How To Talk So Kids Will Listen 
                & Listen So Kids Will Talk

This is our last day together
        We certainly had wonderful weather
And now that we must say, "Adieu"
        How will I remember you?
You were a class most attentive
        (With no VCR we became inventive).
And what do I want you to have learned
        So I can be sure my fee I've earned?

First, that you see not your child
        As something growing up so wild,
Nor as a "small adult" in his thinking
        Nor at his faults to be always winking.
When you look at your child may you see
        Not what he is but what he will be.
Never give up nor be too discouraged
        Use your words to help him to be encouraged.

When you can not give him what he demands, you see,
        Don't be so practical but give it to him in fantasy.
And when you are not a perfect parent, may you find
        That your imperfection can help you to be kind.
Use your praises sparingly but always be quite proud.
        Never criticize with voices that are loud.
Set the limits that the child can reach
        Set an example then you won't preach.

Be as consistent as you can (no matter what you endure)
        For it is consistency that makes a child secure.
And never look for the child to want to cooperate
        But always let the child know that you think him great.
Live before him every day so when that day is through
        Your child can say quite proudly, "I want to be like you!"
And may God give you wisdom and the confidence
        That you can make, for you child, all the difference.

Dr. George H. Van Sandt, May 20, 1998