Have a talk with your child as school resumes
By Dickson Tumuramye
These moments often evoke memories of
our own parents’ words, echoing through time, resonating as clearly today as
they did years ago. Even the wisdom of my late mother, who passed away 19 years
ago, remains vivid and impactful.
I recall the
seemingly mundane, yet profoundly meaningful advice my parents imparted. Their words,
though repetitive and at times seemingly harsh, held profound truths that
shaped our mindset and approach to life. Take, for instance, the stern reminder
about the significance of school fees: “This is the only money I have now, take
it. If you eat it, know you are eating your future.” Such admonitions may have
felt tedious and strict at the moment, but they instilled a deep-seated
understanding of responsibility and foresight.
Indeed,
the cautionary tale of misusing school fees lingered. Serving as a powerful deterrent
against recklessness. It’s remarkable how these parental directives, initially
dismissed as boring or irrelevant, can profoundly influence our decisions and
attitudes, even guiding us through pivotal moments in life.
As we usher
our children back to school, it’s crucial to address common distractions and
pitfalls that can derail their educational journey. Sharing personal stories of
past mistakes can foster connection and understanding. Contrary to the belief
that revealing one’s flaws is detrimental, it actually humanizes us in the eyes
of our children, demonstrating the resilience and growth stern from acknowledging
and rectifying errors.
Embracing vulnerability
and transparency, we can impart valuable lessons learned from our experiences. Whether
recounting a brush with expulsion or grappling with academic setbacks, our stories
serve as potent reminders of the consequences of poor choices. After all, we
overcame our past. As the Bible says “They overcame him by the blood of
the lamb and the word of their testimonies…”
(Revelations 12:11). By sharing our
testimonies, we empower our children to navigate challenges with wisdom and
resilience.
However,
it’s imperative to temper our words with kindness and encouragement. Negative reinforcement
only undermines confidence and self-worth. Instead, we should affirm our
children’s potential and provide unwavering support, acknowledging both their strengths
and weaknesses. There is power in your tongue for it possesses death and
life (Proverbs 18:21). Never despise its strength. It goes like fire which
can set a whole forest ablaze.
Constructive
dialogue, infused with love and understanding, fosters a nurturing environment
conducive to growth. In addition to familial support, encouraging each family
member to offer words of affirmation and encouragement cultivates a robust
support system. These expressions of mutual appreciation and support strengthen
familial bonds and bolster individual resilience.
Before parting
ways, let us not forget the power of prayer. Entrusting our children’s journey to
a higher authority, we invoke divine guidance and protection. Regardless of
faith or belief, a moment of prayer unites us in hope and faith, reinforcing
the bond between parent, child, and the transcendent.
As our
children embark on a new chapter, may they carry with them the lessons of the
past, fortified by love, guidance, and faith, ready to embrace the challenges
and triumphs that lie ahead.
The writer is the Executive
Director of Hope Regeneration Africa, parenting coach, marriage counselor, and
founder of the Men of Purpose Mentorship Program.
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Dickson Tumuramye is also a passionate speaker on:
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