Words of Wisdom

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Designed by Kelley McKnight, these parenting advice cards have been a joy to read. Here are some our favorite tips:

• Fill his world with books. Don't let him eat toothpaste. Encourage learning, education, exploration, and adventure. Make sure he knows he is everything to you. Do not drop hints - show him and tell him. (Patti Charron, Mama)

• Have the same unconditional love for Hamilton as you receive from Rosie, Bob, your mom, and me...regardless of the circumstances. Embrace the many incredible joys and achievements you will experience and learn from the mistakes. You are at the beginning of another wonderful ride. (Ken Charron, Daddy)

• Be the major part of your child's life. That means spend as much time as possible with them - even when they get older - like we do now. (Bob Haydock, Dad)

• Love your child like there is no tomorrow - not with things (that's for grandparents!), but with your whole being: your eyes, your ears, your arms, and especially your heart. "I love you as much as the world" has always been one of our favorite sayings - it never gets old! (Rosemary Haydock, Mom)

• Don't take your kids for granted. They love you unconditionally. Cherish every moment with them. The time goes by fast. Always tell them you love them. (Chris Arnold)

• Laugh. Play. Enjoy. Soak up every smile, laugh, giggle, tantrum, and tear. Say "I love you" as much as possible and always give hugs and kisses. (Danielle Arnold)

• Always make him sleep in his bed. (Beverly White)

• It is ok (and fun) to spoil him, but be firm when necessary and be together on your decisions. (Lonny White)

• Try to establish good sleeping habits early. Take pictures every day. (Sarah Brewer)

• Always have Mommy - Daddy time. Enjoy your precious baby and all the wonderful moments you will share, but remember to utilize your sitters to the fullest. Grandparents are great educators, and they love to spoil them. (Kim Quinlan)

• Help them to do for themselves. Let them make decisions and respect their choices. A successful parent will work him/herself out of a job. (Rose Hardin)

• Stay calm...use a soft, soothing tone. Only raise your voice when you really need to be firm. When you say "no," enforce it ~ but try to say "yes" more than "no!" (Cecilia Hennemann)

• Always look for the positive! (Brenda Withrow)

• Remember when your parents are giving you advice about raising your children, it is out of love. (Vicki Knipp)

• You can't love a baby too much. Let everything go and spend time with the baby. (Kathryn Friedrich)

• Follow your heart and love him unconditionally! (Barbara Gregory)

• Enjoy every minute. (Stephanie Gregory)

• Everything is a "phase!" When in doubt, put on Bach or Mozart. Rub a little bourbon on those teething gums. Keep date nights for yourselves. (Carolyn Veigl)

• If you truly love him, save your money and send him to St. X. (Therese Rabatin)

• In the early years, read to your child and they will develop a love of reading. (Bonnie Johnson)

• In the teenage years, if their mouth is moving, assume they are lying and proceed with caution. (John Johnson)

• Take any advice graciously, but always follow your heart. Remember your love for each other came first and allow your son to see it as well as share it. (Michelle Crow)

• It is ok to spoil them - they don't stay young for long. (Brenda Didier)

• Just love the little guy. That's all. You two have great parents as role models, so you will do fine. (Judy Hertel)

• Don't sweat the small stuff. Be patient and calm and your little baby will be patient and calm. Also, never hesitate to ask your family and friends for help when you need to take a nap! (Amanda Vallandingham)

• Just love him and cherish him. (Lindsey Hertel)

• Lots of love and snuggles. At the age of 2, put all prescription drugs under lock and key. Keep syrup of ipecac on hand - along with the Poison Control number. Keep car keys under lock and key also. Driving at the age of 2 is scary! (The Houks)

• Don't listen to anyone tell you that holding him will spoil him. They grow so fast - you'll wish you could have held them longer. (Susan Burch)

• Lots of hugs and kisses...and then more hugs and kisses. (Cathy Cook)

• Raise him in the way of the Lord. Discipline him in a loving manner. Help him in education and recreation. But most of all - love him. (Jim Wilson)

• Read, read, read - starting as soon as he comes home. Write down the funny things he'll say or do - I can assure you won't remember! (Karen Wilson)

• "Yes" is SO much easier than "no." Choose your battles. (Tami Wolfsen)

• Love them so they know why you say and do what you say and do. (Bill Wolfsen)

• Be consistent. Be flexible. Keep your sense of humor through the tough times. (Jill Charron)

• Keep a journal of life's little surprises, achievements, an milestones. Be consistent! (Don Frutchey)
  

• Try your best not to be a helicopter parent. An anxious parent raises an anxious child. (Julie Frutchey)