years and helps other moms enjoy mothering more at http://www.paintedgold.com. Visit http://www.paintedgold.com/Kids/parenting-tip.html to get the parenting tip you need today. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-successful-parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-successful-parenting#comments Sat, 02 Dec 2006 20:27:04 +0000 good parentingsignspositive directioneveryday lifesmilessuccessessolid food http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-successful-parenting signs of successful parenting.

All along the way, it may be hard to see the end; however there are always signs of successful parenting. Some of the easier ones are smiles, laughs, and surprises with unexpected successes. Of course you will see many successes throughout and of course these are signs of good parenting as well.

Early on, you will see a lot since its not everyday life. This makes it real easy to encourage your children. First steps, first time eating solid food, and when they start getting around the yard will reveal a lot. You see them stand, and come to you with the biggest smiles. And their first words will indeed show you that you are having successful steps.

Later on you need to work harder on many fronts. Often it seems more like everyday life as you have known it since your early days. It can be harder to notice things that are everyday. For successful parenting you will have to. You need to encourage your children when they do things that are part of life. So they will see positive direction and strive to do more of it.

A lot of parenting is leading by example. With that comes a lot of good successful parenting from simply doing the right things, in a positive direction. It rubs off on children too. For example, many children will ask to use the broom and sweep too. Or maybe they will want to go fix the vehicle (or simply their own bicycle). A lot of this comes from the children watching you, the adults doing things, and wanting to do their own as well. These are definitely signs of successful parenting.

Many will say when their children become teenagers, it gets a lot tougher. Children grow and come to a point when they see that they now are getting to where they can succeed on their own on many fronts. Often they see more than is really there, though that's human nature. Looking to the future with what they know, not realizing they still need to learn a bit more yet.

This isn't as tough as many see. While reminding your children they still aren't adults and haven't all the answers; you will also likely help them understand many of the answers at the same time. When you watch your children take on their first jobs you will again see many signs of successful parenting. You will no doubt grow with them all the way to.

There will indeed be times though where there are tougher moments. As children grow they also find peer pressure, and sometimes they will do a few things on their own that have negative impact. How you handle these moments can make a big difference in success in the big picture. It may be wise to seek further information in this area. Knowing more, you will be able to better correct the situation, in ways that make them excellent life learning situations that give your children even better preparedness in life.

When it comes to the many areas needed to be successful at parenting, you can also find tons of information, help, activities, workshops, classes, and much more online. A good place to start might be where you found this article. There will be a great many resources here. Beyond this, the internet will bring you a vast pool of resources.

In the end, you will see all the signs of successful parenting when your children have grown up. Often they will return many favors, and your family will be stronger than ever. Read more about http://best-parenting.com/parenting_advice.php parenting and get successful parenting help at Best Parenting. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-terrible-teens-the-challenge-of-parenting-teenagers http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-terrible-teens-the-challenge-of-parenting-teenagers#comments Tue, 22 Apr 2008 22:22:09 +0000 parenting teenagerstoddler tantrumsparenting childrenfeeding frenzyresponsible parentright of passageterrible twos http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-terrible-teens-the-challenge-of-parenting-teenagers terrible twos" =96 a time in which toddlers set about finding and asserting their own individuality and independence. It can be an enormously demanding time for parents who =96 up until then =96 had complete control over the activities of their child. Suddenly, they are thrust into a world where their word is challenged and their once complacent child has been replaced with an unpredictable person who knows their own mind and isn't afraid to say so.

But what few will tell you as you go through this frustrating time is that it's just the beginning. That these small toddler tantrums that seem so earth-shattering at the time are merely the appetizers to a much larger feeding frenzy. Because the challenge of parenting teenagers is still to come and =96 little do you know =96 you'll soon wish for these times of innocence and toddler tenacity.

Parenting children of any age carries with it its own set of challenges. But the challenge of parenting teenagers brings unique demands. With teenagers, parenting is complicated because you are trying to administer guidance and support to someone who has developed their own specific opinions about life.

Along with these newly developed views on the world comes the desire to experiment =96 a universal teenaged right of passage. The challenge of parenting teenagers is bridging the gap between allowing your children enough space to be who they need/want to be at that particular moment while still establishing enough boundaries to keep them safe. It can be a difficult line to walk.

The challenge of parenting teenagers also means avoiding the temptation of wanting to be your child's friend. Teenagers don't need any more friends =96 they need parents who set boundaries. It's hard to be unpopular and to make unpopular decisions but it's a part of being a responsible parent.

Support your children with understanding, unwavering love, and a positive outlook on life. Many teenagers =96 immersed in their own world of difficulties and drama =96 will often have trouble imagining a life beyond these turbulent years. You, as their parent, must act as their guide to adulthood.

The challenge of parenting teenagers includes a myriad of things that can be predicted and just as many that can't. The challenge really lies in how you approach this difficult time in your life. With open communication and a world of patience, the challenge of parenting teenagers can also be filled with rewards. For easy to understand, in depth information about parenting visit our ezGuide 2 http://parenting.ezguide2.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-curriculum-is-a-phone-call-away http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-curriculum-is-a-phone-call-away#comments Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:12:03 +0000 parenting curriculumparenting forumsparentspricelesslove and respectchat linesguidance http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-parenting-curriculum-is-a-phone-call-away parents find their children a handful both emotionally and physically. They love their children and want to give them the best they can -- and always feel that they could have done better if they found/ had better guidance. Parents mostly feel lost when it comes to establish a mutually respectful relationship which can alternate love and respect effortlessly.

Where Do You Look for Parenting Guidelines?

Usually, when you are stuck in your day-to-day parenting chores, you tend to ask your parents -- because in your mind they would know best. Similarly, you should understand that for a child, the parent is the ultimate authority often for life -- though this would not be visible at the first glance.

It would be great if there was a parenting curriculum, which could act as a standard for all parents. Since this is not there, it is left on the intelligence of the parents to work out the best solutions when they have a problem with parenting; the internet is priceless for this purpose. One can search and find parenting forums, chat lines, websites, books and even hotlines for experts which can provide much better guidance than any parenting curriculum would have ever done.

Your Own Parents

The best parenting guidelines would always be your gut feeling and the advice of your mother. Whenever you feel that you are stuck, all you need to do is to get in touch with your mother and ask her how she would have handled it. Unfortunately, most of us lose emotional touch with your parents after we marry and settle down to raise our own family. We often forget that both the 'school' and the 'parenting curriculum' can be found in our own parents!

There are a lot of things that experience hands down over to parents along the years; and often this experience becomes a private parenting curriculum, which is bundled tightly in the mind's attic waiting to be unfolded and used at the appropriate time. Hence, you will never find a better parenting curriculum or guidance than that your own parents collected over the years to hand over to you. This is why the relationship between parents and their children and that of children and their grandparents is so meaningful.

Of course, for those who cannot reach out to their parents, there are millions of websites which can act as surrogate parents in difficult times. Fortunately, the internet can be used at any time of night and day with excellent results. It is very rare that you search something on the internet and you come up empty-handed -- parenting help included. Ann Merier writes articles about family health,house and garden Topics. http://parentingtips.ultimatehealthinfo.com http://stopsmokingtip.ultimatehealthinfo.com/ http://losingweight.ultimatehealthinfo.com/ ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/an-overview-on-single-parenting http://www.artwoo.com/article/an-overview-on-single-parenting#comments Sat, 18 Nov 2006 16:27:04 +0000 single parentingparenting todaylook to the futurechild renchildren of todayworld tomorrowromantic tragedy http://www.artwoo.com/article/an-overview-on-single-parenting Single Parenting has been on the rise dramatically over the past 3 decades; and it's still on the increase. Once upon a time it was often looked down at as a matter of limited values, and on occasion as the result of romantic tragedy. Today society sees it a lot more realistically, and acknowledges that regardless of the cause; it's just as important to be sure children have the best start on life that they can receive.

One thing that hasn't changed at all over time is the fact that the most important thing we all accomplish in life, is improving life for those that will follow, and preparing them to do it yet again. Our children of today are those that will have to live in our world tomorrow, and when that comes, they will be standing like we do today then. The future is as much at stake even when single parenting.

Today, if you find yourself single parenting you have it better than many of those did in the past. There are many that have come before you with experience, and they have driven yet many others in the right direction. You may even have a good view from watching it in your own life as well. The more information you have, the better your knowledge will be in this important task.

One thing that in the past has indeed set single parents behind is worrying about how they wound up single parenting their child(ren). It has a strong likeliness of shedding negative on your days when you want to look to the future with as much positive as you can get in it for your child(ren). Try to keep the most positive outlook you can, especially when explaining it to your children.

A large aspect of single parenting is doing the job of both roles bringing up your children. You have to be both the mother and the father to them, and each can be extensive at times. However there is common ground between them. You may want to spend some extra time watching and looking for information on the role that you wouldn't play in a two parent family. After all is said and done, you may likely have the most complete view on parenting since you will experience the whole unlike many others.

Just like any other parenting, you will definitely need to take care of raising, teaching, learning, and growing all the way. The biggest difference is you have extra duties to take care of, and should definitely have better backup plans. Good planning of your weekly schedule will leave you a lot more flexible to take care of surprise emergencies that can come up at times.

When it comes to seeking information on single parenting, you will definitely find a lot of diverse information in the form of personal experiences, census based studies, Christian organization literature, news, books, and too many other sources to list in this briefing. There is a lot of information out there specific to single parenting.

When you start out looking for more specific information on single parenting, you should be able to start where you found this article. Take care to go through all the information that is available here, and see how it fits what you already know. Some will carry great ideas that work specific to your situation, while others may seem distant and irrelevant. You are likely to find links to many other things as well.

Other sources that you will want to consider are your favorite search engine, parenting organizations, and generally any source that seems to have information for you on single parenting that you can believe. Watch out for misinformation as well though and remember that regardless, if you are the single parent, it's you and your child(ren), and while others have great stories too, you are making your own, and not everything will apply.

In the end, whether you have the job of single parenting, or are just considering it, you should now know that like any other parenting, it's very important and something you will want to understand the best you can. Best Parenting http://best-parenting.com/parenting_information.php offers help and information about parenting your children. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/learning-about-positive-parenting-and-the-benefits-that-last-a-lifetime http://www.artwoo.com/article/learning-about-positive-parenting-and-the-benefits-that-last-a-lifetime#comments Sun, 07 Jan 2007 22:27:05 +0000 positive parentingbridge the gapparenting worksparenting stylesacting outadultsgood behavior http://www.artwoo.com/article/learning-about-positive-parenting-and-the-benefits-that-last-a-lifetime bridge the gap between a myriad of parenting styles. Positive parenting -- offering children positive feedback for their achievements and efforts -- can go a long way towards raising positive, emotionally healthy adults.

Too often children are noticed -- and punished -- for their negative behavior. While discipline and boundaries are always appropriate, you must be sure that your child is not only receiving negative attention. When children are noticed for their bad behavior and ignored when they are acting appropriately, it sends the wrong kind of message. And what can result -- when positive parenting is not utilized -- is a lifetime of acting out in order to get attention.

Instead, demonstrate positive parenting by celebrating the accomplishments of your children. Have a special dinner for a great report card, hang good schoolwork up on the refrigerator, give consistent verbal praise for a job well done, and take special notice of good behavior in social settings. Children will respond to positive parenting. Anyone who has experienced it will attest to the fact that a child's face will light up when you verbally validate good behavior. They'll be sure to repeat it because it earned them high regard and a pat on the back.

Positive parenting is not a complicated concept. Children are people too. And if we take into account our own experiences as adults, it's not difficult to see how positive parenting works. How often do we, as adults, wish that our hard work would be noticed in our place of work? Instead it seems as though we're only addressed to be dressed down for something we failed to accomplish. After awhile, this negative attention can really beat you down emotionally. It seems futile to keep putting in the hard work when it's never noticed.

Children feel the same way. If their positive accomplishments are never validated, then they don't learn to continue. Often we assume that they know their efforts are appreciated. But those who practice positive parenting know that a child's efforts must be verbally recognized -- consistently and enthusiastically.

Positive parenting can reap enormous rewards. Not only will you encourage the healthy development of your child through their adolescence but you will ensure them an adulthood filled with self-confidence, emotional health, and happiness. And there's no greater reward than that. For easy to understand, in depth information about parenting visit our ezGuide 2 http://parenting.ezguide2.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/parenting-teenagers-playing-the-freedom-game-and-winning http://www.artwoo.com/article/parenting-teenagers-playing-the-freedom-game-and-winning#comments Thu, 27 Mar 2008 04:25:01 +0000 parenting teenagersmaturity levelsmaturity levelrelationship testadult worldserious timeteen years http://www.artwoo.com/article/parenting-teenagers-playing-the-freedom-game-and-winning teen years? Parenting teenagers requires a parent to walk a fine line between boundaries and letting go. Out of four children, I am currently parenting my third teenager and I'd like to share some simple guidelines that will soothe your parental anxieties and help your home life be calmer.

-- Know your teen.

It's easy to say everyone is different; it's more difficult to describe, in detail, those differences. You will find parenting teenagers less-stressful and your teen will respond better to you if you spend serious time knowing your teenager.

Yes, this is called relationship and it's spelled T-I-M-E. There's nothing new here. But are you doing this? Are you building the relationship with your teenager that will last a lifetime? Here's a little test: think of your two best friends. Calculate how much time you spend weekly with each, whether in person, on the phone, or online. How does that amount of time stack up with what you give your teen?

Another worthwhile relationship test is to think about who knows you the best in the whole world. Who would you trust to go to when you have a problem? You want your teen to think of you in this way. If you're not there, start building that today.

-- Acquiring freedom is a process. Not an event.

Once you feel you have an accurate understanding of your teen, you can measure his or her maturity levels. This will tell you a lot about the amount of freedom your young adult is ready for. If the maturity level is still young, give limited freedom. Be intentional about helping your teenager grow appropriately and add the desired freedoms at each level.

-- Practice. Learn from failures. Repeat.

That's the simple formula for parenting teenagers into the adult world. It's the way we all grow and develop. Be your teen's mentor for this process (as opposed to being their best friend). Support and encourage them; go over where they failed and together strategize on new solutions they can try.

-- Look ahead.

In our home, we look to the future and project, approximately, when our teenagers are going to be leaving home. For us, usually that's college age. They need to be able to handle a considerable amount of freedom (be pretty much independent) by the time they leave home. Then we work backwards and start looking for ways to grow them into that much freedom step by step.

Since all teenagers are different, we've needed to be flexible in the 'how' not the 'what'. We've had one teen who was always ahead of the process. He wanted total freedom upfront. So we established boundaries (guidelines) he had to meet to EARN the freedoms he eagerly wanted, one at a time. As he displayed the responsibility necessary to achieve those guidelines, we rewarded him with more freedom and explained the new boundaries at each level.

Another of our teens needed coaxing to move forward. So we looked for strategies that would increase his self-confidence and cause him to look forward with excitement. Again, boundaries were discussed and implemented. He blossomed quickly when he discovered he was in charge of his own future. We were simply there to support, guide and provide a safety net (plus a whole lot of cheerleading).

Parenting teenagers is an exciting thrill ride that can be highly satisfying as you watch your young adult mature and be ready to face the world. As a parent you are building the future in vital ways through your influence in your teen's life. As you stand up to that honorable challenge, your teen will respond to your leadership.

That's when you realize you truly have built a wonderful relationship with your teenager. Colleen Langenfeld has been parenting for over 26 years and helps other moms enjoy mothering more at http://www.paintedgold.com. Learn more today about parenting teenagers at http://www.paintedgold.com/Kids/parenting-teenager.html . ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/foster-parenting-and-foster-children http://www.artwoo.com/article/foster-parenting-and-foster-children#comments Fri, 01 Dec 2006 14:27:04 +0000 foster parentingchild welfare fieldhome situationplaymatespositive directionvisual historyemotional issues http://www.artwoo.com/article/foster-parenting-and-foster-children foster parenting. While nearly all other parents will know a lot of good, solid, and visual history on the children they are raising, as a foster parent, you may have little more information than those in the child welfare field will tell you.

At the same time you may indeed be a temporary stay, or grow to a permanent situation (whether official or just as it continues along). It takes special people to deal with this level of uncertainty and remain in the best interest of the children.

That's the most important aspect of it all though, if you are willing to do your best to help continue children along into a positive direction, from where they came from, caring that they are taken well care of; then foster parenting may very well be something that you can do to contribute to the future.

On the other hand, if you simply see foster children as playmates for your family or as additional income you should steer away as you can do more damage than good in the big picture for both your own family as well as the foster children. As with any parenting, you need to be in it for the sake of the children.

The outcome needs to be the same as fulltime parenting at the point when they leave your home. In other words you have to be a parent just the same, but within the foster children's life, you need to take over for some time, and do your best to see that they have a good home, and growing experience within it.

Some foster children were removed from a bad home situation, whereas others were brought into the foster home situation due to their own problems elsewhere (home, school, etc). Taking the time to find out as much as you can on this situation when coming into it will indeed help you to be better at foster parenting.

You will likely need to overcome emotional issues starting with how they came to your care. Some may know well already, or just think that they will get tossed from home to home for the rest of their lives. You need to find out as much as you can and help them understand at their current situation.

They may even be rebellious as a result. Even though they may still be young, they are humans and make decisions; though maybe without a good understanding of it all. You may be the difference in their life that begins a happier lifetime. Remember, if no-one helps them understand what they ask, they may simply make up their own opinion and hold everyone else to it.

You will also have to expose them to a good home where they are earnestly cared for. This is something all children need to prepare them for the world they will eventually be in. If they get there with a lot of anger and hatred, odds are they will never find happiness in it. Your task is to do your best to help them get there and find a good future.

In the end, there is no shorter answer to any child's growing years. It takes the whole stretch to get there. As a foster parent, you have the opportunity to show them a positive direction to run in, while also having proud memories of them as well (short or long). Doing your best at foster parenting can bring you many good experiences as well. Go to http://best-parenting.com/Foster_parenting.php for more information about foster parenting and other parenting issues. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/finding-assistance-for-those-parenting-troubled-teens http://www.artwoo.com/article/finding-assistance-for-those-parenting-troubled-teens#comments Fri, 08 Dec 2006 10:27:04 +0000 parentingtroubled teenschat forumstoday parentsexacerbateluckilyreassuring http://www.artwoo.com/article/finding-assistance-for-those-parenting-troubled-teens Parenting in general -- while enormously rewarding and joy filled -- can also be an exhaustive, confusing experience. No child arrives with an operational manual and many of us just find our way day to day doing the best we can.

Each age group offers its own set of challenges. But none is more talked about or struggled with than the teenaged years. Raising a typical teenager can be stressful enough as you battle for control with a young adult eager to assert his/her independence. But parenting troubled teens offers its own unique experience. Parenting troubled teens can exacerbate an already stressful time and put an enormous strain on a family unit.

Luckily there are many avenues available to those parenting troubled teens. While the experience can often feel isolating, there does exist a large, populated community of parents struggling with the same challenges. Whether your teen is struggling with emotional or physical challenges, depression, eating disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, or any one of the countless issues facing teenagers today, parents can take comfort in the expansive resources available to them.

To test the waters, those parenting troubled teens can easily turn to the safety of their own home computer. The Internet offers a variety of resources that those parenting troubled teens can access. Many sites -- in addition to offering general information and even listings of local resources -- will guide you to online chat forums where those who are parenting troubled teens can share their stories. There may be nothing more reassuring during this stressful time than simply meeting someone who understands.

Additional resources for those parenting troubled teens include psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed therapists who have experience with such issues. Whether its counseling for the teen himself or guidance for parents, professional assistance can go a long way in your journey.

Support groups -- much like online chat forums -- offer those who are parenting troubled teens an opportunity to share their frustrations, fears, and struggles. Ultimately you may find that you are one day sharing your accomplishments as you face and conquer the challenges of parenting troubled teens.

Parenting troubled teens can be a harrowing experience. The pressure on couples and families can be enormous. But if you take advantage of every tool available to you -- seeking out local and Internet resources -- you will soon find that you have a comprehensive and powerful weapon at your disposable to help you in your journey. For easy to understand, in depth information about parenting visit our ezGuide 2 http://parenting.ezguide2.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-your-babys-name-a-difficult-task http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-your-babys-name-a-difficult-task#comments Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:27:06 +0000 irish baby namesnaming your babybaby parentingdefinitelyhttpboilshopefully http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-your-babys-name-a-difficult-task
Of course, no matter how desperate you are about choosing a beautiful name for your newborn, this article will definitely give you some great ideas! More importantly, you will get rid of the annoying question "Have you picked a name yet?"

Putting the jokes aside now, let's get our hands on some important tips that will really assist you in picking a beautiful name for your baby.

Well, the first thing that you have to do is to try to think about a person that you admired through your whole life. Of course, this will probably lead you to the common practice of naming your baby after your mother/father (it's almost impossible that this has not already crossed your mind) but there are also circumstances when you are going to remember other people that you always adored.

No success? Well, have a good look at your sweet newborn; does it reflect something really unique? Is there something special about your baby that reminds you of a beautiful name? People have named their children with names such as "Star" or "Aurora" because that's what they felt their baby was reflecting. Among names of this category, there are also names that represent moral values; you could consider those too.

If you still haven't picked up a name yet, you are probably lost among the thousands of names available. If this is the case then the whole matter boils down to finding a name that both you and your partner like. Sit down, discuss about various names and make a list of potential choices. Try to filter out names that you don't really like and you will hopefully end up with your best choice. Good luck! http://www.baby-parenting.co.uk - Baby Parenting UK http://www.baby-parenting.co.uk/baby/irish_baby_names.html - Irish Baby Names http://www.baby-parenting.co.uk/pregnancy/pregnancy.html - Pregnancy information ]]>