Parenting

 The role of parents can not be over estimated.  As the educators and important others that children live with and base their behaviour on, the influence of parents on the character development of children is enormous.  The capabilities and habits that we learn in childhood become part of our daily actions for a lifetime.  Capabilities are the patterns of thought and action that bring about individual and social transformation.  We must search out the spiritual qualities within each child and help them to reach their full potential.

 The first four years of life are critical in this process and Sharing Circles was initiated to contribute in some small way to the process of spiritual development of children.  To help them know and learn the fundamental virtues that will be built upon throughout their school years and beyond.

 The challenge for parents in the chaotic world that we currently live in is to find ways to offer spiritual guidance and nourishment to their children, to assist them to develop their capabilities early.

 Some interesting resources to support parents include:

• The Virtues Project Inc.  http://www.virtuesproject.com
• Nurture Magazine  - An Educational Journal produced by the National Baha’i Education Committee for Children – email ~ education@bnc.bahai.org.au
• Values Parenting  http://www.valuesparenting.com/