Some people think schoolteachers are the best teachers for children. Children can learn everything from school. But in my country, we think parents are the first and best teachers. In my opinion, I think parents are the best teachers, because parents love their children more than anybody else, children are most influenced by their parents, and finally, parents teach their children more by example.

Firstly, parents love their children more than anybody else. They give children the greatest affection and patience. When their children suffer failure, they will encourage them. When their children make some progress, they will praise and reward them. I think education infused with love is most effective.

Secondly, children live a very longtime with their parents, for about as long as eighteen years. Children only spend about six to eight hours on studying in school. After school, they continue to stay with their parents. When they back home, they eat, talk, and argue only with their family members. Therefore, children are most influenced by their parent.

Finally, parents teach their children more by examples. Sometimes, parents teach their children in words. Most of time, children imitate what their parents do. Children usually regard their parents as examples to follow. When I was a child, my parents taught me how to wash clothes and cook food by example. As a result, parents teach their children much better than schoolteachers do.

In conclusion, parents are the best teachers for children because they treat their children with the greatest fondness. They influence their children almost in every way, and teach their children by example as well as instruction.

April 2003