New column has advice for helping families with kids

Talk about it

“There is no trust more sacred than the one the world holds with children. There is no duty more important than ensuring that their rights are respected, that their welfare is protected, that their lives are free from fear and want, and that they grow up in peace.” —Kofi Annan

The lives of children are on our collective mind. Last week, the Minnesota House conducted three days of hearings on gun violence. Currently there are 23 firearms-related bills up for consideration before the state Legislature. Many of them were introduced this session in response to the mass killing of 20 children in Connecticut in December, but testimony at the hearings also included reminiscences of similar tragedies closer to home.

Locally, meetings are going on to discuss the four-day school week and whether Lake Superior School District schools should continue with the shortened schedule. Administrators, parents and concerned citizens have been weighing in to ensure that the education of our kids is not suffering under the shortened week structure.

On a more cheerful note, it was so much fun to see kids (and grownups) enjoying the events and activities at the Two Harbors Winter Frolic over the weekend. And up on Lax Lake, there was a kids fishing contest. Kids, parents and pets were on hand for the event. The photos tell the story of a good day there, too.

Most of us care deeply about the world in which our children live and we carry the hope that they will grow up healthy and happy, to care about others and contributing something positive to the lives they touch. But before kids reach the point where they can meet these lofty parental aspirations, they have to learn dozens — possibly thousands of skills that will allow them to become successful in relationships, school and the community. I don’t know about you, but as a parent there were days when I felt that I was flying by the seat of my pants. I was just happy when everyone made it to bedtime without any major mishaps, skinned knees or emotional meltdowns — myself included.

The truth is, no matter how much we love our kids and grandkids, there are times when we could use some new insights into helping them learn and grow.

This week we’re welcoming a new columnist to the Lake County News-Chronicle. Deb Archer is a licensed pre-school teacher and parent educator with two decades of experience. She’ll be offering her ideas for guiding kids, parents and grandparents (and the extended families of aunts, uncles, friends of the family, etc.) through the fun, fascinating and sometimes frantic world of young children.

I think you’ll enjoy Deb’s column. Please let us know what you think and feel free to send your comments and questions to chronicle@lcnewschronicle.com

Tags: opinion