Seeing the Signs of Joy

One of the best ways to know you are doing a good job parenting is when you see the little signs of joy coming from your kids. If your kids are generally happy and upbeat in life, it likely means they have the right balance of freedom and guidance, play and responsibility, self-direction and parent involvement. Any time you see them running with fervor, engaged and focused in an activity, or yelling, "Hey mom, look what I did!" remind yourself that you are doing a great job. Parenting takes a great deal of patience, thought, and putting yourself last, so make sure you take advantage of the joys, and pat yourself on the back!