A Philosophy on Parenting

Posted on Saturday, April 21, 2012 · Leave a Comment

I am slowing forming my philosophy on parenting. I figure by the time he is 20 or so I should have a concrete philosophy. I have been looking up articles about parenting and I came across one I really like Just Parent, No Philosophy. Here is a quote from the piece:

"I believe the real reason that Gracie, her brothers and our kids all turned out O.K. is that it never really mattered whether they sucked it up or were coddled. What mattered was that their parents were all sitting on the bleachers that day. And on many, many (although certainly not all), other days as well. Whichever expert’s philosophy you feel most comfortable with, or whether you choose to make up your own, the single truth that applies to them all is that your kids need you to be on the metaphorical bleachers, cheering them on."

I think every parent is guided in the end by their beliefs on specific situations but it is of the utmost importance that we are there supporting them. I have found that my three year old boy just enjoys me sitting are or walking around with him. He loves to tell me about things and gage my reaction. "Can the Hulk beat up God?" or " From now on I am not talking a bath!" All comments are met with a lively response and usually a follow-up question or comment. With this exchange he is overjoyed, some times I can't believe thats it.

Right now he does not want to make gingerbread housing. He just wanted to each the cookies. And he does not need elaborate vacations for fancy toys. He wants open space, home cooked meals, and watching movies or tv with his favorite person (me). How do I know? I ask him and take what he says seriously. I will admit I dont always understand him.

He whines and does things and has no explanation which is frustrating, Think before you act! I find my self screaming "Don't tell me you don't know!" and "Didn't I say _______ ". I find myself wondering why he is such a boy and coming to terms that there are fundamental differences. I have every intention of raising a MAN: wild at heart. An kind hearted adventurer. A gentleman, the one that gets the girl (because he has shown that this is his preference; Gay men are MEN too) and treats her right. I want to understand him and help him understand himself and the world around him.

Here are some images I took on one of our adventures: