Mommy Moments - Parenting Tips

Even though we've been parents for almost 13 years now, we still have lots to learn. This week's topic in MM is very dear to me as I'm always interested in listening to other parent's sharing tips with one another.

I have two "would-be teen-age boys", the most sensitive stage. Which means I should be more understanding, more sensitive, more patient, more firm, and more caring.

From the very start, I made sure I am approachable to my kids. I try to know what it is that they like, what it is that they hate, and try to read their minds and actions. I tried my best to act as one of their friends (with authority). I also make it a point that I share my thoughts and feelings with them. So through the years, we've developed a good communication line.

I learned that it is important to practice what you preached. Blaine Bartel wrote is his Big Black Book for Parents that parents should model the following actions for their teens:

1. Be Polite. Treat others with respect. Say please and thank you. Also remember, dads: Ladies first.
2. Smile. Show off those pearly whites. This small gesture will go a long way.
3. Share. This unselfish act is pack with power.
4. Listen. Give others your full attention. They will appreciate the investment.
5. Lend a hand. Mow the lawn for an elderly neighbor, or send a card to a relative you have been praying for.
6. Give a gift. There doesn't have to be a special reason, but the best reason of all is to simply say, "I care about you."

We may not notice it, but our children especially our teens, are watching us and they learn from us - parents!

They're Growing Up!

We were strolling in a mall one Sunday afternoon when I noticed my sons as they walked ahead of me. They have grown up and I didn't even noticed it.



My eldest son's already responsible to take care of his siblings.

There are times when they wanted to go out with their friends. (without me tagging along). At first I have hesitations, because for me, they will always be my babies. And babies need their mothers. But, in the end, I still gave them my permission.


I know there are a lot of things they should learn especially now that they're growing up. But, as their mother, I still want to hold-on to them. I wanted to be with them in every step of the way. I wanted to know what they're doing in every minute, second of their lives. Reality is...... I can't be!

Experience is still the best teacher. I only pray and hope that the values they've learned and continue learning from us, as parents and as friends, will guide them through.

Hope and pray that they'll grow up to be GOOD men.

Ask Momma Wednesday

My youngest son will soon turn 7y.o. I may have spoiled him or overly protective of him because he is the youngest. Now, he seems like scared to try new things (scared to do it on his own). He doesnt want to join even in party games!(although he likes attending parties) What would I do to him?

Parenting Our Teen

I received a book from my sister on my birthday entitled "The Big Black Book for Parents (helping your teen navigate through life's challenges)". Since I'll be having teenage boys very soon, I'd like to share with you some things that I've read from this book.

Six actions every parent should MODEL for their teen:

1. Be Polite. Teach others with respect. Say please or thank you. Also remember, dads: ladies first.

2. Smile. Show off those pearly whites. This small gesture will go a long way.

3. Share. This unselfish act is packed with power.

4. Listen. Give others your full attention. They will appreciate the investment.

5. Lend a hand. Mow the lawn for an elderly neighbor, or send a card to a relative you have been praying for.

6. Give a gift. There doesn't have to be a special reason, but the best reason of all is simply say, "I care about you."


Source: The big black book for parents
by Blaine Bartel

Our children are very observant. They watches us on everything that we do. They even imitate us and idolizes us. As parents, it is just right to set a good example for them to follow. As Ben Franklin said, "A good example is a good servmon."

Happy parenting!