Recently we launched the ebook 60 Homeschooling Tips From 60 Years which Donna Reish, of Character Ink, co-authored with me. We both have been homeschooling for 30 years, and wrote this book hoping to encourage homeschooling parents by sharing our top tips from our many years of experience. (learning by our mistakes!)
Today I thought I would like to share one tip from the book, that I feel is very applicable to ALL parents in today’s society, whether you homeschool or not!
BE FULLY PRESENT!
“It is so easy to fall into the trap of being home with your kids physically, but being elsewhere mentally! The technology of today has made this a much more common problem in our homes and families.
When we started homeschooling our kids 30 years ago, I didn’t own a computer or a cell phone. Looking back now, I can see that was a huge blessing, and made a big difference in how I raised and taught the kids. I wasn’t being pulled away throughout the day by the internet, Facebook, texts, etc. Because of that, I spent many hours on Bible memory with the kids, character training, chore training, and academics. Not having the distractions that are so common today with technology, I was able to fully focus on those things God had showed us were important.
I’m not saying technology in the home is wrong. However, it has the potential to take over if we don’t have a plan, and self-discipline.
We only have our kids for an average of 18 years, and we need to make the most of that time by being fully present. They need out time, our attention, and our love. This is one of the BEST ways to win and keep your kids hearts – being there for them.
Each day we have opportunities to have an impact on our families. But that requires a decision to take advantage of those opportunities and spend our time on things that really matter. It is easy to fritter away an entire day without doing anything of lasting importance. Determine to focus your energy and attention on what is eternal!”
