According to the National Institutes of Health, a school-age child is between the ages of 6 and 12. During these years, it takes a lot of energy, stamina and patience to be a mother. Some of these qualities come naturally, but some you have to work at. The bottom line in all of them, however, is love. You continue to learn and evolve as a mother, but your unconditional love for your child should be constant.
Pay Attention
Demonstrating love toward your children means being 100 percent present when you are with them. Listen and respond to them, and be engaged in their world. According to the Centers for Disease Control, children between the ages of 6-11 are starting to explore their independence. Keeping lines of communication open by talking and listening to your children is a good way to build their self-confidence and keep their trust.
Stay Informed
Being a mother means keeping up with the latest information about child health and development. There are continual advances in the area of children's health. Don't hesitate to seek information or advice from trusted sources, such as medical professionals, teachers or other parents.
Promote Education
Show your children that you believe in the value of education, and that you continue to learn. Read to your children at home, and help them use their math skills in activities like baking or building something. Children whose parents value education and set educational goals for them do better in school, according to the University of Minnesota Extension.
Keep them Healthy
Another important component to being a mother is keeping your children active and physically fit. Plan healthy meals and encourage physical activities, so that they develop lifelong habits that can help them avoid obesity and other health risks. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, you can plan healthy birthday parties by replacing cake and ice cream with fun fruit like watermelon or frozen fruit cups.
Love Your Kids
The importance of a mother's love is based not just on anecdotal experience, but also on science. According to an article in the Biological Psychiatry Journal, maternal love is necessary for a child's mental as well as physical development.
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