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Every parent knows that their children look up to them for guidance and approval from a young age. You are their heroes and role models, the people they trust implicitly and aspire to be like. But because you have such a great influence on them, it’s important to be mindful of what you do and how you handle delicate situations. Like isn’t always rosy and everyone faces hurdles, especially your little ones as they are just starting to navigate life. This is why they need you to set a good example in terms of what to do and what not to do. So, how do you become a good role model for your ever observant children? If you’d like to find out then this article is for you. Read on to know more!
1. Be Optimistic About Life
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No, life isn’t a bed of roses and you don’t need to act like everything is okay when it’s not. But hey, who doesn’t like being around someone who can see the silver lining in the worst situations? So the next time you have a bad day or you come home exhausted, try to be enthusiastic about coming home to your family. They need to see parents who are resilient, determined and positive so that they know how to make the most out of a bad situation. Your kids need to learn that it is possible to still find happiness in little things when life isn’t going their way. So being optimistic and teaching them to be the same is one of the best things you could do for your children.
2. Watch Your Tone Of Voice
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Parents are people too and this means sometimes they can be angry or annoyed about something else but take it out on their children instead. This may not mean they yell at their kids for doing absolutely nothing but they can manifest in more subtle ways. Have you ever used a harsh tone while speaking to your kid when they ran up to you and asked you a random question? Yup we’ve been there too. Remember that the way you say things significantly affects your children’s behavior so try not to yell or be offensive when you are communicating with them. Instead, take a step back to cool down and approach your kids with empathy and understanding. Try to be as calm as you can and step away if you are experiencing emotional turmoil. This will teach your kids to do the same.
3. Lead A Healthy Lifestyle
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In today’s day and age, health really is wealth. So teaching your children to be healthy and fit is paramount. The best thing you can do in this front is lead by example. Let your children see you eat balanced meals, prioritize working out and living an active lifestyle. You can take the kids on your evening strolls, allow them to taste one of your healthy smoothies or meals and incorporate the veggies and flavors they like into their own meals. Let them see how you prioritize hygiene by brushing and flossing their teeth right before going to bed. And lastly, make sure you have a bedtime too. Sleeping enough is just as important as the rest. When you take care of yourself, you are really just teaching the kids how to take care of themselves. So be mindful of that and practice good habits that they will sustain throughout their lives.
4. Get Involved In Their Lives
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No you do not have to follow them around throughout the day. In fact, we’re sure that your kids would prefer that you didn’t. But they also need their parents to be genuinely interested in their lives. So, show up for the things that matter. Go to their games and recitals. Try to be friends with the parents of their friends so that you are integrated on some level into their social circle. You can also have small dates with your children. Spend time doing the things they like together. Most kids don’t want to sit in a restaurant for 2 hours. Go to the park with them. Take a fun workshop with them. These things will show them that you care about them deeply. And they will appreciate you for the effort you make.
Raising kids who are good people is easier than you think. All you really have to do is be a good person yourself. So the next time you are wondering how to teach your child important life skills or how to get them to act in more socially acceptable ways, simply lead by example. You are their biggest role model so they will take after you. Happy parenting!
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