The Parenting Initiative

Statement of Philosophy

Parenting is one of the most awesome responsibilities on the planet. Effective parenting requires love demonstrated through dedication, commitment, and sacrifice. Each child is born with a purpose and certain innate qualities. The goal of parenting is to guide children so that they learn to develop their strengths and make intelligent choices in their lives, choices which lead them toward a life of meaning and purpose and an outflowing concern for family, community, and humanity as a whole. Intelligent choices are based on the values instilled in children from an early age.

Parents have a right and an obligation to determine the values by which their families live. Family values determine individual behavioral expectations both inside and outside the home. Parents impart values to their children; some of these may be positive and others not. In both ways, parents serve as the example. When values are clear, parenting decisions become easier and simpler.

Positive behavior is reinforced by the consistent application of structure and discipline. Structure is created based on values and behavioral expectations that the parents choose. Externally applied discipline, supporting the child’s adherence to the family structure and expected behavior, ultimately leads to self-control, self-discipline, and character--foundations of a successful life. This discipline flows from a bond of love of and interest in the child. Discipline is supported by the application of appropriate consequences for behavior that is not in line with the values chosen and lived by the parents. Appropriate consequences are not seen as “punishment,” but rather as a tool to guide the child toward responsible behavior. When children experience the consequences of their behavior, they learn that certain behaviors produce certain results. Thus, they learn to become responsible for the choices they make.

Structure and discipline allow children to know what is expected of them in terms of attitude and behavior, and what to expect when their behaviors and attitudes are not appropriate. When limits are set, children have the freedom to choose within that framework, which creates a sense of security and an environment in which creativity flourishes.

By exemplifying and teaching these values to their children, parents will successfully raise children who will exhibit as adults those qualities of character that significantly improve their chances of being successful and living lives full of meaning and value.

Values that support such parenting include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Service to family and the greater community
• Sharing—both things and responsibilities
• Respect for people and things
• Cooperation
• Maintaining a positive attitude toward family, work, and life in general—all the time
• Honesty
• Hard work
• Self-control
• Self-discipline
• Openness to self improvement
• Embracing life’s challenges and difficulties as opportunities for learning and growth
• Responsibility

The Parenting Initiative supports parents in these efforts.

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