How to be a Superhero

Children often look up to superheroes, star athletes and other celebrities, placing them on pedestals and trying to emulate their behavior. Yet, did you know that parents have just as much (and even more) influence over their child's thinking and behavior as these "stars"? It's true! Your child is always watching and learning from you. Knowledge is power, so Kay Barlow, MEBA's Community and Parent Education Director and resident superhero, offers some tips on how you can take charge and be your child's best superhero!

• Approach the day with humor and a smile.
• Remember the most important thing you can spend on your child is time, not money.
• Listen with love.
• Never promise what you cannot deliver.
• Be the person you want your child to be.
• Admit your mistakes and explain to your child that everyone makes mistakes.  The important thing is how you handle your mistakes and how you learn from them.
• Be free with hugs for every child or any age.
• Discipline with firmness and with gentleness. 
• See parenthood as an opportunity.
• Say "I love you" each day and "I like you" at least that often.

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