About Us | Our Programs | Events | For Parents | For Providers | How to Help | Donate | Give Us Feedback 

Parent Info


Introduction

10 Tips for Parents

Child Development

Preschooler Activities

Reading & Writing

Self-Control

Choosing a Provider

Ask the Experts

Local Resources

Parent's Links

 

 
 

For Parents

"Parents and families are the first and most important teachers. If families teach a love of learning, it can make all the difference in the world to our children."

-Richard W. Riley U.S. Secretary of Education (1993-2001) .

Baby’s Bill of Rights
Author: Unknown

Talk to me:
Sing, hum, babble, or even read the funnies to me! I don’t know exactly what you’re saying, but I need to hear you. And I do know what you mean, even if I may not know the words. Like your voice says “I love you.” Or when you yell, I hear “you’re a pest!” Unless you communicate with me, how can I learn? I learn from you.

Hold me:
Everything is so big and new to me. I don’t understand where I am. Or who I am. And I get scared. But when you hold me, I feel better. Your warmth warms me. Your breath and heartbeat make me feel I belong. Belong here, with you.

Answer my cry:
I don’t cry to get you upset. Or to get you mad. I cry because I can’t tell you how I feel any other way. Maybe I’m cold…or wet…or hungry…or scared and lonely. Answer my cries. You’ll soon know what each one means. You won’t spoil me. You’ll help me be a better baby, And it will make you happier, too.

Love me:
Like me. Love me just as I am. Don’t expect me to do what I can’t do. Like being toilet trained. My muscles aren’t ready yet. I know I’m messy. But I’m growing. Overlook my baby weaknesses. You’re the most important person in my world. I can’t make it without you. So get to know me. Have fun with me. And love me…just as I am.

 

Children Learn What They Live
Author: Unknown

If a child lives with criticism,
she learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility,
he learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule,
she learns to be shy.

If a child lives with shame,
he learns to be guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance,
she learns to be patient.

If a child lives with encouragement,
he learns confidence.

If a child lives with praise,
she learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with fairness,
he learns justice.

If a child lives with security,
she learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval,
he learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,
they learn to find love in the world.

 
Copyright © 2002-2006 United Way of Central Virginia. All rights reserved.