Posted on 19 March 2009 by Gina
It’s the final day of Guest Blogging on Swerve with the Kendra Golden. Don’t miss it!
Continuing the discussion from David Staal’s book, Words Kids Need to Hear. Here is #5 of 7 things my kids need to hear from me.
#5…
“Because”
Here are my takeaways…
- …the difference between a boy or girl just hearing your voice and actually believing what you say depends on whether or not you provide an authentic rationale – the words you add after you say, “because”.
- This word, used effectively as the start of a reasoned, rational statement, offers you a unique opportunity to make your messages powerful.
- How can a child distinguish a parent’s authentic affirmation, commitment, or affection from the hollow hype she hears virtually everywhere else?
- It’s time for we parents to take back authenticity – one “because” at a time
Does your child take what you say to heart?
Posted on 18 March 2009 by Gina
I’m Guest Blogging this week with on Swerve with the Kendra Golden. Don’t miss it!
The chapter that impacted me the most from David Staal’s book, Words Kids Need to Hear. Here is #4 of 7 things my kids need to hear from me.
#4…
“I’m sorry, please forgive me”
Here are my swift kicks in the behind…
- Authentic authority flows from respect, and sincere apologies foster the connectedness and trust that is necessary for it to lovingly evolve.
- Children tend to treat people the way they are treated.
- The humility we need comes from a simple truth – everyone messes up and has reasons to apologize. Even to kids. When you approach life convinced of your fallibility, a humble attitude will follow. Just don’t get arrogant about it.
- If the thought “I should apologize” comes to mind, then act on it; that’s your heart talking.
- Act sooner than later. An apology sometimes arrives too late to have full impact.
- Speak clearly and concisely. Limit your words. Work hard to resist the urge to offer excuses and preserve the power of the moment.
- Disappointment with mom or dad is tough for a kid to handle.
- Parents need to give children opportunities to develop an ability to freely forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.
I needed a breather after that chapter.
