Raising Kids is Easy

… Until You Try It” by Mark Rivenbark | Jan 4, 2019

“Everybody knows how to raise children, except the people who have them”. -P. J. O’Rourke

When I think about the journey involved in raising two very different children it seems like a blur. The joy and the sorrow kind of melt together and I’m just left feeling grateful.

But if I’m pressed for some keys to giving children the best chance for success I’ll go with:

· Upbringing

· Access to Opportunities

· Education.

It sounds easy when you say it fast. And I suppose the task is easier for some parents. But for me it was always a challenge as I had no idea what I was doing. And there were days I would have rather been a lion tamer than a dad.

So, for what it’s worth I’m going to share some of my thoughts on the topic of raising kids.

Upbringing

One key element in my view when raising well-rounded children is the establishment of a rock solid support system at home. My wife and I, along with our extended family, wanted our children to experience satisfaction as they achieved their goals and ambitions.

Sadly, my children, one with learning challenges; did not always enjoy the level of support they needed. Finding support for children with learning challenges is not always easy. As parents we have to fight for their rights to access the support they need.

I would like to believe that my wife and I did our best to instill confidence in our children as they charted a direction in their lives. This was meant to be part of the preparation for a rewarding life, along with their formal education. Looking back, I think three things that stand out for me regarding parenting are:

· Consistency

· Persistence

· Commitment (over the long haul).

Read more: “Raising Kids is Easy, Until You Try It” | by Mark Rivenbark | Medium