With my own son turning 7 years old in just 4 short days...eek...the timing couldn't have been more aligned with my heart. I have recently been replaying the reel of emotional memories over and over in my mind... they are precious...they are humorous...sometimes scary... but overwhelming amazing!
Parenting a child, whether it's a boy or girl, is something God has given you the privilege to do. He has believed in you enough to give you an infant, in their pure and innocent state, to raise into a respectful man or woman of Christ.
It's not always a glamorous task...it's often hard and exhausting. But it is the most rewarding job...gift rather...that you will ever receive.
So what kind of advice would I offer? In seven years of parenting a boy here is what I have learned...
- Boys have an undeniable way of melting a mommies heart. So love on them as much as you can. No boy is too big to be hugged and kissed.
- Boys will be boys...let them be boys. But, don't be afraid if one day they get into your nail polish and want to paint their toes. Let them...or maybe do it for them! They are just exploring, and they'll go back to fighting their super heroes...with pink toenails to sport.
- I try to parent my son about the same way I parent my girls. Boys will just naturally like different things. Often they are more busy and less attentive, keep them entertained with toys that allow them to explore. Yes, even if they want a drum kit at 2 years old.
- Your son may not sit on your lap long, or color a picture like your friends' little girl whom you've decided to spend the afternoon with. And that's OK!!
- Teach them to be little men. It's never too early for manners. Please and Thank You's. Be gentle with girls. And let girls walk into the playroom or get on the bus first.
- Consistency is key! With both boys and girls. Establish a good routine early on. And when it comes to discipline follow through, follow through, follow through. They need to learn that when mom says no, that means no!
- And lastly...Listen. Even if it's just about a scrapped knee...because if you're too busy to not look their way when they say, "mommy", you may miss that one tender moment when they just want to turn to you and say...."I love you".
Ultimately parent instincts always kick in, listen to them. If you're reading this and you're new to the parenting thing...hang in there. You're doing great. And for the soon-to-be mom or dad...you're in for the most amazing journey of your life. You're going to do great!
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. ~Pslam 127:3
