Is it possible to have quality children?

Children are a gift from God. However, it takes certain qualities in both parents to bring up that child to acquire all the necessary values it needs to weather the storms of life.

What does a child need to weather the storms of life then?

There is no clear-cut list in this process, however I can share my professional experience in this field with you and you can also explore books from famous psychologists as well.

Spend time to know your child through the following ways.

Active listening and switch off mobile phones making sure your child is your number one priority.

Engaging with them through conversation.
Watching TV programmes together and gives room for them to ask questions.

Answer all questions truthfully.

Do try and read books with your children instead of busy engaging the extended family issues most of the time.

Engaging with the child and ask their opinion on issues to gain the respect for yourself and your child.

Spend your time going to parks and talk about nature, films etc. followed by discussions.

Do not disadvantage your child; go on holidays with the family or even day trips to the countryside.

Explore the country in which you live and don't just focus on work and sending money home to relations.

Allow children to explore certain duties from an early age. For example in the way of cooking, gardening, housework and encourage them to do so rather than rewarding them with money; this is dangerous and children tend to bully their parents after a while as they expect the money each time.

Encourage your children to be part of the community they live in for example encouraging them to join local clubs like scouts, girl guide, tennis clubs etc.

Encourage your children to bring their friend's home so that you can see the sort of friends they have and advise accordingly.

Never leave your children at home alone, rushing off to parties and attending funeral services.
Instead go with them most of the times to get them interested in our customs and traditions.

Encourage your children through life's transitional periods and integrate them into the Ghanaian culture.
Let them see things you will hide from them for example visiting family members in remote villages in Ghana and encourage them to link up with schools through voluntary inputs in the education even if it is a day experience.

Parents need to expose children to all sorts of life challenges which are not life threatening. Children love challenges.

Be there for the children in difficult times and happier times. School reports can be good or bad however as a parent one is only there to comfort and encourage our children to aim high without posing any treats.

Children need much love and the security of parents being there for them.

Do not let your child fall a victim to domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect and emotional abuse.

Let's help our children to reach their full potential in life instead of being a hindrance to them.

Makes a difference in the life of your child whether adopted or not.

Don't let an intruder (a secret girl friend or mistress) destroy your marriage and family life.

Be smart and ward off any one who dares. Be a winner not a loser.

Invest your time in your children and not unnecessary extended family disputes.

Nothing can replace the love a parent has of its children.

Hope this helps. Stay focused with your chosen partner and family.

Lets treasure family values and the rewards they bring to any home.

Let's think of the long-term benefits.

You don't need lots of money to have quality children but principles in your life.

Children are a labour of love, a duty assigned to every parent .