I need practical wisdom for raising 2 baby girls. Any ideas?

Question

I am a new Father thinking 20 years ahead.

How can I psychologically alter my kids thinking toward learning their academic studies as a benefit to become whatever they want to be?
I am open for a variety of ideas because I don't like the concept of pressuring my kids to learn like some parents. In my opinion, that concept does not help at all. It made some kids rebellious and lazy.

Does anyone have a food for thought or experience of what I am talking about?

For example,when my babies become of age, I want to introduce my daughters to individuals that is currently working in the profession of their interest.
This will give them a general idea of what its like and the steps they have to take to get there.

Answer 1

You obviously mean well. The best thing you can do for your kids is talk to them, listen to them, set a good example for them by demonstrating how important learning is to you, take them seriously--be willing to say "I don't know" when you don't know and help them find a good answer, and do not treat rebellion like it is the end of the world.

Never treat your kids as though they are fragile or helpless. Teach them how to deal with every situation. If you are not afraid, they won't be either.

Take them everywhere: plays, museums, factories, parks, lectures, concerts, trains, the hardware store, the thrift store, a military base, to watch the space shuttle launch, to watch the stars, to universities. Do not expect them to be appreciative. You are planting seeds that will take years to grow. Make their world as big as you can. But also make sure that they are planted on solid ground and have lots of good social supports: church, family, friends, community groups. Make as few big changes as possible during their childhood. Love and respect their mother.

Talk to your kids about everything from health insurance to chapped lips, the afterlife, what makes the best roller coaster, what makes batteries work, potatoes grow, how to build the best camp fire, how to build an investment portfolio, and sometimes, nothing at all.

Never raise your voice, but be their rock. Laugh.

Answer 2

Just make education a priority in your house. From babyhood, you can give your children a head start by playing with them and talking to them. I also did sign language with my baby so she could "talk" to me before she could actually speak.

As they get older you can invent teaching games to help the learning process. I started teaching my daughter German when I knew we'd be moving to Germany when she was about 1 year old. Because it was a game, she picked up quite a few words and it was fun for her. But it's important that everything is a game that the child is interested in...don't force it!

When the children get older, you can sit down and let them know why you think education is so important. Encourage them to do well in school, but not to the point that they think your love is dependent on their grades.

What's most important is that your house is a haven for learning. Learning should be fun and interesting and should be started at a very young age.

I think the idea of introducing your kids to professionals in their area of interest is a great idea; they can ask questions and see what the job is really like to help them become more passionate about getting there and doing the job, or maybe seeing that it's not for them. But education should not be seen as a means to an end...meaning it's only to get a good job. Education should be seen as a way to continue to grow personally, to experience life and become a better person.

I hope my ramblings have made some sense!

Answer 3

Putting too much pressure on a young child will devastate them. Not all children are born to be doctor or lawyer and high end achievers. All you can do is hope for the best and take a wait and see approach. You will know after a few very short years what their future potential might be like. Put a realistic education plan in effect and try and guide them in the right direction and support them as much as you can. If you see they lag behind or you feel they could do better with help from a tutor or summer school programs, try that as well. Reward them when they do well but don't punish them for not achieving what YOU think they should be doing! Remember to always be consistent with them as far as being focused in their lives but not to the extent its overwhelming. After-all kids need to have some fun and enjoy their youth as well!

Answer 4

careful that you dont build up a model image of your girls that they then have to squeeze themselves into to get your approval.

I'd say the most important thing is to accept the children as they are be they bright / dumb or academic / practical etc ... If they have good self-esteem, then when there is something they want to do, they will feel entitled to do courses or whatever it requires to get where they want, rather than them feeling victims becuase they didn't do well at school etc.

Answer 5

My advice to you is DON'T think 20 years ahead....enjoy your children!
Let your children learn, explore, grow, make their own choices and mistakes. Be there for them when they need you with love, patience and guidance.
One day they will decide what they want to make of their lives and until that day comes and they ask for your help, that's when you should step in.

Answer 6

Give them to read some positive mind set book. By book they will learn lot and we do nt have to tell or teach any thing. What ever you want to teach him, just give that subject book or casseet.

Answer 7

I think you thinking ahead that far is awesome.I can tell you one thing from the way you sound you are raising them as beautiful creative beings and no matter what they do you will be proud!!!