I received an email this morning from
Pinkie McKay about special gifts that we can give our children (and each other). It touched me deeply, and I wanted to share it with you.
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Self confidence: Help your child understand and accept that nobody can be approved of all the time, and when she encounters disapproval she needn't feel immobilised, that she much trust herself, not the opinions of others. Give this gift with a hug.
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Possibilities: Give children the freedom to be anything they choose, rather than limit them by labels or roles. Teach them by example that a boy or girl can sew or play football, cry or be brave, mow lawns or do dishes. Give this gift with a smile.
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Life without needless fear: Encourage children to become 'doers' by showing them that you will tackle problems and not be a worrier yourself. Give this gift with a laugh.
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The gift of loving: Encourage children to be fully alive in every way. Allow them to have adventures, a chance for laughter, fun, creativity. Give them the supreme gift of being able to find happiness in virtually all circumstances. Give this gift everyday through the year.
Whilst for so many little children Christmas is about gifts, I want to teach Eliza that there is more to it than just a present under a tree.
PS: If you are a parent I highly recommend Pinkie. She is a down to earth person who encourages you to have confidence in yourself and your own parenting ways, rather than following some strict guidelines set out in a book. She has helped me many times and I highly recommend you sign up to her emails.
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