M is for mothering. At times, I got so caught up in teaching my children math and reading that I became more teacher than mom. I had to learn that I’m always a mother first.

This means that when a child becomes impatient with a concept, instead of firmly repeating the lesson, it’s wise to take a good look at the child and consider whether he’s had enough sleep, or if he’s coming down with something, or if the concept is just a little too advanced for him right now and should be postponed for a few weeks or months, instead of thinking “But the curriculum schedule says we need to do this lesson this week!” Never be afraid to let your mothering instinct override your teacher mindset.

(Will your children be tech-savvy? Learn more: “Children, Computers and Time.”)