Parents As Primary Educators

So exactly, what is the job of a primary educator? It is to create a family atmosphere so animated with love and reverence for God and others, that your children become personally and socially well-rounded. Your home is the first school for the everyday human virtues which every society needs.

Truthfully, the family exists at the heart of all societies. It is the first and most basic community to which every person belongs. There is nothing more fundamental to our vitality as a society and as a Church. That is why Pope John Paul II said “The future of humanity passes by way of the family” (On the Family, no. 86.)

As a parent, you are the head of your family. It is true that a marriage where the parent’s spousal love serves as a firm and stable foundation for the children makes the role of primary educator easier. And it is also true that parents raising children outside of a traditional marriage will face more challenges. Yet, it is still possible and necessary to teach the way of Christian love. No matter what type of family configuration you have (traditional, extended, blended, single, etc.) we encourage you to “become what you are”. (On the Family, no. 17)

Consider it a privilege to show children the meaning of life and love. You have been given the ability by God to assist them in knowing who they are, how they were made, and how they should live. It is your obligation to help your children identify their God-given gifts as well as to teach them to share their uniqueness with others.

If you put your heart and soul into this amazing role you will see your children grow up to be happy, healthy and holy adults. By being an example of self-giving love to your children, you will deepen your relationship with them and your family will become one spirit, one heart, and one mind. What a blessing.

Virtues Demonstrated by Catholic Parents

• Demonstrate virtuous living (prudence – knowing what is right, justice – doing what is right, fortitude – moral courage and temperance – self control)
• Help children make sacrifices
• Teach children to wait, to be patient
• Educate children to love God
• Educate children to love others
• Live conjugal chastity within your marriage
• Create a family atmosphere inspired by love and devotion to God and your fellow man
• Help children to value sexuality and chastity
• Help children discover their vocation in life
• Be generous to life
• Help your children be generous
• Teach the consequences of separating love from life
• Find time to be with your children
• Take time to talk with your children
• Listen carefully to your children
• Help your children channel their anxieties and aspirations correctly
• Monitor the mass media that your children are exposed to
• Pray with and for your children
• Demonstrate faith in God
• Offer good example and leadership
• Live in such a manner that your children know people are more important than things
• Pay particular attention to their children’s gradual development (physically, psychologically, spiritually)
• Share the beauty of God’s plan for love and life without anxiety, fear or obsessive concern
• Answer questions with well – reasoned arguments that do not overburden your child
• Teach the value of Christian modesty
• Know how and when to say “NO” to your children
• Cultivate in your children a taste for what is beautiful, noble and true.