Democratic Sentinel, Volume 5, Number 12, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 29 April 1881 — Humoring Children. [ARTICLE]

Humoring Children.

It is good to humcr them in all natural manifestations and cravings of their affections. A child hungry-hearted for love is one of the saddest sights in the world. Hardly less pitiful is the condition of a little one perpetually repressed or discouraged in the sweet impulses that prompt it to give expression to his love. That way danger lies. The boy or girl will not easily go wrong whose arm is twined morning and night around mother’s neck, or whose head is welcomed to its cuddling-place on father’s shoulder. It is on the side of their affections that children are most easily held and guided, and the firmest rein is

the invisible, golden cord of love. It is good to hnmor children in following their natural bent in all right, helpful directions. Remember that education is only the leading out of powers and faculties that are within. Encourage, therefore, * such inclinations toward books, studies, mechanics, music, out-of-door pursuits and healthful sports as shall help most truly to develop your child. As education comes more and more to include the development of a natural aptitude, it will be more and more successful. It is good to humor your children in preserving their individuality, and in fostering a true selfrespect. Teach them early the value of a dime and a dollar. If you give them but 5 cents a week, tell them what it costs somebody in labor, and hold them strictly to their allowance. The philosophy of early training is to make the child father to the man—mother to the woman. The homely proverb, “As the twig is bent the tree inclines,” is not yet outgrown. It is as true now as in ancient times, that if some twigs are permitted to grow as they incline the tree will be a crooked one.