ADVICE FOR NEW MOTHERS
Having survived mothering young children twice myself, I offer this unsolicited advice:
Put God first.
Be teachable. Everyone has an opinion about how to raise your child. Most likely, their intentions are worthy, but worthy or not, they might have an idea that bears listening to. Take no opinions offered as critcism.
Don't be overprotective. Trust God's power to protect. This means let people hold and care for your baby. Babies need to know they are safe in other places besides your arms.
Spoil your child by being lavish with your time, not by giving things. No child needs a house full of toys or a closet full of clothes. Nor will your child learn to appreciate gifts if they get them too often.
Teach thankfulness. God expects this. Your own attitude of gratitude should be an example. Avoid complaining at all costs.
Routine is your friend, but occasional flexibility keeps life interesting. Make the household routine fit the needs of all members of the family, instead of only the children.
As a mother, your first priority is your husband, not your children. They come next. If you cultivate a close relationship with your husband, he is more likely to still be with you after the children leave the nest. Modeling a loving husband/wife relationship is one of the best gifts parents can give their children.
Use TV in very small well-supervised doses. Make it a springboard for discussion. Never use it to entertain the children while you do something else.
Enjoy every minute. Live in the moment. They will be gone before you know it.
Pray unceasingly.
Put God first.
Be teachable. Everyone has an opinion about how to raise your child. Most likely, their intentions are worthy, but worthy or not, they might have an idea that bears listening to. Take no opinions offered as critcism.
Don't be overprotective. Trust God's power to protect. This means let people hold and care for your baby. Babies need to know they are safe in other places besides your arms.
Spoil your child by being lavish with your time, not by giving things. No child needs a house full of toys or a closet full of clothes. Nor will your child learn to appreciate gifts if they get them too often.
Teach thankfulness. God expects this. Your own attitude of gratitude should be an example. Avoid complaining at all costs.
Routine is your friend, but occasional flexibility keeps life interesting. Make the household routine fit the needs of all members of the family, instead of only the children.
As a mother, your first priority is your husband, not your children. They come next. If you cultivate a close relationship with your husband, he is more likely to still be with you after the children leave the nest. Modeling a loving husband/wife relationship is one of the best gifts parents can give their children.
Use TV in very small well-supervised doses. Make it a springboard for discussion. Never use it to entertain the children while you do something else.
Enjoy every minute. Live in the moment. They will be gone before you know it.
Pray unceasingly.



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