"-My hands are small; please don't expect perfection whenever I make my bed, draw a picture, or throw a ball. My legs are short; please slow down so I can keep up with you.

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-My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; please let me explore safely. Don't restrict me unnecessarily. 

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-Housework will always be there. I'm only little for a short time-please take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.

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-My feelings are tender; please be sensitive to my needs. Don't nag me all day long...treat me as you like to be treated.

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-I am a special gift from God; please treasure me as God intended you to do, holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by, and disciplining me in a loving manner.

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-I need your encouragement to grow. Please go easy on the criticism; remember you can criticize the things I do without criticizing me.

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-Please give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to fail, so that I can learn from my mistakes. Then someday I'll be prepared to make the kind of decisions life requires of me.

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-Please don't do things over for me. Somehow that makes me feel that my efforts didn't quite measure up to your expectations. I know it's hard, but please don't try to compare me with my brother or sister.

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-Please don't be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacations from parents just like parents need vacations from kids. Besides, it's a great way to show us kids that your marriage is very special."

-Excerpt from Chuck Swindoll's "Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life"