Pneumonics help us remember important points in memorization for school. Maybe this “PARENT” pneumonic will help emphasize the major components of excellent parenting.
    Praise. Giving recognition for the small moments of kindness, the acts of generosity, creativity, diligence, patience, or humor reinforce those traits. Lovingly offering appreciation for any positive action makes perpetuation of that act much more likely.
    Accept. Most humans perceive when others approve of and are comfortable with them. Sometimes, it is in a look, a tone of voice, or a thoughtless gesture that acceptance is communicated. Simply knowing that others wouldn’t want to change us creates a sense of calm and peace inside.
    Imagine buying a package of corn seeds. Would you throw them out when you open the package because they don’t look like a juicy ear of corn? Like seeds, children need time and nurturance to develop into the wonderful people they are all capable of becoming.
    Respect. We usually find it easy to be respectful of strangers on the phone, or in public. Don’t we owe it to our children to give them the same level of respect? A child’s self-esteem is built on the respect others show to them.
    Encourage. Believing in someone is the best motivator for productivity and success. Everyone can learn from their failures. See and encourage the possibility in children, and it will become reality.
    Notice. Paying attention to children lets them know they are important and valuable. Avenues open that would otherwise be blockaded. Greatness is only possible if someone special takes an interest and directs a child’s efforts with tender, loving guidance.
    Time. Spending time playing, doing what children enjoy most, teaches children that people are fun to know. They become more social, interactive, and in time, begin passing it forward to others.
    Say. Giving a child the freedom to express an opinion or make a decision cultivates wisdom. Opportunities to learn from poor choices when they are young, allows them to form principles to guide their decisions when they are more mature.
    A child’s self-worth and identity are vital to success in this high-speed, technological world we live in. Give your child the best chance possible. You’re training them for the time in your life when you may depend on them.