First-Time Mom: A friend's recommendation

This book was a present from a friend who'd found it invaluable when she was a first-time mom. As you can probably guess the book is written by an American, but as children are the same the world over this really wasn't a problem! (My friend is actually South African!)

The book goes from birth to toddlers and on to starting school, and is jam-packed with tips and hints and guidance based on experience. It is definitely a book which I will be re-reading as Zoë Grace grows up.

I want to share with you today 'A Child's Ten Commandments to Parents' as it really spoke to me. (I am planning on printing these out nicely and putting them up in Zoë Grace's room.)

'A Child's Ten Commandments to Parents'

1. My hands are small; please don't expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture, or throw a ball. My legs are short; please slow down so I can keep up with you.
2. My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; please let me explore safely; don't restrict me unnecessarily.
3. Housework will always be there. I am only little for such a short time - please take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.
4. My feelings are tender; please be sensitive to my needs; don't nag me all day long. (You wouldn't want to be nagged for you inquisitiveness.) Treat me as you would like to be treated.
5. I am a special gift from God; please treasure me as God intended you to do, holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by, and disciplining me in a loving manner.
6. I need your encouragement, but not your praise, to grow. Please go easy on the criticism; remember, you can criticize the things I do without criticizing me.
7. Please give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to fail, so I can learn from my mistakes.
8. Please don't do things over for me. Somehow that makes me feel that my efforts don't quite measure up to your expectations. I know it's hard, but please don't compare me with my brother or sister.
9. Please don't be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacations from parents, just as parents need vacations from kids. Besides, it's a great way to show us kids that your marriage is special.
10. Please take me to Sunday school and church regularly, setting a good example for me to follow. I enjoy learning more about God.