How to Ten Easy Rules on Be a Great Mother in a Challenging World

The best job in the world being a mom is also the perhaps hardest but also the most rewarding. Here are some of my suggestions on those days when you need them most. Your kids will love you for them!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Unconditional love
• Lots of TLC - show them that you really love them
• Patience
• Understanding
• Empathy
• Great Listening skills
• Ability to relate to them
• A relaxed attitude.
• Be authoritative, but not authoritarian.
• Develop a sense of trust in your child(ren).

1. Children need your love. * Listen to what you kids have to say, let them express themselves and then add your comments.
   * Lift them up at every opportunity and praise them for their accomplishments.
   * Respect their individuality and give them their space when appropriate.
2. Be a pillar of support for your kids. * Teach them respect for parents, elders, authority, especially for God.
   * Let them cultivate healthy friendships at school, church, social gatherings and maintain these friendships.
   * Let them know that you support them and will be there for them not only when they need you but when you can afford to spend quality time with them.
3. Set the tone and be a great example by walking the walk and talking the talk. * Then spend the quality time with them by letting them know you care for them for whatever they may be going through or simply be there to spend valuable time with them.
   * Create a sense of empathy for your kids, try at least walking in their shoes and put yourself in their position, especially in challenging and difficult times like at school.
   * Last, but not least, teach your kids the importance of honesty being the best policy. Telling the truth at all times and not make false claims to anything. This they will value and show great care to ensure that their lives are productive and fun.

Tips & Warnings

• Motherhood can be flustering and can exhaust your reserves but by having a great attitude and loving what you do can help to make mothering easier and your kids will know it and love you for it.
• You can be a friend to your kid but know where to draw the line between buddy or friend on the street. Help your child to see you as someone to whom respect is to be given and expect them to give it to you without compromise.