To them a newborn isn't "just" a baby, he or she is a person with a spirit that requires nourishing to bring it to full flower.

From birth to the change of teeth, around six or seven, it is the parents' duty and obligation to provide the most loving and nurturing environment possible in order for their children to have a deep feeling and appreciation for truth, beauty and goodness.

YOU ARE THE ROLE MODELS
During this stage, children learn by imitating. If they live in an abusive family, they will learn to abuse. If their parents are indifferent to another's pain or to the needs of their children, these young people will be indifferent to the misfortunes of others.

If, on the other hand, children live in a loving home where mutual respect and insights--realized or not--into the spiritual nature of their children are everyday occurrences, they will develop into teens and adults with similar virtues.

Being so close to their source, children are extremely sensitive to their surroundings and haven't yet been hardened by the materialistic world. It's up to the parents--or other adult caregivers--to treat their little ones with the respect they deserve, to have serenity in their home, attractive and nutritious food, and love.

LISTEN TO YOUR CHILDREN
Take time to be with your children, not just in the same room, but communicating with them. Talk with them but more importantly, listen to them. The more you do, the more you will understand them. And the more you understand them, the more you'll respect them. And the more you respect them, the more they'll respect you.

We can't improve on some old sayings: "What goes around, comes around" and "The apple never falls far from the tree."