Good Parent Definition

“Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person’s character lies in their own hands” (Anne Frank). The American Heritage Dictionary defines the word good as, “Of moral excellence; upright,” and the word parent as, “A person who raises a child.” These words alone give little indication of what being a good parent really entails. A good parent is more than just a mother or a father who raises a child. As a mother of three, I strive to be what my definition of a good parent is to my children. Parents are role models and instillers, present and active in their child’s life, and undeniably love their child or children. As a mother, I see how my children watch and imitate my actions and my words. …show more content…
Activities that involve the entire family are a great way to bring parents and children together, away from the stress of the world, to just let loose and have fun. Ways of doing such, are family game night once a week or family movie night. The kids love this alone time without the stress and pressure of school, chores, or even fighting amongst themselves. Also, when financially able to do so, we plan fun weekend getaways. Our most recent was a weekend trip to St. Louis to see the City Museum and Grants Farm. While activities are a great way to stay involved in our children’s lives, open communication is just as important. Although asking, “How was your day?” is a great start, really engaging them in conversation is most effective. I ask questions such as, “What did you learn today?”, and “What behavior color did you get, and if any color other than green, what behaviors or actions were the cause of this?” Once an engaging conversation is established, they are more forthcoming about the day without ever realizing it, and they enjoy the conversation just as much I …show more content…
Yes, parents will say they love their children, but without actions and assurances to prove so, the word love has no merit. Children deserve unquestionable, undeniable love. Though these actions may seem small and pointless to an adult, to a child they could mean the world. Most nights, not all, myself and my three kids cuddle together in my bed and read a bedtime story. This has come to be something they look forward to. However, on the weekends we often fall asleep cuddled on the couch watching a movie. No words just simple affection. In addition to these actions, a child needs verbal assurance that he/she is loved as well. Telling a child, he/she is loved when in trouble is extremely important. This is a time when their feelings have been hurt, so reassuring them they are loved regardless of their actions is key. I feel telling my children, “I love you” every morning when I wake them, and every night when they go to bed is conducive to them knowing how much I love them. A child should never question if their parent loves them or