Helpful hints for parents

Former U.S. Vice President Dan Quayle and clinical psychologist Diane Medved collaborated on The American Family: Discovering the Values That Make Us Strong (1996). Here are some of their tips for bringing up successful children:

• Be a cheerleader to your children. A parent teaches values by example.

• Make your home the center of your children's activities.

• Children need standards set by both the father and mother.

• Respect for the family is essential. At the daily send-off, let them know they are representing the family at their school.

• Inflexible activities, such as the children's bedtime, give the children order and security. They also help parents retain authority.

• Engender love for education by reading to your children and helping them through their homework. This promotes education and helps parents and children to bond.

• Parents should stick to their word.

• Emphasize completion of a project. It builds confidence and security.

• Teach gratitude for special privileges and gifts. When your children receive services or goods from others, encourage them to be thankful.

• Parents should be punctual. This teaches reliability as well as respect for others. A penalty can be given if children begin to develop a habit of lateness.