Teaching children is not just about teaching them, but also about how to survive in life. The Ralph and Sherry Opacic family is a living example of this. They raised their four daughters to create an environment that valued honesty, creativity, open communication, and the freedom to take risks. This article is about ways and small experiences you can cultivate in your own home to raise strong, independent, resilient, and compassionate children.
About Ralph and Sherry and their vision
Ralph Opacic left a deep mark on arts education and founded the Orange County School of the Arts, which became a landmark institution for arts education in Southern California.
Sherry Opacic worked in public education for more than four decades, working at the county level in curriculum and leadership development. Her educational background and community service provided a stable foundation for family upbringing.
The two share their insights on education and leadership through the Opacic Consulting Group and also publicly share their family experiences.
Understanding and Dealing with the Generation Gap
Technology, mindsets, and fashions change with each generation. But core values rarely change. Ralph and Sherry believe that family stories and family memories give children roots. When you share your own experiences with your children, you give them both roots and flight. Small anecdotes, humor, and hardships—these all signal to children that struggles are temporary and that family is always there.
What can you do? Make old stories a topic of conversation rather than a rule of thumb in your home. Set aside one evening each week for everyone to share their memories, big or small. This helps children understand their heritage, and that tradition gives them confidence.
Forming bonds in early childhood
The bond that forms between parent and child early on lays the foundation for lifelong relationships. Ralph and Sherry made their home a place of creativity and expression. Playing the piano, painting, walking on the beach-these everyday habits build deep bonds. Small celebrations, family pool parties, and games together make these memories last.
What can you do today? Spend time with your child without an agenda. A short art activity or reading a story is a wonderful way to do it. And when your child expresses an interest, listen and show enthusiasm. These small, creative routines help children express themselves.
Safety and open communication in middle childhood
Consistency and respectful communication are important in middle childhood. The Opachi family places special emphasis on conversations around dinner. They say that talking openly during free time builds trust. When you can talk to your child about all kinds of things, he or she will bring up hidden fears and dilemmas.
Keep your behavior simple. Starting with a simple daily question like, “How was school today?” can gradually lead to deeper conversations. Don’t judge your child; listen before you react. Don’t be too harsh in judgment, but keep boundaries clear. This helps children learn both independence and security.
Challenges and opportunities in adolescence
Adolescence is a time of questions and exploration. It is the age when children learn to stand on their own feet and identify their dreams. Ralph and Sherry gave their daughters the freedom to explore. One daughter decided to move to Nashville to pursue music, and her parents supported her. That support changed her path. This example shows that sometimes the greatest support is permission to walk away.
What can you do? Encourage your teen to seek out new places and experiences. But also let them know that you will be there when things get tough. In today’s world, risk and opportunity go hand in hand; teach them how to take responsibility for new challenges.
Developing the ability to learn from failure
Strong and resilient children are those who don’t view failure as permanent defeat. In the Opacic family, the “freedom to make mistakes” was encouraged. When children make decisions on their own and are wrong, home becomes a place of learning rather than a place of protection.
Allow your child to take small risks. When he falls, show empathy, ask for solutions, and then watch him get back up. This process develops a child’s problem-solving skills and self-confidence.
Teaching kindness and empathy
Strength is not just about personal success. Kindness and empathy are just as important. The Opacic family actively participated in community service and charity. Through these activities, children understand the pain of others’ lives and develop compassion in themselves.
Involve your child in a community event or a small charity. Ask them how they like to help. These small steps lay the foundation for big character building.
Lasting impact and family legacy
What are the things that don’t change with time? Family traditions, honesty, and being there for each other. Those are the qualities the Opacic daughters show today. They are passing on their childhood memories to their children. This way, a positive legacy continues.
A short message in closing
There is no magic formula to raise your children to be strong, independent, resilient, and kind. But small everyday habits, your way of listening, your patience, and your support make a big difference. Ralph and Sherry’s story is a reminder that rules, art, and open communication, combined with love, give children a safe wing. You can also start small today. Maybe tell a story, maybe take up a new activity together. These small steps will become your child’s great strength in the future.
