How to Establish Roots and Wings Within our Children

- Discussion Question: What parents do to help their children grow "roots and wings." -


ROOTS: "The part of a plant that has no leaves or buds and usually spreads underground, anchoring the plant and absorbing water and nutrients from the soil." Encarta 2003

Bare with me here. 

As parents it is our responsibility to ensure that our children have a deep enough root system to eventually touch those around them in a positive way, nourish themselves, and weather any storm. We do this by giving them stability and security. We teach them discipline and love. We teach them right from wrong by our words and most importantly our actions. We follow through with our words and the consequences we set which builds a foundation of trust in the parent, the child, and the world in general. By the time our children leave home they should feel the confidence to "take on the world." And when they don't, they should know where to turn for an extra shot of Miracle Grow. 

As we work to build our children's root system we simultaneously give them wings to fly. By opening up opportunities for exploration and growth to them we give our children chances to "learn" to fly. Opportunities to resolve conflict, chances to give service, and establishing an understanding of earning what we receive are all wing builders. It is also important for us to help our children discover their strengths and weaknesses. We do this by helping them become involved in new activities and skill building opportunities.