10 Parenting Lessons We Learned from Kate Gosselin
As we say goodbye to the Gosselins tonight on the last episode of Kate+8, the Parentables team took a look back at the show's run -- and at the many lessons we learned from Kate herself. From motherhood and fitness to education and hairstyles, here are ten teachings that we'll remember long after the credits roll.
1. Take Control:Order is possible in the midst of chaos. Kate's keen sense of organization makes daily adventures with her eight kids a reality.
2. Get Organized: Organize as much of the chaos that you can, and just roll with the rest. I've always admired how she could mobilize eight kids in under a half hour when it takes me 20 minutes to get my little urchin out the door.
3. Hit the Road:Education doesn't have to happen in school. Kate takes education where ever they go...she is a closet homeschooler!
4. Teach Your Children Well: Kate makes education fun, and she incorporates it into everything they do -- even vacations. The kids learn in hands-on environments, giving them lessons that will last a lifetime
5. Slow Down: The thing that I learned from Kate Gosselin is to take each day one moment at a time. When things seem to be at their worst, recognize that this is a moment in time and it will pass. I can't put a finger on a singular episode that this lesson was gained from. Rather, it came from watching many episodes and seeing her take each moment and dealing with each new challenge one at a time.
6. Turn Lemons into Lemonade: Lesson learned: Never be afraid to reinvent yourself.
7. Trust Yourself: Kate has taught me that you need to do what you feel is right for your kids and stick to your beliefs rather than letting everyone else in the world tell you how to raise your children.
8. Pay Attention: Kate taught me that each child, no matter how many you have, is deserving of your undivided attention. She makes it a priority to have one-on-one dates, cook together, read stories--despite the fact that she is strapped for time.
9. Be Yourself: Kate taught me to make room for myself. Having kids doesn't mean you lose yourself--you can still run, dance, and enjoy life.
10. Enjoy the Moment: I am reminded by Kate Gosselin that the beautiful thing about being a parent is that it keeps you real. Even a person who is a celebrity in the eyes of the world is just "mom" to their kids. Successes, achievements, awards, and honors are nothing compared to the hug of a child who loves you.
Photo: Clark McCarthy-Miller
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