Who are our children’s role models? They are going to imitate others, in fact children learn what is acceptable and not appropriate by watching what others do and say. First on that list of role models and most important of all is a child’s parents. As the child gets older though they will be influenced by others beyond their parents including athletes, musicians, those in the movies or television, coaches and religious leaders. In fact anyone that they get to observe – even politicians who they observe in the news.
With all of these influences, as parents we want to ask ourselves “Who are we surrounding our children with?” This would include what we are reading, watching, playing and being coached by. Are they the kind of people with the attitudes we want to display to influence us? We hope that all of our children have strong role models who possess the qualities that represent the values, morals and ethics that our family and community stand for.
First though, how can we be a positive role model for our children and for any others that may be observing us – and yes they all are observing us, even if when we do not know when they are watching? Here are 6 ways we can be a positive role model to our children:
- Make positive choices and allow your child see & hear you make the choice. They need to see the process of making choices, and how to work through a problem.
- Be willing to apologize and admit when you have made a mistake. This also comes with showing them how you repair the damage done.
- Demonstrate responsibility by completing tasks, being on time, keeping your promises, setting and completing your goals.
- Showing the value of others by your attitude, way you speak of others, and showing gratitude when others help you.
- While our children see us as “parents” it is good for them to see us having other interests and passions. Balancing our life’s roles sets a good example of success for our children.
- Have them see us as confident as to who we are and still working on constant and never ending improvement.
Now the question is – beyond their parents – who else does your child view as a role model? Are they demonstrating the kind of attitude and character that you would like to see you children grow to being? Remember – Surround your self with the kind of person you would like to become. Who are your role models?