Why Being a Great Parent is Less Work and More Fun Than You Think
- You count too: a common sense guide to happier parenting
- Over two thirds of people without kids over 40 regret not having kids
- 91 percent of parents over 40 say they’d do it again
- Only do stuff for your kids if it passes this test:
- Do I enjoy it?
- Does my child enjoy it?
- Are there any long-run benefits?
- Mandatory naps until kids can entertain themselves for an hour
- TV is not that bad, it’s okay if you use it
- Make use of parent-only getaways rather than family vacations (those are never fun)
- Clarity, consistency, consequences
- Outsource the worst hours of child care – get that part-time nanny
- Feel okay about spending $$ on take out, electronic babysitters, and cleaning services because your happiness is at stake
- Trade favors with your kids – if it falls on deaf ears, you’re doing too much for free
- (Side note: make them pay half for big things, it works great – KMac’s dad)
- The case against guilt: a parent’s guide to behavioral genetics
- Nature matters a LOT more than nurture
- Parents have zero effect on overall health (aside from genetic disease)
- Parents have a small effect on smoking, drinking, and drug problems (because these are genetic)
- Parents have zero effect on intelligence (genetic)
- Self esteem comes from within, not from parents
- Success = genetics, no effect on grades, amount of schooling, or how much money kids make
- Parents have no affect on conscientiousness or agreeableness, criminal behavior
- Parents have a big effect on religious and political labels, but not attitudes and behavior
- Parents have moderate effect on when daughters have sex, none on sons
- But you will be appreciated for your efforts
- Kids are safer than ever before so don’t be all over protective
- Family planning: how many kids do you want when you’re 60?