Since the dawn of time, the mantra of parents across the globe has been, “There is no guide for raising kids. They don’t come with instructions.” And while this is extremely true, there are things that I believe the parents of today can do to ensure the betterment of tomorrow.

For some of us, kids might not be on the radar for a few more years, and for others, children are already in the picture. But whatever your personal situation is, it is never too early or too late to learn how to impact someone’s life.

In the several jobs I have worked since my formative teenage years, I have had the opportunity to witness many family situations, and I have often said that I’m thankful to witness such things now so that I will know exactly how I want to raise my own children someday. I have heard so many people complaining that this generation has been too coddled, that we are too dependent on those who raised us, and that we are not springing forth into adulthood as we should be. If we want to improve the next generation, then it is time to start educating ourselves.

Any relationship you are ever in requires hard work and dedication, and the relationship you have with your children is no exception. I have seen so many kids act out and get into the wrong types of situations simply for the sake of getting the attention of their parents. Spending time with your kids in a constructive and meaningful way is the most important thing you can do. I am so thankful that even though my parents worked, they always made sure I knew that they had time for me, no matter what. When children feel that their parents put other priorities in front of them, it has an incredibly negative impact on their behavior, thus creating a vicious cycle in which potential playtime is replaced with discipline. I strongly disagree with the idea that children should not be punished for their wrongdoings, because reprimand is how they learn not to repeat an unwanted or offensive behavior. But it must also be understood by the parents of those children that they are simply acting in accordance with how they are being raised.

Now, I’m not going to sit here and preach how you should raise your child, especially because I am not a mother myself. But it breaks my heart when I see children who are being pushed aside. You can give them all the money and toys that you want, but nothing can replace the precious gift of your time. Children need to be in an environment where love is prominent; furthermore, if you don’t have the time to give to your children, you should not have children. They are the greatest miracle that this natural world can give, and the best way to shoulder the responsibility of parenthood is to raise people who are going to make this world a better place. There will be laughter, there will be tears, and there will be days when you want to rip your hair out in frustration. But to see your child one day impact the world as you impacted them is the best reward you could receive.