"If each and every one of us who are parents will reflect upon the responsibilities devolving upon us, we shall come to the conclusion that we should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do. We should set them an example that we wish them to imitate."
--Brigham Young (Journal of Discourses, 14:192.)
This is so true, in every aspect of teaching our children. I learned this firsthand this week.
I started teaching my 5-year-old the piano about a month ago. She was really excited for a few days. Then, nothing! I was bewildered at the sudden lack of interest. I didn't know what to do. I knew I shouldn't push her to practice, because that'll ruin everything.
Then, about a week ago, I was going through some of my personal goals, and I realized that I hadn't practiced the piano for probably weeks! So I sat down and played for a while. I just went through some music I've had for a long time - nothing major.
Not an hour later, my daughter said, "Mom, I'm going to practice the piano." And sat down and practiced from her lesson book! Not even an hour later!! It was definitely an eye-opening experience about teaching by example! It taught me that teaching by example doesn't just mean not doing certain things, it also means doing certain things! If I want something for my kids, I have to show them the way, not just tell them about it.
--Brigham Young (Journal of Discourses, 14:192.)
This is so true, in every aspect of teaching our children. I learned this firsthand this week.
I started teaching my 5-year-old the piano about a month ago. She was really excited for a few days. Then, nothing! I was bewildered at the sudden lack of interest. I didn't know what to do. I knew I shouldn't push her to practice, because that'll ruin everything.
Then, about a week ago, I was going through some of my personal goals, and I realized that I hadn't practiced the piano for probably weeks! So I sat down and played for a while. I just went through some music I've had for a long time - nothing major.
Not an hour later, my daughter said, "Mom, I'm going to practice the piano." And sat down and practiced from her lesson book! Not even an hour later!! It was definitely an eye-opening experience about teaching by example! It taught me that teaching by example doesn't just mean not doing certain things, it also means doing certain things! If I want something for my kids, I have to show them the way, not just tell them about it.
1 comment:
It is so true! As soon as I sit down to play, my kids come over and want to play too. Teach by example, that's the best way! And yes, I am back now. I have been really busy lately, thanks for the concern. Hope all is well!
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