I am a parent (stay-at-home dad) of two boys (10 and 14 years old). Best advice that I can give is ‘attachment parenting’ and teaching/encouraging ‘emotional intelligence’. Those two were the most recommended by the top child psychologists on Earth.
Both boys have been in gifted and talented programs (without any parental pressure) for many years and are on track to receive full scholarships.
In short, we have talked to them about everything…talk talk and more talk…encourage them to talk about their feelings/emotions…if they feel ashamed about talking to their parents about something, then find someone (friend, family member, school counselor, etc) to talk about it.
From infancy until around the age of four, we would read to them. We’d sit in a chair, place them on our lap, hold the book open right in front of them and read. As they grew older we explained that there is a direct relationship between reading comprehension skills (critical thinking) and the amount of money one could earn in a career. Basically, we asked them: Do you want this type of mid-sized house/property, two cars, time off of work, pets, etc? -> Read and understand what you are reading.
I’m happy for you. Reading and communication are both so important for their development. Thanks for sharing your success!
thanks for this! do you have any favorite books you’ve read regarding the topic you’d recommend? and side note: any advice on being a stay at home dad? my partner is going to be a SAHD soon and i’m always looking out for resources.
The Sears Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby from Birth to Age Two. That was my ‘baby bible’ and I always had it out on the kitchen counter for reference.
Depending on the child (because they are all unique) a stay-at-home dad may not be able to handle the first two to three years. I had a nervous breakdown when my second son was about 1 1/2 years old. This necessitated that he spend most of his time, for over one year, at a nanny’s home.
If you can’t afford a nanny (or would rather not use that option), have a few back up plans. For example, have willing family members that will give dad breaks almost every day. The more hands and arms the better.
As far as emotional intelligence subject matter, I’d recommend going to a big box book store and read as much as possible about it.
