Friday, August 17, 2018

8-17-2018

Mary’s Minute
“The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.”
                                                                      ~ Denis Waitley

As humans we are social creatures, naturally dependent on one another.  Our notions of independence are called into question at this time of year when many parents send their children off to college.  Independence is an interesting topic, whether we are talking about our own children, children in our classrooms, or within our own relationships. 

As parents we strive to give our children a strong foundation so that they can become independent adults.  As teachers we work to create students who can think for themselves and tackle new learning tasks on their own.  Psychology tells us that the healthiest relationships exist when individuals balance independence with their dependence on one another. 

Being dependent on others by providing healthy support is human nature.  We are social beings, who need each other.  Like all things, there needs to be a balance. 

As we send our children off to college, we may struggle with where that healthy balance lies.  Helicopter parenting goes too far one way, yet we also know that our children always need our unconditional love.  The same is true for the children in our care. 

                                                           Have a great week!

                                                                       Mary

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