Though it may sound strange to our ears, it is good to hear from men of old. Consider the following directives from Richard Baxter.
Richard Baxter, 1664:
“Speaking of the importance of wise, holy education of children is to the saving of their souls, the comfort of their parents, the good of church and state, and the happiness of the world.
Direct XI. For sports and recreations, let them be such, and so much, as may be needful to their health and cheerfulness; but not so much as may carry away their minds from better things, and draw them from their books or other duties, nor such as may tempt them to gaming or covetousness.
Direct XII. Use all your wisdom and diligence to root out the sin of pride.
Direct XIII. Speak to them disgracefully of the gallantry, and pomp, and riches of the world, and of the sin of selfishness and covetousness, and diligently watch against it, and all that may tempt them to it.
Direct XIV. Narrowly watch their tongues, especially against lying, railing, ribald talk, and taking the name of God in vain.
Direct XV. Keep them as much as may be from ill company, especially of ungodly play-fellows.
Direct XVI. Teach your children to know the preciousness of time, and suffer them not to mispend an hour.
Direct XVII. Let necessary correction be used with discretion.
Direct XVIII. Let your own example teach your children that holiness, and heavenliness, and blamelessness of tongue and life, which you desire them and to learn and practise.
Direct XIX. Choose such a calling and course of life for your children, as tendeth most to the saving of their souls, kind to their public usefulness for church or state.
Direct XX. When they are marriageable, and you find it needful, look out such for them as are suitable betimes.”
(The Duties of Parents for Their Children, The Practical Works of Richard Baxter, Vol. 1, Chap. X, pp. 449-454)
