Dear Ones: Handbook for Parents

Dear Handbook for Parents by Janice Stroo In this handbook, parents will find four basic principles to raising happy, healthy, and successful children. These tenets direct parents to bring up their children in the best way possible. The first principle recognizes that each child is a unique, special creation. The second principle underscores the importance of treating each child with respect. The third principle examines the significance of encouraging children to pursue their dreams, and the fourth principle deals with discipline. The goal of this handbook is to teach parents how to love and help their children develop strong characters so that they can handle the storms of life. I grew up on a farm where WORK was the key to success. I didn't always like to work; therefore, in many ways I did not feel successful. However, I learned later in life, while pursuing my dream to teach, that when I aspired to an activity that I loved, it didn't seem like work. I married young--at nineteen. At that time, I thought I was ready for marriage. Guess what? I wasn't. I assumed that my husband would do things my way, which was the best way. Right? Apparently, he held the same notion regarding his ideas (Perhaps I was searching for a father/husband, because I did not have a good relationship with my father). This marriage was not ideal; it ended in divorce after several years and three kids. I became a single parent with three teens to feed and care for. Talk about a tough time. Wow! I learned as I went and grew stronger along the way. I did meet Mr. Right, which was wonderful, but he died young. I am now a widow, having experienced many different seasons in my time. I have gained knowledge from each experience, and presently, I enjoy a very fulfilling life!