You know those “being a parent” quotes that stop you in your tracks when you read them? The ones that make you think, that make you a little bit tearful, that get to the heart of parenting. Here’s one, If I Had My Child to Raise Over Again, by Diane Loomans.

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If I had my child to raise over again by Diane Loomans

If I had my child to raise over again

I’d finger paint more, and point the finger less.

I’d do less correcting, and more connecting.

I’d take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.

I would care to know less, and know to care more.

I’d take more hikes and fly more kites.

I’d stop playing serious, and seriously play.

I’d run through more fields, and gaze at more stars.

I’d do more hugging, and less tugging.

I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.

I’d build self-esteem first, and the house later.

I’d teach less about the love of power,

And more about the power of love.

It matters not whether my child is big or small,

From this day forth, I’ll cherish it all.

You might also enjoy reading The Last Time and To My Grown Up Son

Over to you now. What did you think of this parenting quote by Diane Loomans? Tell us your feelings in the comments below.