Many Mothers Help Children Develop and Grow in a Family

Mothers know that they are the cornerstone in their young children’s lives.  Mothers and other maternal figures, such as grandmothers, aunts and even godmothers are the people to whom young children turn to for life’s issues big and small.  They are the ones to kiss the boo-boos, take the temperatures and find the missing teddy bear at bed time. 

 

But what about when the babies aren’t babies anymore?  Many mothers find themselves at odd with the role of ultimate caregiver. All too often, the women in a child’s life are pushed to the side in favor or friends, teachers and coaches.  For the mother and children alike, the period of time from 6 to 18 years can be trying to say the least.  However, this is exactly the time when mothers and grandmothers can have the greatest effect over their children’s behavior and the type of adults they will ultimately become.

 

Of all of the influential women in a child’s life, the mother generally has the more difficult time with the transition from baby to child and child to teen.  It can be difficult to help your child through these stages of life, when you are at odds with them yourself.  The best thing that a mom can do is to remember to talk to and listen to their kids.  As they grow, their mom is one of their most valuable allies in this world.  However, even mom can’t do it alone, parents need help too.

 

A grandmother has a very unique position within the family, she not only has years of experience in child-rearing, but she also sees the children from a different perspective than that of the mother.  A grandmother can be a great friend to a mother and her child, it is important that the mother and the grandmother be on the same page, that they communicate with one another to avoid sending mixed messages to the children. 

 

Mother’s friends, aunts and godmothers are also good for children in this age group to have in their lives.  These women play a different role for the children, they are more like friends and in some cases, even peers.  Kids tend to have an easier time talking about issues with an aunt than their mother or grandmother, this is especially true for girls. 


One of the simplest things that a woman can do for the children in her life is to affirm her love and adoration for them. 

 

There are many ways in which this can be done, but the simplest, and often most effective, way is to write an "I Treasure You" note to the child.  This can be a quick note left in a lunch box or on an "I Treasure You" note card stationery and mailed.  Either way, the effect that receiving such a letter will have on the child is immeasurable. These types of letters lift the self-esteem of a child in a way that nothing else can. 

 

As a mother, it is vital to realize that you do not have to be, nor are you expected to be the sole female in your child’s life.  You have a community of women in your family who are willing and able to help you set your child on the right path as well as to keep them there. These women are valuable to you and your children use them and cherish them.

 

Link to next article: Modern Challenges that Divorced and Single Mothers Face in Raising Children