The reality is that genetics play a significant role in our child’s personality and development. They come pre-loaded, so to speak, with traits such as temperament, intelligence, resiliency, emotional capacity, and much more. Some of us know within a few hours of the new baby’s birth–uh oh, this kid is exactly like me, and he/she is going to give me a serious run for my money. And that’s just day one. You’ve got years of reality ahead of you. Sleep Eating healthy Potty-training Shopping Eating out Loving their siblings Doing their chores Doing their homework Learning to drive The most important thing you can do: be there for your kids. Let go of control and forget everything you read in the books or saw in the movies. Embrace the chaos and love your child for the imperfect human being he or she is, and they will love you for the imperfect parent you are.