Instead we need to be with our children, be willing that they join in with us on our projects, and be willing to take part in theirs.  We need to work hard and do our best at it without complaining but also knowing when to quit and relax so our children can learn.  We need to gently show them the right way to do something without frustrating them.  We need to think of work as a blessing so we can show our children this blessing from God.

My kids used to always complain about how serious I was and how Daddy was more fun.  I would forget to spend time playing with the kids because I get caught up in other projects.  I didn’t spend much time just being with them, playing.  It has taken a concerted effort on my part to stop being so serious, to relax, and in odd moments play with them–tickle fights, kiss attacks, joking around, you name it.  Over the last few months I have made progress. I know because the other day we were messing about, having fun with each other, playing, when my oldest told me that I am always so much fun to be with (this after reacting in shock a few months ago when I made a joke.)  Yes I am making progress.

*Disclaimer–I do NOT think that parents should be their child’s friend, or at least not until they are past the stage of needing parenting.  God gave us children and expects us to train them to serve Him.  However, willingness to play, to have fun, to enjoy being together, is part of that package.

Dad: Calvin, your mom and I looked over your report card, and we think you could be doing better.

Calvin: But I don’t like school.

Dad: Why not? You like to read and you like to learn. I know you do. I mean you’ve read every dinosaur book ever written, and you’ve learned a lot, right? Reading and learning are fun.

Calvin (thoughtfully): Yeah.

Dad: So why don’t you like school?

Calvin: We don’t read about dinosaurs.

from The Indispensable Calvin And Hobbes