What are the major influences on American youngsters? The home, school, and church would have been correct answers years ago. But now the influence of television and the internet must be added high on the list, in many cases second only to the parents. Indeed, many young parents today, who are themselves products of the TV and internet generation, are permitting their children to become TV and internet addicts. [Read more…] about Lessening TV’s destructive influence on children

Breakfast in bed, a snooze in the hammock, and picnics in the park are some of the amenities dads will enjoy this Father’s Day, that yearly occasion for excusing dad from yard work and household chores to relax with his family, is also a time to give him some special recognition.

What makes a father worthy of those trophies which read, “To the World’s Greatest Dad”?  Is it the new bike, or shoes, or toys he bought?  Is it the trips he took with the family?  Is it the music, swimming, or dancing lessons he pays for?

These things can be highly important to young children and they’re often a primary expression of a father’s love for them.  But don’t “the world’s greatest dads” give of themselves – not just give things?  Aren’t they the fathers who consistently work at their relationship with their children and refuse to let themselves become too busy? [Read more…] about Father’s Day is more than snoozing in a hammock

“Operation Sail was the most spectacular event of the century,” I read aloud to my small son as we poured over a book with photographs of the gigantic sailing ships which paraded up the Hudson River. Gazing into the distance, I regretfully admitted, “And we missed it!”

The little seven-year old broke into my disappointment with “Don’t you remember the sunrise we saw last summer?” That, he claimed, was the most spectacular event of the year! [Read more…] about Big thrills for small children

Qualities: A genuine love for children is essential. Also, you need to have, or to cultivate, unselfishness, organization, compassion, resourcefulness, and a sense of humor. It’s a job for those capable of watchful caring and cherishing their responsibilities.

Training: No training is required although work as a baby sitter, camp counselor, teacher, or other experience with young children is helpful. You will learn by your mistakes and by reading what others say about child rearing. You should think about the methods your parents used and apply only what you value to this job. [Read more…] about Wanted: Full-Time Homemaker, part 2