Green Child Magazine Fall 2012 | Page 9

World Changer raising a RAISING A WORLD CHANGER IS NO EASY TASK As you guide your child with strong, healthy values, keep in mind that being an intentional parent produces a great outcome. Have you heard of the principle of planting and harvesting? Seeds in a garden will only grow into a plentiful harvest if you water, care for and protect them. The same principles apply to raising kids. What you put into raising, imparting and guiding your child in the present, will harvest a strong, forward-thinking world changer later. Apply these five keys to your child’s world… and watch her grow. 1. STUDY YOUR CHILD As the parent of a world-changer child, you must start with a vision. What are your child’s natural gifts? What are their interests? by Christy Little Jones, M.S. Sit down with each child in your household and ask them what they believe their gifts are. Find out how they want to use them to bring change into the world? 2. HAVE A STRATEGIC PLAN Now that you have identified a few of your child’s gifts, talents and interests, put those gifts into practice. Set goals and a purpose with a desired outcome to keep the family on track. If your son loves animals, think of ways this passion can make a difference. Depending on the age of your child, volunteer at an animal shelter or dog-sit for a friend. If reading is your child’s interest, bring her to read to seniors at a retirement community. It’s a great way to serve happiness and impact someone’s life for the better. 3. BE CONSISTENT Consistency requires commitment and discipline. Consistency is the glue that holds your child’s strategic plan together. 9