The livestock project is one of the best projects for children to learn valuable life lessons. Stock show parents play an important role in helping their kids, both human and goat, shine in the show ring.
That being said, there are important things that stock show parents need to remember.
Here are the 10 commandments every stock show parent needs to follow.
Thou shalt not feed, train and care for the animal, for thou art trying to teach the child responsibility.
While it's okay to help your child with needed reminders to take care of the animal or by lifting a feed bucket that's too heavy, it's not okay to do all the work for them.
Thou shalt forgive a child for making mistakes in the show ring, for thou hath made mistakes too.
The livestock project involves a lot of learning by doing. Part of that is learning from one's mistakes.
Thou shalt not get mad when thy child forgets items in the show box, for one day thou may forget the show box.
Even with a list, it's easy to forget something that belongs in the tack box.
Thou shalt help the show management, for they are doing a job that thou would not want to do.
It's not a fun job to make sure everyone is following the rules.
Thou shalt see that thy child is on time for all show activities, for thou would not want to wait on another.
There's always going to be that one person that is late to the show arena. Have you ever noticed how frustrated everyone is when that happens? I bet you don't want to be that person, so don't let your kids sleep on the job.
Thou shalt be sure that thy child has the animals entered and the registration papers in order by the designated time.
Let's face it, no one likes the paperwork involved with getting animals ready for a show. It's a great skill for your child to learn, but they may need some help along the way.
Thou shalt teach the child that winning a blue ribbon is a desirable goal, but making friends along the way is a more worthy goal.
Ribbons fade, but true friendship never does, whether it's with the animal or fellow showmen.
Thou shalt not complain about the judge, for it is their opinion that has been sought.
Remember that it's one person's opinion on one day.
Thou shalt remember that livestock projects are teaching projects, not necessarily money-making projects.
The life lessons your child can gain from the livestock project are priceless.
Thou shalt remember that the livestock project is a family project that shall be enjoyed and supported by the entire family.
This doesn't mean that everyone has to personally enjoy showing livestock. Your daughter may love showing cattle, while your son prefers the aerospace project. Teach your children to support each other and enjoy each other's happiness.
