What Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Taught Me about Parenting
By Deanna Hurn, Founder and Director of Miracle Math Coaching
Today we celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was a great civil rights leader who stressed the importance of unity and community service. (Many people honor the day by volunteering.) As a parent, I realize that some of his teachings relate to the most important job in my life – being a Mom. Here’s what I’ve learned from Dr. King:
Family is All-Important. King was married to Coretta Scott King and doted on his daughters and sons. They are Yolanda, Bernice, Martin, Jr. and Dexter. The loving care he showed toward his wife and children is described in the picture book, “My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,” written by Martin Luther King, III (published by Harper Collins, for ages 4 to 8). It’s a reminder of what matters most in my life – my husband and three girls.
It’s Important to Leave a Legacy. Remembered for his courage and ability to bring people together, Dr. King lives on in the memory of many. How do you want your children to remember you? Is it the way you tell them, “I love you,” everyday? How you assist family and friends in need? The strength of your hugs? The brightness of your smile? The loving spirit that I show consistently – even when I don’t feel like it – will be what my children remember; that will be part of my legacy to them.
Encourage your Young Ones to Dream. One of King’s most famous speeches was “I Have a Dream.” He envisioned a world where all people lived together in harmony.
It’s never too early to help your children envision their own future. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” is a great question to pose. They might not eventually become the firefighter or police woman they aspire to now. But by reminding them of their dreams, you’re reinforcing that whatever they believe, they can achieve. You’re showing that you have faith in them. You’re building their self-confidence.
Want to watch Dr. King’s speech with your children? Click Here
