Stephanie chidi Osugo
In continuing with my line of thought on the Value of Values, one important thing worthy of note is mentorship in the life of a child.
There are varying schools of thoughts on the importance of mentorship but I want to simply say that it is modeling a way of life to your child, ward or people you come in contact with. This could be consciously done or even unconsciously. One of the women mathematicians who contributed to taking the first man Katherine Johnson to the moon was mentored by her father a farmer.
He most likely didn’t teach her mathematics but according to her story, he could tell how many logs of wood he could get form a tree he fell. (Wish I had that kind of gift, math’s have never been one of my strong points). She started learning how to count for utensils. I wonder how many times her mother would have shouted “please, can you stop making so much” noise her kitchen. Her gift grew, she did what she loved and she contributed immensely to the world yet not because she was looking for the fame, but she enjoyed terribly, what she did.
Take another look at that your child. What interests have you noticed? How can you guide that child in the area of his or her interest? Remember don’t force them into your own mold. Let them learn to solve problems with your guidance. If there is anything parenthood has taught me, it is that no two children are alike. Let them discover the
world, let them bloom and let them fly. You do not know what they are picking up along the way. Just make sure to model the right things and see where it leads.
Remember, you are a mentor. Some little eyes are watching.
