As a parent, I tend to adopt a laid-back approach. We may not have a strict routine for baths, and I don’t quiz my kids on their spelling. Our bedtime is more of a guideline than a rule. We steer clear of extra tutoring or private sessions for academic or athletic achievement. If I were to choose an animal to symbolize my parenting style, it would be a sloth rather than a tiger.
That said, there are a few essentials I insist on for my children. Kindness ranks high on that list. I expect them to put forth their best effort and see things through. They must wear clean underwear and remember to push in their chairs after meals. And yes, I insist they take Spanish classes and piano lessons.
When I mention that I’m making my kids engage in these activities, it might conjure images of a pushy mom striving for perfection. However, I’m quite the opposite. I’m a regular mom with a normal family, raising typical kids. My parenting philosophy can be summed up as “good enough.”
Why Piano and Spanish?
So, why the insistence on piano and Spanish, especially when my kids show little interest in them? The answer is simple: I want them to develop an appreciation for music and foreign languages, irrespective of their proficiency.
As parents, we often require our children to do things they’d rather avoid. We make them brush their teeth (at least sometimes), visit the dentist, and study for tests. We even encourage them to attend religious education classes. We don’t expect them to become dental experts or spelling champions; instead, we know these activities contribute to a well-rounded, healthy, and educated life. In the same vein, I believe music and foreign languages are just as vital as mastering math or science.
I’m not concerned about whether my kids excel at the piano or become fluent in Spanish. What truly matters to me is conveying the significance of music and cultural awareness as fundamental aspects of a well-rounded life. By engaging with music and language, my children learn that these subjects hold value.
Adapting to Their Interests
As they grow and their interests shift, my husband and I will likely adapt how we emphasize the importance of music and language. It’s possible that we’ll eventually need to step back from traditional lessons to nurture their love for these subjects in a different way. But for now, while they’re still young, music lessons and language classes remain non-negotiable.
It’s not just about them becoming accomplished musicians or fluent speakers; it’s about instilling the understanding that both music and languages are essential. Whether they master “Chopsticks” or explore different instruments, I care that they venture outside their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. Similarly, their Spanish skills don’t have to be perfect; what matters is that they gain a broader appreciation of the world, celebrate its diversity, and cultivate cultural awareness.
So while I might occasionally let them skip brushing their teeth, they absolutely will be practicing piano and speaking Spanish!
Conclusion
As a parent, I want to ensure my children are well-rounded individuals. For more insights on parenting, you can check out this guide about privacy policies at this link. If you’re interested in fertility tips, this site has some valuable information. Additionally, if you’re curious about the chances of success with insemination, WebMD is an excellent resource to explore.
In summary, while I’m not a strict parent, I firmly believe in the importance of instilling values like cultural awareness and musical appreciation in my children.