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Exercising Values

Happy, Healthy, Kind, & Considerate Kids

Memorable Moments Are Teachable MomentsValues

family family life holidays parenting values

He had to have been tired as he pulled into the drive way but there I was waiting.  I was about eight years old at the time and I'd have a softball or a football in my hand. As soon as his foot hit the pavement and the car door closed behind him I tossed him the ball. As far as I could ever tell, he enjoyed these brief moments before dinner as much as I did.

How about you? Can you recall the times your parents tossed a ball or played a game with you? If so, then you may begin to realize the power of using brief moments of playful activity to introduce important concepts you want your child to remember. Take a memorable moment and make it a teachable moment.

I know it's Mother's Day but I'm thinking about fathers at the moment having just watched I Am Sam with two of my daughters. I can't think of any movie more likely to make me cry. It provokes a lot of thought about what it really takes to be a good parent. Love covers a multitude os sins. Children who are rock solid about their parent's love for them will be charitable about much of the rest. Children who doubt they have their parent's love may spend the rest of their life trying to fill that hole.

I want to honor my mother's memory today and to wish any mother reading this the best of holidays today. God set the solidarity in families. Family life is a haven from many outside pressures.  I hope you can take a break today and enjoy the ones you call family. I hope you can recall a memory of your mom or dad that makes you smile. Happy Mother's Day.

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About the Author

Pamela Davenport

MSW, CPT, PES, CES, FNS, YES, SFS ACE

For decades I have helped countless parents and their children overcome significant obstacles. My unique accomplishments in the fields of child development, health, and fitness have given me an unparalleled perspective and expertise that I would love to share with you.

  • Award-Winning Author and Parenting Coach
  • Mother of six and grandmother of five
  • Studied Juvenile Justice at Stanford University
  • Master’s degree in Social Work
  • Experienced family counselor
  • Support group leader for struggling parents
  • Taught health at the university level
  • Program manager for the personal training programs at two colleges
  • Personal Trainer helping people lose 5lb-100lb+
  • Two-time Ironman Triathlete and competing member of team USA
  •  UMB Lifetime Sportswoman Award 2017