For New Parents

First and foremost: Smile all the time. Never let them see you not smiling even when they are crying.

Talk to them. Start with simple sounds when they are born. They will want to imitate you. Throughout their childhood, remember how they were so keen to imitate you. Don't do anything you wouldn't want them to imitate. There's no such thing as too early. My oldest daughter started mimicking sounds at three weeks.

If you have the means, travel with them. Take them everywhere you go. It's your responsibility to let them see you living.

Make sure they learn at least one other language and continue to use it daily. You may have to learn a foreign language yourself to accomplish this but that won't hurt a thing, the more languages, the better, within reason and means. If means are limited, cut out something YOU don't need: cable TV, new car, new furniture, new appliances, new clothes, booze, cigarettes, and any other selfish indulgence of which you no longer have the luxury.

Don't over-indulge them.  The phrase "The children are our future" isn't quite right. This mindset causes what we see so often: selfish, disrespectful children who really believe the world revolves around them and their needs and desires. We are our children's future. We are not a lost cause. We need to lead by example, even when they aren't looking. Conduct yourself in all situations as if they were right next to you. If you wouldn't do it in front of them, don't do it at all. If you aren't there yet, make it your goal to get there. If you don't, the downward spiral continues with your assistance.