Listen to their unspoken cues, giving them what they need to thrive emotionally, physically, intellectually, and culturally.
At the same time, be careful to steer them on the right path. Surround them with elders who live rigid, upright, moral lives, that will dote on them as they grow, and encourage them in righteousness.
Do not be afraid to discipline your child. Each person must be taught to control their will and to turn away from their desires.
Take them fun places like the mountains or beach. Camping trips etc.
When they are young, starting preferably in infancy, take them into the toy section of the store. Very softly and cheerily explain that these toys belong to the store, and so we can't play with them. But maybe, just maybe, if we're very careful, we can every now and again come in to look at just one toy.
And so the child will maybe be able to hold the toy, and push the button that makes the toy sing, once or twice.
But most times you go to the store, don't even go into the toy section.
In infancy teach and learn infant sign language. Infants will be able to communicate their needs to you, and it will cut down on crying and tantrums.
Another thing, tantrums. Ignore them. Absolutely ignore them. You will feel like the worst mother or father on earth, but the toddler is learning self control. And they are also learning how far they can push mom and dad before they get what they want.
At most, during a tantrum, crouch down to eye level and encourage them to use their words or sign langauge. If they're still tantrumming, calmly state that we can talk once they've calmed down. Walk away and do your chores, in a place where you can watch and make sure they don't get hurt.
But at the same time, when a child is crying, hold them close, and let them cry into mother or father's arms. Tell them you understand, and that things will get better.
When they do good, praise them. Tell them all the time how wonderful, and bright, and pretty or handsome, clever, they are. And act astounded at how big they're getting. But still let them know it's okay to be a little kid. Not to grow up too fast.
A few others?
Breastfeeding is best. The longer you breastfeed for, the more health benefits to both you and the child.
Cosleeping is okay, and often it's the only way to get a night's sleep. It's also okay to let them cry it out in their crib, going in every now and again to sweetly tell them they are safe and loved.
Let them get dirty every day. Especially in the rain and snow.
Let them help you with all your chores. Up on the counter stirring the cake mix, or down in the garden, with a little trowel, digging in the mud.
A small pet, even a fish, will be the kid's best friend and confidante. Many late night fears have been worked out, while whispered to a dog or hamster.
Let everything you do, including discipline, be done in love, with the care for the child's adult future in your heart.
And you will do anything to protect them. It's a lot of work and stress but it's totally worth it. Because those kids are the stars in your life.
