We know more about nutrition than past generations. We've identified learning disorders and new educational techniques. We give our children every advantage we can afford, and some we cannot afford. We organize, direct, enroll, coach, and transport our children to and from lessons, games, practices, social events, doctor's appointments and schools. We are trying to be good parents and give our children all they need to develop into well-rounded and successful adults. We may, however, be missing the very core of our child's being, his spirituality. Spirituality is the base from which grows self-esteem, values, morals, and a sense of belonging. It is what gives life direction and meaning. I believe we have entered into a sacred contract when we bring children into the world. A contract that says we are willing to help these children understand and wisely use their spiritual powers expressive of a greater Divine energy.

All children begin life with an innate sense of wonder about their world. They are naturally intuitive and open. We, as parents, can foster this precious state of being with our words, actions, and attentiveness. Where there is wonder there is spirituality. The ordinary becomes the incredible when we live life as a prayer, a soulful journey, when we endow the daily routine with magic. When we stop the chaos of daily life and celebrate the small moments we provide our children the joy of the moment, we affirm and acknowledge their true state of being.

"How, you ask?" "I'm so busy now, where am I possibly going to get the time to nurture my child's soul?" I assure you, as a mother of two young children who also strives to put my voice and work out into the world, that it is not only possible but can easily work in any kind of family in any kind of home.

Here are a few ideas to get you started and 5 of my 10 PRINCIPLES FOR SPIRITUAL PARENTING:

1. Listen to Your Child! Children have wisdom and they are naturally in touch with their intuition. If we listen and honor their instincts they will learn to do so as well. When a child says, "It just doesn't feel right Mama," it's time to go deeper and find out why.

Not only does listening help children to validate their own deepest intuition it also is a joyful, insightful and often inspirational time for the adult. I have learned so much from kids. In my book Drawing Angels Near, children have touched thousands of readers with quotes such as "A long time ago when I was born, I thought of all the things I had made before. It was that time that I knew the angels." (Age 4)

Set aside time to listen to your child. In the evenings before bed, a walk in the park, Saturday morning breakfast, or a special date for just the two of you. Listen! Don't do all the talking. Hear what he/she is saying and you'll be amazed at the things that come up...

>>> Continue Reading "5 Principles for Spiritual Parenting"

© Copyright Mimi Doe. This article was originally published at our website, SoulfulLiving.com, in November 2001, as part of Soulful Living's "Family and Community" Issue.

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