In the previous newsletter, we started the discussion on affirmation. The principle of affirmation is this: Affirmation results from affection, respect, order and merriment. It is the apex of AROMA. We're continuing this discussion today...

In every home, a child will either be affirmed that he does belong or does not belong. Some parents affirm belonging with a negative reinforcement, however. While that may have its place, too much may be misconstrued as unwarranted criticism from parents. There is a place for the "thou shalt nots" in every family, concise and clear, just like the Ten Commandments. But Gail and I found while spirits sagged under the law of the negative, our children flourished under the grace of positive reinforcement. We wrote the "Bill of Rights" for our children. It became a positive reinforcement, our affirmation to them. We have 10 things, today we'll cover the first three...

Every child has a right:

1.) To emotional stability. Every day of childhood should bring fondness, nor fear. Family Times and memories should warm the child's heart, not tighten his stomach. Expressed affection brings an environment of safety and love where emotional health is fostered. The key to this is unconditional love, and nurturing the family fragrance.

2.) To live in an affirming environment. Your child should be surrounded by a world full of possibilities, not a hostile environment. Help by affirming safety. Do your part to promote a safe neighborhood, physically and emotionally, by supporting neighborhood watches. Walk down the sidewalk and meet your neighbors. Building neighborhood relationships helps create an affirming environment, and that will help your home flourish.

3.) To pursue their potential. Kids deserve the right to not be maneuvered or exploited by parents who have an agenda (such as sports or the arts) that is not in the child's best interest. Finding and developing personal interests and talents are the building blocks for a stable life. Every child has natural talents. The only way for parents to know what they are is to give children freedom to explore and be curious. From a variety of talents, certain aptitudes will eventually emerge.

In the next e-newsletter, we'll discuss the other seven points in the "Bill of Rights".

Adapted from Family Fragrance, authored by J. Otis & Gail Ledbetter.  All rights reserved.  HeritageBuilders.com