Our Children Are Our Legacy “A child is a person who is going to carry on what you have
started. He is going to sit where you are sitting, and when you are gone, attend to those things which you think are important.
You may adopt all the policies you please, but how they are
carried out depends on him. He will assume control of your cities, states, and nations. He is going to move in and take over your churches, schools, universities, and corporations. The fate of humanity is in his hands.” --- Abraham Lincoln
When you see your children in the future, what do you hope for? Children who are self-sufficient, happy, educated, a positive asset to society, successful, and giving? How can
you as a parent guide your children to reach their potential? There are three areas of focus in building a legacy of contributors to society rather than takers from society:
1) Know and appreciate your family heritage.
As parents, it is our responsibility to provide our children with a sense of belonging and understanding of our heritage. As a family, whether once a week, once a month or even once a year, include one activity or create a tradition that will “capture” facts and stories. Let your children know their heritage including religion, ethnicity, all the struggles, trials and accomplishments of the family’s past generations.
Share the positive experiences. Include your own stories and encourage your children to share their memories. Knowing who you are and where you came from brings a sense of pride to the human soul. Record these stories on paper, or audio, and/or on video. Use the best technology possible to ensure long term existence of the stories.
2) Promote and foster individual human development. According to Jean Piaget, a Swiss psychologist, a child’s thinking changes as they grow and interact with the environment. Parents creating an environment where children can learn and grow in a positive manner is essential to human development.
Piaget believes that children must be actively involved in learning and not recipients of what others deliver. Allow your children to grow and develop as individuals. Focus on their strong points and build upon them. For instance if a child shows signs of becoming a great leader, let the child assume leadership roles within the family.
3) Encourage experience with the world’s culture, people, and languages. Traveling and experiencing other cultures opens the world to a child’s eyes. Encourage them to learn different languages and to be open about other cultures. By opening their hearts and minds to a culture different than their own, you are not only developing knowledge, but you are creating a sense of understanding and compassion.
Each family member is empowered when you enhance the Intellectual and Human Assets in your children’s lives. Encourage formal education, wisdom, unique abilities and relationships. Your children are your legacy.
If you would like help achieving financial freedom or planning for your future today, we would love to hear from you!
Dean Kavanagh Financial Services Phone: +61 2 9954 5888
Fax: +61 2 9954 5895 Email: enquiries@dkfs.com.au Level 7, 80 Arthur Street,
North Sydney NSW 2060 PO Box 548 Milsons Point NSW 1565
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