If you have checked out the parenting section of a bookstore lately, you’ve probably noticed hundreds of authors who want to tell you how to raise your children. Have you ever wondered if they really know more than you do?As a psychologist, I believe parents can learn from the specialists.
But there is one thing a book will never provide, and that is one-on-one support from mums and dads who are going through the same thing.
Our grandparents took it for granted that friends and family would always be there to help. But things have changed since then. These days, the best piece of advice I can give a new parent is: “Yes, read those books, but don’t stop there. Contact your local support group, hospital or family service centre and ask about parenting support groups.”
You might find the encouragement and information our forefathers derived from large and loving families. Beyond that, I recommend that you go with your own instincts. You know more than you might think you do about the needs of your own children.
From TODAY, Voices - Thursday, 08-July-2010
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