There are so many responsibilities that come with the title of "Parents." Without a doubt, we all enjoy our children. Our hearts soar when we see our children happy, knowing we played a role in that delighted expression. We glow with their successes and hurt during their failures. We dream for them and with them.
We attempt to raise our children with a sense of value. We teach them what we feel are important lessons to take with them into adulthood. And, we fear we will miss key values that will help them to avoid the pitfalls of learning too late.
The list of pass-on wisdom is too long for any one conversation; however, below are lessons that will only add value to their lives, regardless of age or accomplishments.
1.Make a difference.
Not all fond memories are made up of grand efforts. The small, kind gestures that can be freely given typically are the most memorable. Teach children that their smiles and genuine hugs can brighten a lonely day. Encourage them to befriend a loner in school, have them make a hand drawn card for their grandparents, offer to rake the elderly neighbor's yard, donate time to the less fortunate, etc. By persuading children to give of themselves is also supporting the absolute fact that they can make a difference in the lives of others and are truly valued members of the human race.
2. Life is a gift
How many of us have wished our days away only to say, "Wow, where did the time go?" Life is a gift and each day is a blessing. When you first lay eyes on children, smile and remind them that it is a beautiful day and to make the most of it. If they are grumpy help them find the brighter side of their issue, if they are facing a problem guide them to a peaceful resolution, if they are full of the negatives turn their thoughts to life and all of its opportunities. Life is too short to let it pass us by without recognizing the beauty that surrounds us.
3. Love everyone you can and don't expect that everyone will love you
There are too many people on this planet to be able to love all and have those love you back. Too many times we set our standards of worthiness not on the ones who love us but those who don't. It is normal to limit our friendship where feelings are mutual. Don't let children place their self worth on a losing battle. Teach them to be nice to all but don't expect to be the champion to everyone. It isn't possible or healthy.
4. Think before you speak
Words cannot be taken back and hurtful words can sour hearts. Practice the deep breath method... when thinking of allowing the mouth to explode, take a deep breath and think. If restraint isn't possible, walk away. Regrets and pain will be fewer the more distance given to the bruised ego or heart.
5. Stand up for your beliefs while respecting others
One of the many amazing rights we have in our country is the right to speak up when we feel wronged. However, teach respectful methods of disagreements. Remind children which part of the head goes first, ears or mouth. When allowing ears the first opening we gain understanding which will lead to resolution while respecting all viewpoints. When it becomes time for our mouths to move, speak in a manner that is non-offensive. Our viewpoint will be more likely heard and appreciated.
Before beginning obedience training develop the desire to retrieve. To test if your pup has inherited natural retrieving tendencies toss a toy, ball, or a puppy-size canvas dummy a few feet in front of the pup. You are testing if he will go after it and bring it back to you. If he is not interested in retrieving or does not give up the object means you will need to spend time teaching this skill. Many dogs become just as eager and competent retrievers even though they may not start out with natural abilities.
The retrieving experience should be playful and fun for the pup. Take your dog to a field or park where you can throw a dummy for him to fetch, keeping him on a long lunge line. When throwing the dummy, enthusiastically tell him to fetch. As soon as he reaches the dummy and picks it up vigorously encourage him to return to you. The secret is to run away from your dog so that he has to chase you carrying the dummy. Do not get discouraged if your dog will not pick up the dummy. He can learn that skill when you teach him basic obedience. The training strategy is to teach your pup to come back to you when playing fetch even if it is without the dummy. Using a dog whistle for the return signal is recommended because the sound is more commanding than voice.
Before serious obedience training, it is important to allow your puppy time to adjust to the house rules, boundaries, and be introduced to the leash. Even though the brain of a pup is completely developed, the focus is scattered, and he will bounce from one activity to another. Your puppy will often drop off to sleep since physical growth takes so much of the energy.
The word no will be the most used word for the first few months. Remember, when reprimanding your dog you need to catch him in the act for him to understand the correction. Set up times when you actually let your dog do the misdeed so you can correct and teach him. Eventually just a firm no when he is tempted will be enough to stop any wrong moves.
The sit command is the second command I teach after teaching the dog to come back. If you teach your dog to sit every time he comes to you, it will stop problems of jumping on people. This can be taught in a soft manner as early as eleven weeks.
The first weeks and months is the time to instill a winning attitude in your dog. The result will be a puppy that wants to come back to you, who will listen to you, and who will be broken to the leash. Your retriever will be ready for formal training lessons at four months.
Both Chris Lowrey & Jean Smith are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Chris Lowrey has sinced written about articles on various topics from Ideas for Scrapbooking, Nutritional Supplements and Family. Author BiographyChris LowreyAuthor/Editor of Family Time CharmA truly unique family magazine.Family Time Charm is designed for the entire family.For more parenting articles, fun games for kids and educational activities for all, visit:. Chris Lowrey's top article generates over 6600 views. to your Favourites.
Jean Smith has sinced written about articles on various topics from Pets, Recreation and Sports and Pets. Jean Smith is a dog trainer specializing in training retrievers. She has condensed years ofexperience into two DVDs. Lessons