Simple Principles to Raise a Successful Child

"Parenting doesn't come with an instruction manual." I'd like to quote the author of this statement but I can't remember where I read it from. And I have to agree. There's just no flowchart....

But then, I found this book of Alex A. Lluch...

I bought it from Jarir Bookstore about two months ago. At first I was skeptical in buying the book but the summary at the back cover convinced me. 

I have just finished reading it and I'm giving it an A+! I'm highly recommending it especially for those parents who are not fond of reading. This reference book does not have many texts to read. It's straightforward and it goes with principles - numbered and bolded - which makes it easy to go back to from time to time.

It tackles a lot of areas in parenting e.g. communication, discipline, motivation, spirituality, and etc. I enjoyed it a lot and took me awhile to finish it because I had to keep reading again and pondering on our parenting style. 

Here are some of my favorites among the 200 Simple Principles...

#3 Play with and tickle your children often.
#8 Learn the power of hugs. Hug your children frequently.
#14 Teach your children the meaning of the word "nonnegotiable."
#21 When you have to say "no," but can't come up with a good reason, simply say, "I cannot let you do that because I love you."
#26 Whenever there is a conflict between you and your children, ask them what they would do if they were the parent.
#51 Concentrate on the positive.
#56 When you are angry, stop to think about what you're going to say before you say it.
#60 Remember, children do not develop positive or negative behaviors unless we reinforce one or the other.
#77 Teach your children the benefits of exercise.
#108 Encourage reading.
#118 Teach children the value of money, saving and investing.
#152 Give your children purpose in life and they will flourish beyond your expectations.
#161 Teach your children that faith is crucial in dealing with life's challenges.
#164 Teach your children that the glass is half full, not half empty.
#174 Don't give the message to your children that rules are made to be kept by children but broken by parents.
#191 You only get one chance at parenting a child. Give it your best shot!

Parenting doesn't come with an instruction manual. I can't say this book supersedes that statement. I'm not a perfect parent either. But this is just SAR 19. I hope you, guys, could grab a copy. SAR 19 is nothing compared to what you could save... Who knows, someone may be missing a lot... 

So, grab one... READ and LIVE IT...

Who Moved My Cheese?

Out of despair, I bought this book last week. Though I have read it once, I promised myself to get a copy if chance permits. Good thing, it was on the rack. An office colleague actually lent me the book and at that time, I was hesitant to read it. I was going through a major life transformation back then and I thought I couldn’t have the luxury of reading. But the book has 95 pages only, so I gave in.

And again, it was worth it! The few minutes I consumed were literally and absolutely refreshing. The story about the mice and the little people is so life-like that anyone can get a feel for. Reading the story again and again most importantly when you’re going through something can uplift your spirit.

Among the writings on the wall mentioned in the book, these two are what I like most:

• Things change and they are never the same again.
• If you do not change, you can become extinct!

It is a must read! Even children would learn from Sniff, Scurry, Hem and Haw. I would really say grab one, read, keep, read, keep and read again. Change is constant so we may need something that constantly reminds us to move with the cheese!