We asked some of the best parents we know to tell us about the most important thing they’ve done as parents and have shared their wisdom below.

Henry Herz | Author (Children’s Books and Adult Short Stories)

Years ago, I wanted to share my love of reading fantasy with my young sons. They were too little for watching most of the fantasy and sci-fi movie classics, and there are only so many good fantasy books available for that age range. One day, I came up with a way to share the joy of entering the magical realms of fantasy. I would write a fantasy book for them. That decision had two unintended consequences. First, I did not anticipate was that my boys would give me feedback on the story. They devised some of the character and creature names, and made plot line suggestions. And who better to help make the story appealing to kids than other kids? So, the goal of interesting my sons in fantasy transformed into also encouraging them to write. Second, we ended up self-publishing that book, which created another development opportunity for my sons. Read more>>

Anita Colemon | Creative & Crafty Mama

The most important thing I am actively teaching my children is to try new things and challenge yourself. For my husband and I as our children are getting older, now four and two, is to be brave and adventurous. To view the world as a great big opportunity to challenge yourself and do something maybe you were unsure you could do or in general overcoming the fear of failure. I personally have experienced that fear of failure time and time again, only now do I feel that confidence to step out and try something new knowing that failure is just a lesson to be learned and how to adapt until successful. We not only speak to our children but we show them, by being the example that you are never too young or old to learn a new skill or chase a long time dream. Read more>>

Obed Torres | Personal Chef

I believe that one of the most important decisions that I have made is to start my own business, and I think this has a positive outcome in the growth of my child because it gives me more quality time to spend with him since I am my own boss and I make my own schedule. Before starting my own business I used to work, running a couple of kitchens and I never had the time to participate in my son’s school activities or special occasions. That’s why I think I made a very important decision for the sake of my family, and more important to find the right balance that made these things possible. Read more>>