We are all working very hard in Fort Smith to develop a community that works together to prevent crime and activities associated with crime. One way to do this is for each individual citizen to accept his or her citizenship responsibilities and to be a part of a partnership working as a team to prevent crime. This contract that the parents and their children will sign will go a long way toward taking a step in the right direction for crime prevention as we work each day to make "Life Worth Living in Fort Smith."
Sincerely,
Ray Baker, Mayor
City of Fort Smith, Arkansas
Show love to your children often by hugging them and saying "I love you."
Make time for your children every day and actively support their efforts. Praise their efforts often.
Give your children responsibility that is appropriate for their age or abilities.
Help your children set realistic goals. Encourage them to do the best they can.
Accept your children's feelings.
Teach your children that anger is a normal and acceptable feeling. Encourage them to express anger using safe, effective, respectful, and appropriate ways.
Be an active listener by encouraging your children to express their feelings and thoughts, asking respectful questions to better understand their experience, and offering feedback and guidance. Give your children nonverbal support and encouragement such as a hug, a pat on the shoulder, nodding your head, or making eye contact.
Help your children learn from their mistakes by asking questions such as "What can you learn from that?" or "What can you do differently next time?"
