What Do Kids Need Today?

Do you have someone who challenges you to improve your parenting?  Get your act together?  Understand and accept your child for who he is?  

For me, Kirk Martin's Celebrate Calm workshops give me that "Annual Parenting Check-Up" that I need.  Kirk visits our area several times a year.  I make sure that I hear him speak at least once, if not twice a year.  

I have found that the three most influential programs and resources in my parenting life (besides my faith and family) have been Kirk Martin with Celebrate Calm, The Five Love Languages, and my MOPS / MOMSnext groups.  

My goal as a mom is to be intentional.  Not just filled with good intentions, but truly intentional about raising children who are loved unconditionally, who are resourceful, and are creative, independent thinkers.   

Recently, I have shared the quote above with several moms.  It's as if I watch a light bulb go off in their heads.  We (moms) did not grow up with constant TV, computers, electronic toys, Facebook, video games, and smart phones.  Our kids are getting used to constant entertainment and are missing out on many valuable life lessons.

I've been reevaluating how my kids spend time doing the following things:  watching TV, playing video games, going outside, making up their own plans, reading books, working together, rushing from place to place, interacting with family members, engaging in activities in our church.  The list goes on; however, being an intentional parent - forces me to focus on how I'm using their time and where I place my priorities.

I do not have the answers, but I have been thinking about this statement a lot.  If knowledge is a commodity, then how can we as moms foster more creative thinkers and encourage problem solving skills in our homes?  I'd love to hear from you!