Judy Cook, 2013 National Mother of the Year, receiving statue from Connell Branan, American Mothers National President
Judy Cook of Vineyard, Utah was named the 2013 National Mother of the Year by American Mothers during the National Convention at the Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York City on April 27th.
One of the parenting philosophies that Judy believes is, “Rules and guidelines are necessary in order to raise responsible, self-governing children who will be contributing members of society.”
Growing up, Judy learned the importance of family, church, and education. Judy was an honor student in high school and active in student government, drill team, and clubs where she served in leadership positions. She received a college scholarship and graduated with a B.A. and later earned a Master’s Degree in Child Development from San Diego State University. During Judy’s college years she was an honor student, a member of Angel Flight National Honorary Society, Kappa Alpha Theta, the Sweetheart of Alpha Tau Omega, and best of all, she met her husband Fred.
Judy has been married to her husband Fred for fifty-one years. They have four children and twelve grandchildren. She has been involved in her community and supported activities that supported families. One activity the family enjoyed was performing annually at a local nursing home. Judy is a member of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority and the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Judy taught kindergarten and was a Demonstration and Master Teacher and a Kindergarten Consultant. She retired from teaching to raise a family, but she continued to perform with a community theatre and became an award winning Classical Japanese artist. After raising her family, Judy returned to teaching and is currently working in a Special Education kindergarten.
Judy has learned a lot as a mother. “I have learned never to take anything, anyone, or any situation for granted, to take advantage of any moment to enjoy a loved one or to teach a concept.”
PHILOSOPHY ON PARENTING
Judy believes the following to be true: Parenthood is a partnership with God. His inspiration and guidance is essential in order to lovingly nurture the bodies, minds, and spirits of children. Rules and guidelines are necessary in order to raise responsible, self-governing children who will be contributing members of society. If children are taught, by living with, the attitudes of compassion, charity, forgiveness, respectful two-way communication, gratitude, and reverence for life…that is the way they will be. Individual differences and needs must be recognized and met. “Fair” means that each child receives what he needs and not that every child receives the same thing. We cannot expect ourselves to be perfect parents, but we can expect ourselves to do our very best. Then, children will now that they are valued and loved.
HOW HAS BEING A MOTHER HAS IMPACTED YOUR LIFE
Being a mother has allowed me to experience great joy and great heartache, as well. Motherhood taught me much about my partnership with God, about human nature and about myself. I have learned the meaning of unconditional love and unwavering patience, the importance of a sense of humor and gratitude…especially for the small things in life. I have learned never to take anything, anyone, or any situation for granted, to take advantage of any moment to enjoy a loved one or to teach a concept. In addition to being a teacher to our children, I have been, and still am, a student, as well.