24
Child Guidance
Teach Helpfulness at an Early Age—Very early the lesson of
helpfulness should be taught the child. As soon as strength and rea-
soning power are sufficiently developed, he should be given duties to
perform in the home. He should be encouraged in trying to help father
and mother, encouraged to deny and to control himself, to put others’
happiness and convenience before his own, to watch for opportunities
to cheer and assist brothers and sisters and playmates, and to show
kindness to the aged, the sick, and the unfortunate. The more fully
the spirit of true ministry pervades the home, the more fully it will be
developed in the lives of the children. They will learn to find joy in
service and sacrifice for the good of others
Parents, help your children to do the will of God by being faithful in
the performance of the duties which really belong to them as members
of the family. This will give them a most valuable experience. It will
teach them that they are not to center their thoughts upon themselves,
to do their own pleasure, or to amuse themselves. Patiently educate
them to act their part in the family circle
Fashion Character by Little Attentions, Often Repeated—
Parents, in the training of your children, study the lessons that God
has given in nature. If you would train a pink, or rose, or lily, how
would you do it? Ask the gardener by what process he makes every
branch and leaf to flourish so beautifully, and to develop in symmetry
and loveliness. He will tell you that it was by no rude touch, no violent
[37]
effort; for this would only break the delicate stems. It was by little
attentions, often repeated. He moistened the soil and protected the
growing plants from the fierce blasts and from the scorching sun, and
God caused them to flourish and to blossom into loveliness. In deal-
ing with your children, follow the method of the gardener. By gentle
touches, by loving ministrations, seek to fashion their characters after
the pattern of the character of Christ
Give Attention to Little Things—What a great mistake is made
in the education of children and youth, in favoring, indulging, and
petting them! They become selfish and inefficient, and lack energy
in the little things of life. They are not trained to acquire strength of
17
The Ministry of Healing, 401
.
18
The Review and Herald, November 17, 1896
.
19
The Desire of Ages, 516
.