The "Science" of Parenting

In our thirst for advancement we have developed a "science" for everything from medicine to manufacturing. In our professional work a growing list of certifications are necessary to stay competitive as people clamor to find the "best practices." Yet parenting, our most important work, remains largely an art rather than a science. As parents there are no formal certifications or continuing education to teach us best practices.

Parenting is a little like taking your car to the mechanic who says, "I've never done this before, let me call my mom and see if she knows what to do." It is clear that parents want their children to be happy, but few of us are sure exactly what we need to do in our own lives to achieve lasting happiness, let alone what we should do in our parenting efforts to make happiness as reality for our children.