Babies don't understand
It is apparent that our babies do not understand everything we say. They may not know yet how to fetch the mail for you or wash the dishes, but they understand a couple of other things. They do know for example if you are agitated, angry or in a terrible mood. They can feel when the air is negatively electric and may also react accordingly. Some individuals may even remember the state of heightened anxiety when they were babies even if they do not remember the exact details. It is always best therefore to keep babies safe from negative talk and actions.
Babies are clean slates
The nature vs. nurture conflict of ideas may not have been completely settled yet but it is wrong to always think that babies are clean slates. Observe your babies closely and you will realize that even in a highly controlled environment, they will exhibit certain actions and behavior that nobody ever taught them.
Science can't prove beyond reasonable doubt that babies have their own natures, but based on observations, the nature theory might hold some water. It is always a good idea therefore to later fit your toddler discipline strategies according to what you have observed to be natural traits in your child. A naturally stubborn child for example may not budge with authoritarian discipline.
Babies will outgrow bad habits
Babies will be babies and it will be a form of cruelty to expect them to stop their infant habits immediately. It is also wrong however to believe that babies will eventually leave all of their bad habits behind when they grow up. As a parent you need to be a little bit more observant. Some habits like thumb sucking, screaming and throwing food need to be corrected at some point. Sometimes, these habits may be a symptom of something else or may be carried on to adulthood. In this aspect, it is always best to consult experts.
Babies don't need to know you
Again, just because babies don't understand everything you say, it doesn't mean that you can postpone forming a meaningful relationship with your child until he is a teenager. As soon as your baby can look at you and react to your voice and expressions, start making friends with him even if you sometimes look and sound like a fool. The more you talk, play and interact with your baby, the earlier he will form an attachment to you and become your friend.
Babies don't need to be taught at home
There is a saying that parents are the first teachers. You should not trust the day care to give your child his first lesson on the ABCs of life. Aside from teaching your children basic academic knowledge that is fit for their age, their education should also include something about life and life values. Who else will tell them what's wrong and what's right but their parents?
