We can help start our children’s day (and ours) right with a few simple 'check-ups'. First, how are you feeling?

EMOTIONS - they change, in some of us, they change OFTEN!  So who is handling what?  Are our emotions handling US or are we handling them?  We know what the answer should be but before the day starts, take a moment to see what the answer IS.

Do our emotions effect our children? YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT! Take some time to do an ‘Emotional Check-up’ first thing each morning!

Focus on the POSITIVES (not the dirty dishes or gum wrappers they left on the couch.) Those little socks were worn by your child's little feet yesterday - even if they ARE in the middle of the den!  It's an honor to pick them up - or to train them to pick them up when they come to the den.  Also - we HAVE CHILDREN! Many households want what we HAVE. And we have them for such a limited time…so it is important to closely look at how WE (mother/educator) start our numbered and limited days left with these diamonds in the rough!

Also, it helps to Focus on our Heavenly Father - the One who was self-sacrificing enough to be ‘fleshed-out’ and die for us, HIS CHILDREN! This puts our parenthood into a great perspective! We should show the Grace of God to our children, and show them how to show it to others by our own actions.

Take a deep breath - a new month is about to start, and a new season - and just relax and enJOY your children. Especially enjoy those teenagers, their time at home is seriously limited!

Blessings to your Family,
Donna L. Miller

Donna L. Miller is a homeschooling mother of two (2) homeschool graduates and one remaining highschooler. A former preschool teacher, School Age Camp and Family Program Director with YMCAs, and current business owner, Donna’s vision is to encourage other homeschooling families. She owns and maintains the popular site for homeschool encouragement and resources: Homeschool Heart