3 Hugs A Day Keeps The Doctor Away

Many people criticise the way I am raising my son, yet then tell me how happy and healthy he always is. It seems that they fail to make the connection that perhaps it is because of how I raise my son that he is so happy and healthy. The reasons that my parenting skills are criticised are for a variety of reasons. I am still breastfeeding my son (he is 1 1/2 years old), and plan to continue breastfeeding him until he decides it is time to stop. La Leche League International has great information on every aspect of breastfeeding, and talks about gentle ways to parent.

I believe that breastfeeding is very important and so have dedicated a full page to it at "Breastfeeding: It Does A Baby Good" .

Another reason why I am seen as such a radical mother is because my son sleeps in my bed with me. How can this be so unnatural if it has been going on for so long, and has only stopped in the last century in only a few countries? It actually reduces the chance of your child dying from SIDS if he or she sleeps beside you.

I also make sure that my son knows that he is loved by always giving plenty of hugs, kisses, and words of encouragement. A wonderful site that reflects these thoughts is The Natural Child Project. This is a must for all parents who believe that children should be treated with as much kindness and gentleness as is possible.

How long does it take to stop what you are doing and hug your child, tell them that you love them, or just really listen to them? It doesn't take nearly as long as many people believe. A child who is always cranky and fussy is often one who feels unloved. Some children need to be told that they are loved more than others, and need a bit more of your undivided attention. But isn't it worth it for their happiness? They do not need the newest toys or the latest fashions as much as they need to know that you are there for them, and love them with all your heart. Your love is unconditional: let them know this. Make one night family night. It might only be an hour of family time, but just make sure that there is time to let everyone know how important they are, and that family matters.

Always remember: what a child has done may be bad, but the child is not bad. Listen to the difference between these two statements: "You are very bad!" compared to "What you have done is a very bad thing!" There is a world of difference between those two statements. Accidents happen, mistakes are made. These things can be forgotten, but a child's sense of worth can be easily crushed.

To my home page or to my vegan page.