The answer to this query is simply "No." Although most parents aspire to be the best, it is a fact that none of us can claim to have mastered the art of parenting to perfection. However, with honest intentions, genuine interest, and a determined effort, we can all aspire to be good, if not perfect parents.

Good or nearly perfect parenting entails empowering our kids to cope with the daily challenges of life. It entails bestowing on them exclusive gifts of a healthy body, a sound mind and a noble character. Let us now examine some of the most important tools parents can focus on while keeping their child’s complete development in mind:-  

~ Developing character
~ Forming good habits
~ Setting a good example
~ Administering TLC
~ Enforcing discipline
~ Maintaining harmony
~ Instilling work ethics

 Developing Character

Character essentially entails having an inbuilt desire for good and navigating one’s life with a good moral compass at all times.  True pride and success comes with the development of character; in the knowledge of an honest effort to do what is right in all circumstances. This is one of the most important tool parents can equip their child with by creating and nurturing the character-building process early on in life. Let us teach our children that to attain real happiness, they do not always need an abundance of material things, wealth or fame.

 Forming Good Habits

Wise parents understand the importance of forming good habits right from an early age. The seeds of good habits are sown in the child’s first year including habits of sleeping, eating and obedience. The development of such habits is an important part of early care. And this early care is a deciding factor in determining how the child will grow up to be, as an adult. Parents do help your child to form good habits.

Setting an Example

Parent’s good example will pave the way for their children and guide them to move in the right direction. Good examples are set in the home, long before children attend school. What parents do and say will have a significant influence on their children’s behavior. This ultimately will result in how they live. Children continuously watch their parents and observe their habits, how they inter-act with others and how they react in crisis. Your good example is the most powerful thing you can do to help your child.  

 Administering Tender Loving Care

All children irrespective of their age, constantly need tender loving from their parents. Love is the magic potion on which children thrive and succeed better in life physically, mentally, intellectually, socially and emotionally. Loving parents will help their children find a sense of purpose and direction, exercise control over their emotions and learn to get along well with others. However, loving does not entail always letting children have their own way

 Enforcing Discipline  

Discipline is the bedrock of character building. It is important that in every home, a few ground rules are followed It has been observed that children are actually more comfortable and secure under proper discipline and training than if they are allowed to freely do as they please. Wise parents quickly learn to maintain the right balance between firm discipline and loving indulgence. Parents need to be consistent while enforcing these rules or else, children will end up being confused.

Maintaining Harmony

Parents who maintain loving harmony between themselves have a great impact on their children’s upbringing. They may not always agree with each other, but they can tactfully work together on a common goal manifesting love and respect for each other. Children do better in life when they observe their parents working together lovingly for their good. Parents would do well not to criticize each other or discuss their grievances in the presence of their children.

 Instilling Work Ethics

 Honest work is a blessing. It is the parent’s responsibility to instill work ethics in their children. In every home, each member of the family must share the work in its proper functioning. At times, parents tend to make the mistake of making life too easy for their children. This does them more harm than good in the long run. Work along with children. Children can develop only when they learn to take on responsibility.

 Conclusion

Parents, let us remember that the heart of the family, the community and the nation is the home. Striving with interest, devotion and commitment to be a good, near perfect parent can reap rich dividends. Successfully raised children are generally well-developed in all aspects of human development. They are a valuable asset to any family, community and the nation. Let us together strive to be parents our nation will be proud of.

Children are our most valuable natural resource. They are our priceless heritage. It is indeed, downright outrageous, deeply painful and exceedingly shameful that any adult could possibly and deliberately abuse a child, in any form, degree or circumstance. Did you know that as per research estimates, over one million children in United States experience some form of abuse or neglect and this trend today continues to be on the rise at an alarming rate?  

Let us examine some of the focal issues pertaining to Child Abuse:  

Who are the children at risk for Child Abuse?  

It has been ascertained by leading Psychologists that child abuse is the result of factors that might have occurred at one stage or the other, in the life of the perpetrator himself. Children who are at maximum risk and most often abused by an aggressor, are generally the parent, caregiver, a close family member or anyone who has the easiest access to children. It has been documented that child-abuse is often conducted in the garb and under the pretext of disciplining children.  

What are the varied forms of child-abuse?  

Here are some common forms of child-abuse:  

*Verbal Abuse*—- when use of foul language and swearing is constantly used.  

*Physical Abuse*—- when brute force is used like beatings, bruises, choking and head injuries.  

*Sexual Abuse*—-when either a girl child or boy child is involved.  

*Emotional Abuse*—- which is demoralizing and demeaning to a child’s ego.  

What risk factors trigger child-abuse?  

One research theory states that the adults who habitually abuse children, might have been themselves abused or maltreated as children and been victims of broken homes. Often such parents or care-givers, have no idea that they are the source of excessive damage to their children’s mental, physical and emotional well-being. Factors like stress, low self- esteem, extreme life-changes, history of poverty and unemployment, strained marital relationship are also significant at risk factors that trigger this kind of dangerously inhuman behavior.  

Who can determine the need for intervention by the authorities?  

It is our duty as responsible adults to report this matter at the earliest to Child Protection Services as soon as one recognizes the signs of abuse in any household or situation.  

Identifying such at-risk-families, families wherein one or both parents could be an alcoholic or drug addict is of prime importance. Timely intervention is the key. This is the moral duty of each one of us.  

How can child abuse be assessed?  

In most cases, child abuse begins with *neglect*—-which is also one form of abuse. However, its effect is the worst; children who are subjected to ‘isolation’ suffer from ‘deprivation’ which creates a sense of ‘void’ in their lives. Parental neglect or lack of communication tends to make children vulnerable and anti-social and this sows the seeds of moral degradation.   It could drive children out of their homes and land them into deep trouble—-which could be most damaging to their young lives.  

Conclusion  

Child Abuse is not just a legal issue but more emphatically a ‘humane’ one. We cannot simply underestimate the importance of strong parental support, continual moral guidance and strong value system.  

Let us all right-thinking individuals resolve to combat this menace of child abuse. Let us not tolerate child-abuse in any form or manner, in any society, state or country. Let us not forget the words of late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, “If you bungle raising your children, I don’t think that whatever else you may do well, matters very much.”

Discipline is one of the essential factors for Child Development. It is the bedrock of children’s all-round growth. It is a vital element; the basis, on which to build well-balanced lives in all aspects of Child Development--- emotionally, physically, socially, and intellectually.  

What Parents can do to Discipline their Children?

Parents, you are your child’s first and most important teacher. You have the power to enforce discipline in a firm, fair and loving way; rediscover the intrinsic value of discipline; bear in mind that this entails ‘control.’  You need to understand that this imposed control, no less than love, food, and shelter is essential for your child’s mental, physical and emotional health. Here are some basic guidelines to help you to discipline your child:

Set Limits:  

It is absolutely important to set limits to your child’s behavior at home. For this, children need to understand and follow certain ground rules. They need to know that there are limits to what they are permitted to do and that they must face the consequences of their good or bad behavior. By setting firm, fair, explicit and consistent limits, children learn an important lesson in their development stage. They soon realize that although it is O.K. to feel angry, sad or jealous, it’s not O.K. to hurt their own selves or others. Often, imposing discipline in this manner proves to be a more effective tool than plain reasoning.  

Be consistent:  

Parents need to have a consistent approach to discipline. If you give in too easily one day, and become strict the next day, you will tend to confuse your child. Saying “no” requires that you abide by it consistently. Parents need to guard against tolerating their child’s destructive behavior by loving firmness and not hard punishment. Discipline and punishment need not always go hand-in-glove. At best, parents can demonstrate loving acceptance of their child coupled with consistent firm rejection of his/her bad behavior. At the same time, parents need to recognize and reinforce their child’s good behavior with a word of praise and encouragement.  

Establish Routine:  

Children, who have an established routine to follow, are known to fare well academically and in all aspects of their daily lives. Being fully aware of their parental expectations, these children soon adjust to following a daily plan especially when their parents are persistent. It is best to choose the right moment—-when you have your child’s full attention, to state your expectations. This makes it easier for your child to follow specific practical instructions like completing his/her homework before dinner or helping to set or clear the table after family meals.  

Teach responsibility:  

Children need to be taught to be responsible for their behavior. They primarily need to learn that actions have consequences; good or bad behavior can likewise have good or bad consequences. Children, who are allowed to run their home by doing how and what they please, are not learning the important lesson of responsibility. At times, parents may find it easier to indulge their children rather than take time and patience to foster discipline. However, they need to remember that this ‘indulgence’ can do more harm than good.  

In Conclusion:  

Every parent can choose their own disciplining style depending on their child’s temperament and individual needs. But no matter what techniques you follow, there is nothing more worthwhile for children, than learning discipline through the good example of their parents. Disciplining takes a lot of hard work; but it pays rich dividends when the basic important requisites are followed. Ultimately it is these children, who will make their parents proud when they become responsible, contributing and successful adults.

Raising children continues to be the most important and perhaps the most difficult of life’s work. If our children fail, if they demonstrate bad behavior, if they grow up to be social misfits, perhaps to a large extent, it is the parents who are responsible. However, most good parents may not even be aware if and where they may have gone wrong. Let us consider WHY.

Undoubtedly, all parents want the very best for their child. But today, in our high-tech, fast-paced society, when both the parents are working, it has been noted by experts that our children’s emotional needs tend to take the back seat -- -after all of their primary needs are met with.  

As parents are the most powerful influence in their children’s lives, they would do well to remember that their role is to ease their child’s journey through life, by encouragement and unqualified acceptance of who they are. They need to understand that it takes time, effort and commitment on their part, to teach their children important and valuable lessons in good behavior.  

Parents: Here below are some of the focal points which needs to be looked into:-

~Stages of Development:

According to Marie Montessori, the First stage of childhood is characterized by the “Absorbent Mind.” This means that a child absorbs a great deal of knowledge from his environment spontaneously, without any conscious effort, simply by living in it. Hence it is vital that the child’s environment is conducive to positive learning. That means children will imbibe everything—-including all that is good and worthwhile from their parents. So parents please do not forget that ‘Children are the samples of our examples.’—John Dewey

~Child’s Sensitive Period:

In the intermediate or middle years, when the child strives to move towards full, harmonious development in every direction-- - physically, mentally, socially and spiritually, we may find certain deviations from the normal pattern of behavior. The years 9-12 often referred to as the “sensitive” period, are indeed the most crucial and significantly influential years in molding the child's adult personality. Sadly, it has been noted by research psychologists that this is the period when children are most widely overlooked or neglected.  

~Motives of Bad Behavior:

When parents fail to understand the motives behind their children’s bad or wrong behavior, their children tend to end up in dangerous and disastrous situations. For example, a child who feels neglected may have been looking for some signs of interest and concern from his parents. If this is not forthcoming from the parents, out of ignorance or indifference, these kids become engulfed with a sense of ‘void’ in their young lives. This void- – - feelings of emptiness in children’s young lives, leads them to rebel, manifest bad behavior, form gangs or even indulge in dangerous ‘escapades!’

~The Adolescent years:

Parental awareness to the situation and efficient handling early-on could have prevented further acceleration of the problem – - especially when the child enters the precarious period of adolescence. At this stage, some parents in their utter helplessness may seek the help from professionals, psychologists and psychiatrists to take over and mend the lapses which they themselves, unknowingly created in the first place. However, a word of caution: Parents do try first to discuss with your child within the confines of your home, to find an amicable solution to the problem. Please do pool in your best efforts, time and consideration. If this does not help, only then seek outside professional help..

~What Parents can do:

To begin with, parents at no time should demonstrate their helplessness to their child. Next, it is vitally important for parents to set ‘limits’ to their children’s behavior at home. By setting firm, fair, explicit and consistent limits, children learn some important lessons in their development stage. Prime-time parents are always on their guard and ready to monitor their children’s destructive impulses; do not allow these to grow by way of ‘tolerance.’ At such times, tolerating bad behavior is detrimental to our children’s moral growth.

~What parents must insist:

Parents must insist that their children understand and follow certain ground rules. Children need to know that there are limits to what they are permitted to do and that they must face the consequences of their good or bad behavior. They must realize that although it is O.K. to feel angry, sad or jealous, it’s not acceptable, no matter what the circumstances, to hurt their own selves or others.  

~In conclusion:

As parents we must not forget our responsibility to our children. We must bear in mind that children’s development at home takes precedence in importance and structure to the development at school. We must be committed to building a strong relationship with our children. We must actively contribute to building our children’s self-esteem and self-confidence.  

By enforcing positive values and acceptable standards of good behavior, parents can ensure that their children will never go wrong. It is only then, that we can be certain that our children will refrain from demonstrating bad behavior. It is only then, that our children will become well-adjusted, happy and successful adults while striving to  be responsible and contributing citizens.  

Parents: Do not fail to use your power to empower your children.

“Education is not a preparation of life; education is life itself” - - John Dewey.  

Education plays a significant role in all aspects of human development. The necessity of good education is more vital today than ever before. Education is important as it is empowering; it is a mark of personal development and a preparation for the future. It is the cornerstone of our children’s success. What really is the purpose of education?

The purpose of all education is growth; the growth of one's mind and the direction it follows, is the key to your child’s success. Most parents are keen that their children do well academically. However, success is largely dependent on the child’s ability to study effectively and efficiently. Active involvement by parents in providing a solid foundation of learning can make a big difference. Parents cannot afford to take the back seat. They need to create a secure, stimulating and rich environment to promote their child’s intellectual development.  

Here below are some practical suggestions that can help your child in the right direction:-

   Begin with the right attitude:  

Having the right parental attitude can help your child to better understand the value of good education. When you as a parent, show keen interest in your child’s academic performance, when you periodically monitor the time your child is devoting to homework and studies, your child will automatically get the message that education is of primary importance. He/she will then make an extra effort to concentrate, work hard and do better.  

Having this mindset in the early stages of child development is crucial. The early childhood years are the most exciting years of building up the foundations of human intelligence. The lessons learned and the habits formed at this ‘delicate’ stage, have more to do with the formation of character and direction of life than all the educational training of after years.  

Encourage Good Performance:

All children need to be encouraged and supported in this most important quest in their life’s journey. Parents can encourage their child to academically perform better by stressing the importance of good grades and allowing their child to think out solutions to problems themselves. This will help their child to develop his/her IQ to its fullest potential.  

Wise parents consistently help their child to excel in subjects that interest him or her. This does not mean that your child has to be the best student in his or her class; however, he/ she will strive for their own personal best when parents actively demonstrate its value.

Inculcate good study habits:  

Good study habits formed in the early stages of child development will make it easier for your child to follow it in the later school years. Set aside a certain time each day for study and homework and teach your child the value of time and punctuality in submitting the homework and assignments.  

Ensure that your child has a quiet, well-lit area for his/her study. Making this a daily routine will be beneficial to your child in the later years. It would certainly be wise for parents to instill in their child the reading habit and encourage them by their own example, to make good use of the public library.

Remember: No problem child:

Parents must understand that there are no problem children, but only a child with a problem. Parents need to take upon themselves to work jointly with their child’s teacher and find out the real cause of the child’s bad behavior or failing grades to help solve their child’s problem, if and when the need arises.  

Although children’s IQ levels and talents may vary,  it would be helpful to remember that education does not attempt to make a dull boy very smart; however, its aims is to make each student use his/her latent potential to the fullest extent. All parents therefore need to guide their child in the right direction:_to think, perceive, observe and learn._  

In Conclusion:  

It has been noted by some educationists that the two greatest indicators of academic achievement are the home environment and parental support. Supportive parents greatly contribute to the academic success of their child.  

Parents who have impressed upon their child the importance of education; who have taken time and interest to teach their child good study skills, can seldom go wrong.  Their children will most likely find no learning difficulties—- as these; will be forever etched in their adult lives.

Thank you for your visit and time. I look forward to your valuable comments/ suggestions/ queries. Feel free to contact me--I'll make myself available for you if you'd like to make use of my experise and insights.

Today, the world has become highly competitive in every aspect of human endeavor. The healthiest competition occurs when average people win by putting on above average effort. Schools play a significantly important role in shaping the lives and destinies of students. The students of today will soon be the citizens of tomorrow. It is of vital importance that students tap their latent potential to their fullest extent and compete with fellow students to achieve a high level of performance. This will enable them to face the challenges and compete in the global arena as adults. This initial groundwork at the school level will help students to cope with the harsh realities of competitiveness in their adult lives.

Schools as training grounds:  

Schools serve as excellent training grounds for inspiring students to work hard, perform and do their very best. The competitive element in the classroom, spur the students on; motivate them to give it their best shot and work harder at attaining their respective goals. This all-important factor, enthuses students to become goal-oriented while achieving a higher level of academic performance.  

Teaches balance:

Most schools ensure that that the students maintain a sense of balance in all their academic endeavors. Schools understand the negative aspects of goading students to perform beyond their capacity, which could drive them to experience frustration and failure. Hence most teachers in schools encourage students to perform in proportion to his/her capabilities. Parents can help their children to maintain this balance while helping their children to improve.  

Triggers progress:

Healthy competition in an academic or athletic environment is the basic ingredient to progress. It serves as an incentive and triggers excellence. By setting a high level of performance standard, the academic and athletic levels of students and the overall standard of schools are raised. Schools strive to improve the students’ performance and scores through competitiveness. Thus good schools flourish and are highly sought after. On the other hand, not-so-good schools work harder to improve their scores and ratings. This state of competitiveness raises the overall standards of schools.  

Competition is a BIG part of success:

Life is full of challenges. Competition is a big part of it. The value of competition is tremendous as long as it is based on the precept of fair play. Competition instills a sense of responsibility, builds character, generates self-esteem and inculcates team-spirit. This is the highest kind of training that could be reinforced in any school. This ‘competitive spirit’ and its underlying concept, is what makes the best and most successful students. Successful students will be our most valuable workers, the finest human resources of our Nation.

In conclusion:

Colin Powell, Former U.S. Secretary of State sums it all very aptly: “In this extraordinary time for the world, remarkable progress in every sector has been made possible based on this relentless spirit, the ‘competitive spirit’ which urges one to stretch beyond the realms of average expectations in search of excellence