“How do you guys prevent your kids from being selfish?” I asked our friends earnestly. Specifically at that moment in time it seemed like our two boys were becoming a little too obsessed with electronics, their Legos, and everything material. I was hoping for some strategies to help them be at least a little less self-obsessed.
They laughed. “Let us know when you figure that one out!”
Maybe you’re laughing too.
Poor naïve little me—I was a little surprised! Up until this point (my oldest was then five), I expected that whatever parenting dilemma I had, it was only temporary. Kids eventually sleep through the night; they don’t stay in diapers or drink bottles forever; they can be taught to control tantrums.
But selfishness? Do most adults even overcome that?
This conversation happened a couple of years ago at a parenting class. I remember it because it was one of those defining moments when I realized: This problem is BIG. And we will be battling it for a long time…
I have the honor today as a guest over at Lizzy Life. Elizabeth Laing Thomson is a writer I admire tremendously—plus she has phenomenal parenting tips. Finish this post about cultivating compassion here.
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Hi Gina,
I read this on Elizabeth’s site and thought your tips were really helpful. I’m going to check out some of your family devotionals to help our kids in this area. Thanks so much for sharing.
I’m glad I found your site and the rich set of resources you have here.
Marva | sunSPARKLEshine
Hi Marva, thanks I saw that! I’ll be checking out your website as well 🙂