Sometimes it is the deeply ingrained notions we’ve developed over time that stand in our way more than anything else. Parents want the very best for their children, but sometimes our assumptions can hold us back from parenting to the best of our ability.
Re-framing an old assumption can often do wonders toward improvement. Do any of these assumptions sound familiar to you?
1. It is primarily the school’s job to educate my child.
Much has been said about the antiquated model of education that was created to fit the needs of the industrial age yet still prevails today. Schools and teachers, both private and public, are trying to meet the challenge of educating children from many backgrounds.
What many parents seem to miss, however, is the opportunity they have to impact the education of their child from a young age.
For example, the simple act of setting up a home library and reading to children regularly can do more for a young child than their entire elementary career. Parents who seek out lessons for their children in all facets of life and allow their children to explore their interests deeply are giving them a truly great gift.
What if we shifted our thinking and saw school as a supplement to the education that happens at home? How would parents then define their roles, and what kinds of adults would their children grow to be?
2. It is essential for kids to participate in team sports.
There is a frenzy today of participation by very young kids in multiple team sports activities. Team sports can be great and the lessons that can be gleaned may also be positive, if the sport is managed with excellence.
However, team sports are not for every kid, and the benefits should be weighed against the oftentimes enormous time commitment required. There is an opportunity cost there. By spending all of that time on team sports, what other interests and pursuits are kids missing out on?
