Respect, generosity, communication and love are essential keys to a happy family life; a good beginning — one that is free from psychological turmoil and physical or emotional abuse. In most families, children reflect the state of their families’ well-being and that depends greatly on the way these little ones are treated, how they are taught to be generous, respectable, and lovable, whether directly or indirectly, and how well they communicate with one another.
Parents’ treatment is what family life depends highly upon. Children must be respected by their fathers and mothers. For example, parents should avoid using insulting words or harsh critical comments; instead they should use clear and direct language while asking their children to do something, especially the younger ones. Children of all ages need to feel love and appreciation in order to feel respected and function naturally.
Mothers and fathers should teach their children to give without asking for favors in return. A generous child grows into a helpful adult. This does not mean that a person should neglect himself or herself for the sake of others, but it is right to think of others and show them how much one care. All these sincere emotions are direct results of a loving-based family and are essential to build trust and respect among family members.
Lack of communication could be a major problem, if both parents are working and they do not share the remaining hours of the day with their children. Working parents should spend quality time with their youngsters, because quality is more important than quantity. Giving children time to discuss the events of their day and listening to their complaints may solve many of their problems. Playing games or coloring and painting also excites and stimulates them. Building good communication can also be established while enjoying a special dinner or participating in any housework or ball game, perhaps even while gathered in the living room watching a good TV show. Children should feel that, although their working parents are out of the house during the day, the parents are always there to ease and to comfort them. Children have to feel their parents’ tenderness and soft soothing touch — a magical one that is.
A successful family relationship should therefore be built on a basis of good treatment from the parents themselves because the children will indirectly learn and copy such positive behavior. Second, teaching the children how to care for others — to be generous in all ways, as well as directing them to be helpful and caring citizens and parents in the future. Lastly, the most important of all is to maintain a close loving relationship between the parents and their children, especially in those families where both parents work. Communication is the key to many doors; use it well and you will find the real meaning of happiness.
This message goes to both parents, especially fathers. Life will pass quickly and parents won’t realize it until their children are off to college away from home or getting married and becoming busy with their own families. Then it will be too late.
Love your children dearly and care for them; they are the real treasures of your life.