Chinuch 101

Q: Can you please tell me, in one or two sentences, what you feel is vital for parents to hear today regarding instilling correct values in their children?

A: Here are 4 ingredients for successful parenting.

1. Parents should set an example in speech, davening, learning, driving, emunat chachamim, and every area of life.
2. Do not use technology when children are present. Drop the cell phone at the door and listen to and speak with your children. Do not use a cell phone when you are at the bus stop or pushing a stroller or with a child at the grocery store.
3. Instill hakarat hatov, or gratitude, through thank-you notes, phone calls, and personal visits.
4. Smother them with love and attention and don’t worry about spoiling them. In this very crazy time that we live in, they must know that their family will always be there for them.

Adapted in part from Chinuch With Heart by Rabbi Yaakov Bender (ArtScroll).

By BJL Staff