A Child's Ten Commandments to Parents

My Mom was cleaning out her classroom and found a framed list of "A Child's Ten Commandments to Parents" and I thought I'd share. I can already pick out a few that I am going to need some help with, like #3. I have a tendency to constantly clean (although I never feel like my house looks it) while I am at home. I need to spend less time cleaning and more time playing and loving on my family.

1. My hands are small. Please don't expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture or throw a ball. My legs are short, please slow down so that I can keep up with you.

2. My eyes have not seen the world as yours have. Please let me explore safely; don't restrict me unnecessarily.

3. Housework will always be there. I'm only little for a short time. Please take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.

4. My feelings are tender. Please be sensitive to my needs, don't nag me all day long. (You wouldn't want to be nagged for your inquisitiveness). Treat me as you like to be treated.

5. I am a special gift from God. Please treasure me as God intended you to do, hold me accountable for my actions, giving me the guidelines to live by, and discipline me in a loving manner.

6. I need your encouragement, but not your praise, to grow. Please go easy on the criticism; remember you can criticize the things I do without criticizing me.

7. Please give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to to fail, so that I can learn from my mistakes. Then some days, I'll be prepared to make the kind of life decisions life requires of me.

8. Please don't do things over for me. Somehow that makes me feel that my efforts didn't measure up to your expectations. I know it's hard, but please don't compare myself with my brother or sister.

9. Please don't be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacation from parents, just as parents need vacation for kids. Besides, it is a great way to show us kids that your marriage is very special.

10. Please take me to Sunday school and church regularly, setting example for me to follow. I enjoy learning more about God.

From the Pen of Betty Bland.