Refl ect:
26 Part 1 Decisions About Parenting
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Parenting offers the reward of constant
adventure. Every stage of development
brings new experiences for parents and
child. Parents learn how to make an
infant smile and how to help a baby build
a tower of blocks. They learn to answer
questions, such as “Where do stars go
during the day?” Later, parents may learn
to coach a Little League team or referee a
soccer game.
It is impossible to describe all the rewards
of parenting. They differ from day to day and
from child to child, 1-12. Many people feel the
special love their children have for them is
the best reward of all.
At some time in life, many people choose
to become parents and accept all of the
responsibilities and rewards the job involves.
Of those who remain childless, many are
involved in parenting tasks with the children
of other family members or friends.
As you study parenting, think about
your parents and other parents you’ve
observed. Also consider your own ideas
about parenting. Compare these views with
what you know about responsible parenting.
Consider the challenges and the rewards of a
parenting career.
1-12 The rewards of parenthood are many and
differ day to day.
Summing It Up
•
The terms parent, parenting, and parenthood
have interrelated meanings in regard to
the care and support of children.
•
Parenting can be compared to a career
because both require commitment, involve
responsibilities, present challenges, and
offer rewards.
•
Nurturance, dedication, and flexibility
are three important personal qualities of
parents.
•
Parenting is complex. Knowledge, training,
and experience are needed, but rarely
happen before a couple’s first child is born.
•
Myths about parenthood should be
recognized for what they are—half-true or
untrue stories or notions used to explain
certain traditions, practices, or beliefs.
•
People should understand the
responsibilities and rewards of parenting
before they become parents. Parenting
responsibilities include wanting and
being ready for children, fulfilling legal
responsibilities and rights, meeting
children’s needs, and maintaining their
health.
•
Children have physical, intellectual,
emotional, social, and moral needs that
parents must meet.
•
The rewards of parenthood far outweigh
the challenges for most people.