For my philosophy of parenting, I owe a debt of gratitude to the movie Ratatouille.
In the movie, Chef Gusteau's motto, "Anyone Can Cook!" inspires Remy, a suburban Parisian rat to cook in a 4-star restaurant under the toque of a garbage boy. His technique is sophisticated, his results are sublime. The critic swoons over Remy's ratatouille, a brilliant sensory reminder of childhood in his mother's kitchen. If a rat can cook, anyone can.
I believe parents are leaders. All parents. Not just the ones whose kids nominate them for father or mother of the year. Not just the ones whose kids win scholastic awards, or make it to the all-star team. Not just the ones whose kids dress impeccably, in the latest fashion, and address all adults as “Sir” or “Ma’am.” Even parents of playground bullies and kids who start food fights in restaurants are leaders. But some parents are better leaders than others. And all of us have better days and not-so-better days.
There are many, many recipes for good parenting. And no one approach, technique, or list of ingredients will suit every parenting relationship. Or every day.
The best chefs know many techniques, are aware of how they work and when to apply them for the most scrumptious results. The most successful parents have great love for their children, focus energy on understanding the ingredients that make each child unique, and flexibly tailor their parenting approach as the child and the situation require. And the results are delicious!
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