Is It More Difficult Raising a Child In the 21st Century?

I wrote yesterday about bullying and how it is dangerous for everything to be viewed as such.  It led one reader to email me and ask me how will I raise my children once Evelina and I start a family.  This question intrigued me so I thought I’d drop a few letters together and formulate my thoughts.  Here goes…

The types of things we have discussed that we would like to be a part of our parentology will be (in no particular order):

1. Understand that your parents love you no matter what, but sometimes we must discipline you.  It’s for your own good.
2. Not all people are bad, bud not all people are good so don’t ride with strangers.
3. When you grow up you’ll realize the world is ruled by “nerds” so don’t be afraid to show your intelligence.
4. Befriend the kids that others make fun of and love the kid who teases; he or she is hurting inside badly.
5. Don’t rely solely on technology; look up occasionally!
6. Always do what you say you will do; your word will be incredibly important when you are an adult.
7. In all things show character; people will respect you for doing so.
8. Don’t talk about people behind their backs; mind your own business.
9. Keep your checkbook balanced.
10. If you can’t afford it, then you can’t afford it; do not accumulate credit card debt.
11. Things will always be things, but life is all about experience and memories; invest your energy into making memories.
12. Lie in the grass and stare at the clouds once in a while.
13. Forgive your parents, we’re not perfect and will make mistakes.
14. You have incredible value so expect others to treat you as such.
15. Volunteer your time to helping others.
16. Be a good friend.
17. Do not be afraid to dream big dreams.  The great innovators didn’t become great by thinking “normal”.
18. Not everyone is meant for college so if your life course is a skilled trade then be the best skilled tradesman/woman you can be.
19. Always know that no matter how old you get, you’ll always be our little boy/girl.
20. Always know  that your mother and father love you.

Obviously I have left a lot off of this list, but I have to end it somewhere.  Evelina and I are putting together some of the values that we agree we want to instill in our kids.  I’m not sure how many people have this conversation, but I think it is critical versus winging it.  Of course, there is no definitive guide, but I believe couples need to talk about and have a common belief system; especially when it comes to disciplining children.

We have had this conversation about every aspect of our life thus far and it has not failed us so we are continuing the practice.

What would you add to my list?

Danny