My favorite too, Ken. God knows how I miss those days!

I liked Robert Young in "Father Knows Best" but my #1 Top TV Dad was Ward Cleaver (played by Hugh Beaumont).

Back in the day.....
Ward Cleaver's advice to parents:

1 - BE GENTLE
Children will appreciate your gentleness and not think of you as weak.
Especially if you make an exception to this rule when becoming strong should be necessary on occasion.

2 - BE CONSISTENT
Don't give your children one decision now and reverse yourself 10 minutes later. Stick to your guns.
No, not those guns with bullets! (hahaha)

3 - BE HONEST
Don't ask your children to lie for you on the phone or in any other way.

4 - DON'T STOP GROWING
If your children see that you are still willing to learn, you shorten the gap between adults and children.

5 - DON'T MAKE DEMANDS
Be statisfied with less than perfection from your children. Don't demand they be best in their class or the top athlete.

6 - HAVE A SOFT VOICE
Cultivate a soft voice. During periods of excitement, a soft voice and understanding will get more attention than a shout.

7 - STAY POSITIVE
Don't let your kids become discouraged no matter how "dark" things may seem.
In my own case, I always bring to mind the old saying: "This Too Shall Pass."









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