Please...Understand that
I am growing up and changing very fast.
It must be difficult to keep pace with me, but please try.

Listen to me
and give me brief clear answers to my questions.
Then I will keep sharing my thoughts and feelings.

Reward me
for telling the truth.  Then I am not frightened into lying.

Pay attention
to me, and spend time with me.
Then I can believe that I am important and worthwhile.

Do the things
you want me to. Then I have a good, positive model.

Trust and respect me
Even though I am smaller than you,
I have feelings and needs just like you.

Compliment and appreciate me.
Then I'll feel good,
and I'll want to continue to please you.

Help me
explore my unique interests, talents and potential.
In order for me to be happy, I need to be me, 
and not you or someone you want me to be.

Be an individual
and create your own happiness.
Then you can teach me the same, and I can live
a happy, successful and fulfilling life.
 
By Ms. Helene Rothschild, M.A.

As I Grow.....