A New Kid, Day 4

For Thursday (Saturday), Leman's asks parents to consider how they can show their child unconditional acceptance and how parents can emphasize belonging in the family.
---I have to say that in this area, I don't think I am in need of much improvement. I know that sounds a bit conceited, but I do think it's true. Leman says that kids need to feel like they belong as part of the family and suggests that parents can instill this sense of belonging by listening to their kids opinions and by giving the some input in decision-making. I do these things already and then some. My girls are kids of divorce and, as such, have gone through a lot of changes in their short little lives. Further, they now have a new stepdad, and, thus, we have become a new family. Because of this fact, I am always aware of their need to belong and to feel accepted. I know that they need to feel like they belong in this new family, and, further, I have tried to make them feel like that have had an important part in creating it. We have family game nights, movie nights, and outings, and the girls are able to make some decisions in respect to what we play on family games nights or what movie we watch, or, even how we spend our Saturday together.

Lehman asks parents, "In what ways can you spur your child on to Competence?"
---Again, I think I am doing this pretty well in my family. The girls have chores and this sense of responsibility will lead to Competence. Further, I make sure to notice when the girls do something around the house or otherwise without being asked.

Finally, Leman asks parents to think about the difference between praise and encouragement and asks parents to think about an encouraging thing to say to her child today.
---Basically, praise compliments the person while encouragement compliments the act. Today, Isabelle played catcher at her softball game. Her throws were spot-on and, overall, she did a great job. After the game, I told her that I thought she did a great job, and I pointed out to her that all that practice with her team and with me and Zoe in the backyard really paid off. I think now she realizes what becomes of hard work and will continue to work hard, and more importantly, will want to.

Day Four Outcome:
Today was a huge success! We spent almost the whole day at the fields. Each of the girls had a game today, one right after the other. This gave us the opportunity to support the daughter/sister playing in the game together as a family. In the midst of Izzy's game, Peyton wanted to go play on the playground, but I reminded her that we are a family and that we support each other. Zoe and Isabelle did a great job of supporting each other today. They cheered for each other and Zoe gave Isabelle some pointers and a whole lot of encouragement. I was a very proud Mama today!