National Families Week
I was asked recently what kind of families attend our centres. I thought it was a strange question and although certainly not intended to be, it was a little offensive, as though there was just one “kind” of family, but then I thought a little deeper….
I have been so fortunate to have met thousands of families in my years of teaching and
each has been beautifully unique but the families that commit to the culture and truly become part of the Fit Kidz community do have one thing in common. Families who believe deeply that LOVE makes a family, are the perfect fit for us. Your family may not be blood related, at times it may be dysfunctional and challenged but the love is there.
I think there are other core values that make a family as well. To celebrate National Families Week, here are our core values;
Acceptance & Empathy – There are adoptive and foster parent families, single-parent
families, families with two Mums or two Dads, one mum and one dad, and families with grandparents raising the children. Acceptance and empathy for everyone’s situation is an essential part of being a family. It is also the basis where we learn to give grace to others outside our family without judgement.
Forgiveness & Understanding – Forgiveness can go hand in hand with grace sometimes. Often forgiveness may be difficult to give; it may even be undeserved. Sometimes forgiveness is given even when it is not preceded with an apology. Being a family means constantly forgiving, big stuff and small stuff…for me today, forgiving my boys for “accidently” eating my Mother’s day chocolates while home schooling!
Loyalty – Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines loyalty as “unswerving in allegiance.” Family means standing by each other and being faithful to all members of the family no matter what happens in life. It is one of the most beautiful, secure feelings to know that your family will be there for you at all times.
Respect & Kindness – this makes a family happy, whole, and thriving. We may not always agree with the choices our family members make on a day-to-day basis or in life, however a family respects and celebrates those differences. Our differences are what make us special and unique.
Support – It may be as little as making time to go to school functions, football games, or special days at school or helping with patience during challenging times. Family means knowing the members of it will always be there for you when needed.
Trust – is one of the most important values in our family. It is what allows us to take risks, dream big, and show up every day being vulnerable, honest, and able to share our hopes, goals and fears. Trust allows us to grow, succeed and find healthy, safe relationships outside of our families.
Unconditional LOVE – Family means unconditional love. My family knows there is nothing they can do, say, or believe that will affect my love for them. Unconditional love is one of the strongest bonds in a family. It is what keeps everyone together through the good times and bad, understanding and knowing that no matter what happens in life, we will always have each other.
Thank you for being part of our Fit Kidz family and Happy National Families Week.
Mel xx
