Parents should enjoy time with children, not just send them to daycare

Editor:

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After reading the March 12 story in The News-Times, "Parents see benefit of early childhood education," I must speak up.

As the season is upon us for pre-kindergarten and mothers day out program enrollments, parents are deciding how and where to educate their children.

Parents, please do not miss these years with your children. Somewhere along the way we've been conditioned to believe that our children are better off left in the care of professionals who will fill their day with "fun and educational activities." I urge parents to examine this philosophy.

I fully understand the challenges of parenting as a mother of three small children ages 4 years, 3 years and 10 months. My days are full, but incredibly, my heart is fuller.

There is no doubt that children will never produce long-term what is not poured into them daily. Yes, it's great for a preschooler to know their ABCs and numbers, but who is walking with them as their character is developing? Checking their hearts' motives? Just plain-old loving on them?

Parents, please slow down. This time is a gift. Do not miss it for anything.

Kelli Graham

Evans