Fridge Shrine

I'm a firm believer in lists, post it's, inspiration boards and posters. My kitchen walls are a collage of such. Whatever I am trying to work on in my life and parenting I write up so when I retrieve my head from a cupboard I am more grounded in my intentions to GROW in LOVE with my child!

This grubby scrap of paper, held up by jubilant alphabet magnets, is like my pause and recharge portal. I like its clarity - and since I will be soon leaving my house I thought I'd better post it up here to remember! It is an extract (which I've tweaked a bit) from 'Toxic Parents', and helps me to feel both the simplicity and love-centred depth of what is asked of me as a mother.

For Love to Grow:

Children must be fed, clothed, sheltered and protected.

Feelings must be nurtured emotionally, their feelings respected and treated in a way that allows them to develop their self worth.

Give appropriate limits on behaviour, allowing them to make mistakes, and to be disciplined without being physically or emotionally abused.

Allow them the freedom to be children – playful, spontaneous, irresponsible.

Gift children sincere and joyful responsibilities, as an opportunity to grow in self love, love of environment and love of others.

Carer's responsibilties:

Provide for your child's physical needs.

Protect your child from physical harm.

Provide for your child's need for love, attention and affection.

Protect your child from emotional harm.

Provide moral, ethical and loving guidelines for your child.