In the hustle and bustle of our busy lives,  it’s REALLY tough to be an engaged parent. No, I’m not talking about wedding planning here. I’m talking about being fully present and involved in our children. Seizing teachable moments as they are presented. Using the mundane to instruct. Actively pursuing opportunities to mentor our children.

The bottom line is that we are our children’s first teachers. Whether we homeschool or send our children to public, private, or charter schools, WE are responsible for their education. As challenging as it is, we need to learn to look for ways to use our everyday activities to teach them.

The parable presented HERE shows how three different parents used or missed an important opportunity to teach while shopping for groceries.

I’m sad to say…I’ve been the first parent too many times. I’ve shushed my kids and rushed them along rather than pausing for the very brief period of time necessary to engage in parenting.

But I want to do better!

What are some ways you seek out teachable moments throughout your daily life? Have you blogged about this? Link up in the comments. We can learn from one another!

(photo from msn clip art)