Parenting 101: The Importance of Modeling Good Behavior

Every parent wants their children to grow up to be loving, responsible adults. We do everything in our power to teach them right from wrong and how to get along well with their friends. We try to teach them to respect their elders and live a life filled with love and companionship. However, sometimes the words that come out of our mouths don’t reflect the way we act. Have you ever stopped to wonder how your actions could be interfering with the message you are trying to pass on to your kids? Let’s look at some of the ways in which we can be cognizant of better ways to model good behavior.

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Keeping Angry Words in Check

It goes without saying that everyone gets angry at some point. We are human. However, all the expletives that come out of our mouths aren’t what we would like our children to parrot. Some parents have made a game of it with their children to show them just how wrong it is to sprout obscenities. They put a piggy bank or coffee can with a slit in the lid on a shelf. Every time an adult breaks the cardinal rule and utters one of the ‘no-no’ words, they put a quarter or even a dollar in the can. At the end of every month, the kids tally the ‘bank’ and get to spend it on a treat or toy. It’s one way to teach the cost of inappropriate language. They surely wouldn’t like to be the one depositing that money!

People of Faith Must Live the Message

Let’s take Christianity as an example. So many families profess to be Christians but don’t live the Gospel message. We forget that Jesus came to teach the message of love. Perhaps we see people in need and walk by as if it’s not our concern. Maybe we talk about God but don’t belong to a faith-filled community. In order to remind ourselves that we truly do believe in the Gospel message of “love one another as I have loved you,” is to perhaps wear a cross around our neck. Any pendant or ring that has an emblem of faith can be our reminder that we are here for a purpose. These can easily be found in online religious stores like holyart.com. However, it is important to use these religious items as a reminder. They are more than jewelry and more than just a sign of our faith. They should be a reminder of how we should be living.

Be Continually on Guard

Even though we live life in the fast lane, it is imperative to be ever mindful of how our actions can be perceived. Bear in mind that little children look up to their parents and will mimic things they say and do. Take the time to regularly assess how you are acting and if it is teaching a message contrary to how you would have your kids behave. It isn’t always going to be easy, but with time and effort, it can be done. You’re doing it for them, after all, so it’s well worth the effort.

Read more: 10 Effective Digital Parenting Tips Every Parent Should Know