I picked this book up randomly at the library thinking I probably would just skim it or end up not reading it at all. I've had to renew it twice! I don't have a lot of time lately to leisure read, but have tried to squeeze in time here and there to get through this book. It has "in the LDS home" because it is written by an LDS author ad references a lot of prophets and apostles, but it is power parenting for ANY home. I have been so impressed with the topics and stories shared in this book and have gained some great insights as to how I can become a better parent and wife. There is so much that comes with becoming a parent and you kind of are just tossed into the experience to learn and grow with your children. There will be mistakes, there will be lost tempers, there will be messes, there will be tears, just count on it. But these will be the best of times, the times filled with joy, laughter, memories, love, learning and adventure. Parenting truly is he greatest adventure one can take.
Within this book are important topics that kids/youth replied to in a survey of what they would have appreciated more in their parents. Things that they felt were important but didn't get taught, or weren't held accountable for, weren't given the example for and would have enjoyed more. No parents perfect and no parent ever will be, but we all have a perfect father to look to for example. Heavenly Father is perfect and he loves us so much and desires our success and happiness. Some of the topics in the book include: Home Environment, Family Fun and Traditions, Children's Friends, Self-worth, Discipline, Movies, Expressing Love Verbally, Physical Affection, Underage Dating and more. I have truly gained such a testimony of the importance of leading by example with a 1 year old. They watch, observe and parrot everything they see. Being a good example and striving to teach our children the best principles is vital for their future and the future of our world. Parenting is the most important job on the planet and sometimes is treated as the least. It is left to teachers, youth leaders, television/media, and friends to raise our children. That is wrong and incorrect. When you bring a child into the world you have been assigned the great title of parent. It was your choice, whether you wanted or not, to bring a child to earth and you are the one to help nurture and raise them. If you take the sacred role of parent seriously you will learn life's greatest lessons, you'll become your best self, you'll learn true gratitude, selflessness and love. You will be a hero to your child/children. You will be what the world and your child need you to be! Parenthood is a privilege and blessing, and the hardest job ever. It is he thing that stretches you to your limits and to joy beyond compare. So take it seriously!
...and check this neato book out for some fun stories and advice how to work on becoming the parent your kiddos need!
