SPANISH FORT, Ala. — As we usher in the brand new year of 2008 an outline of gifts that I have collected from several resources over the years as a teacher, mom, and person.

The following are gift resolutions to your child for 2008!

1. Have a cheerful disposition with your child — Your child is so very, very special to you. Celebrate your child by spending time with your child and planning special activities. Children will pick up on your happy attitude and model your positive outlook. Happiness and a smile are contagious. Smile at folks and they will smile back, I promise!

2. Remember to compliment your child — As they try step by step to accomplish a small task encourage them with verbal praise each step of the way. Praise those Crayon colored pictures or Kleenex gifts.

I stress to my students that each little snowflake is unique and different and so are they. Everyone needs encouragmemt time and again, we all do!

3. Be a good listener for your child — Really listen to your child without interrupting their little thoughts. You will be pleasantly surprised at what your young child will say.

What a gift to extend to your child to make them feel that they are the only ones in your world.

Time well spent with your child contributes to their success, and adjustment to the world.

4. Give your child the gift of affection — Be generous with appropriate hugs, pats on the back and handholds.

A simple hug can crown your child with joy, happiness and security. So stretch those arms without delay and give your child a hug today.

5. Laugh with your child — Be a kid again and laugh at wholesome, humorous situations with your child! Laughter relieves stress in family situations and just makes you feel better.

Look at appropriate cartoons, jokes, articles and funny stories. Your gift of laughter with your child will say, "I love to laugh with you!"

6. Give the gift of a written note — Send those “I love you” notes in lunches, thank-you notes on their pillows, or even an upbeat message on their mirror. Be creative with this!

The little brief expressions of you are special will be remembered for a lifetime or change a life, you just never know!

I have seen so many little ones smile when they see a smiley face with the words “I love you in their lunch boxes.

7. You can't outdo a child in doing special favors for them — There are many opportunities that don't cost a thing that will make your child feel special! Reading to your child is a favor to your child.

As we approach 2008 remember time spent is a gift that your child will never forget!

Beth Pinyerd serves as Director of Young Children at Faith Family fellowship in Spanish Fort, Ala.