Parenting Tips from Experts

Jordan and I have been trying to read up on some parenting material as our social worker suggested in this time of waiting. We recently signed up for a Baby Care class at our local hospital. Most of the knowledge we already have about parenting comes from our experiences with our own families. I decided to compile a list of a few things I've learned through the years...

When potty training boys, teach them to pee outside on a bug, then skillfully paint one on the bottom of their training toilet. Mom

If your child(or maybe your niece) calls someone fat in the grocery store…drive that basket like you’re Dale Earnhardt, and get the heck out of there! Cousin Niecie

When your spouse leaves you at home by yourself with the kids…call for reinforcement from your siblings. Brother Richie

Plan lots of “scrapbooking” retreats so that you can get away with your girl friends for a weekend. Sister-in-law Jennifer

Sometimes kids really do make you nervous. It’s OK to tell them that over and over again, and hope they will just sit still. Aunt Beth

Game shows, old sitcoms, and soap operas are good babysitting tools. They will keep a child occupied for hours. Aunt Polly

Give your kids money for Christmas, and they are guaranteed to visit you on holidays. Grandmother Wines

Homemade chicken and dumplings are like Ritalin to a crazed child. Mamaw Taylor

Kids can grow up to appreciate the music you make them listen to. Even when it’s Willie Nelson. Uncle Harvey

If your son wants to be Jean Autrey, go with it. Buy him the boots, hat, and guitar. If he wants to be a girl like his big sister, keep markers out of reach…he will use them for “make up”. Sister-in-law Anna

It’s OK to let your kids get candy cigarettes and root beer at the convenience store. This lets them live out their adult fantasy so they won’t have to buy the real stuff later. Dad

Live close enough to your parents so you don’t have to pay for a babysitter or dinner. Brother David

To save money so you can afford to take all your kids and nieces and nephews to the movies, pack your purse full of sandwiches and bottled drinks. Aunt Ruthie

Embrace the name kids give you, even if it’s a little embarrassing and people who don’t know you might raise an eyebrow. Aunt Magdalene, aka “Aunt Ding-a-Ling”

Zest soap is nasty and most effective when disciplining a smart mouthed child. Mom

A handkerchief has MANY uses. Just remember what you used it for last. Dad

Take lots of pictures so you won’t ever forget. Aunt Vivian


I'd love to hear more from my family...I know everybody has a few!