I'm not a parent (yet) and I'll admit right away that I'm not qualified to give anyone advice.
Although I'm an uncle to a few bright young kids (and do a pretty good job, if I say so myself), that's just not comparable to bringing up children of my own.
But it would be tough to find someone with better parenting tips than bestselling author Dr. Kevin Leman, who wrote the classic parenting guide The Birth Order Book.
His classic piece "A Child's Ten Commandments to Parents," originally published in 1981, is still considered the gold standard for parenting advice, because his suggestions come straight from a child's mouth.
We guarantee the list features at least one piece of wisdom that will change your relationship with your children - as long as you actually follow his advice.
1. Don't expect perfection
My hands are small; please don't expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture or throw a ball. My legs are short; please slow down so that I can keep up with you.
2. Give me room to grow
My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; please let me explore safely. Don't restrict me unnecessarily.
3. Focus on what really matters
Housework will always be there. I'm only little for a short time - please take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.
4. Put yourself in my shoes
My feelings are tender; please be sensitive to my needs. Don't nag me all day long. (You wouldn't want to be nagged for your inquisitiveness). Treat me as you would like to be treated.
5. Teach me responsibility
I am a special gift from God; please treasure me as God intended you to do, holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by and disciplining me in a loving manner.
6. Lift me up, don't put me down
I need your encouragement to grow. Please go easy on the criticism; remember, you can criticize the things I do without criticizing me.
7. Let me learn from my mistakes
Please give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to fail, so that I can learn from my mistakes. Then someday I'll be prepared to make the kinds of decisions life requires of me.
8. Let me be me
Please don't do things over for me. Somehow that makes me feel that my efforts didn't quite measure up to your expectations. I know it's hard, but please don't try to compare me with my brother or sister.
9. Give me some space
Please don't be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacations from parents, just as parents need vacations from kids. Besides, it's a great way to show us kids that your marriage is very special.
10. Set a good example for me
Please take me to Sunday school and church regularly, setting a good example for me to follow. I enjoy learning more about God.
