Setting a Positive Example for Your Children

Have you ever heard someone say, “You’re just like your mother?”

Parents have enormous influence over the people their children become. It is our responsibility to be strong, positive role models, and to show by doing. You can talk the talk, but it’s much more effective if you walk the walk too. Lead by example and teach your child to be gracious and generous.

Every day I engage in simple acts of kindness in my daughter’s presence. She accompanies me everywhere, and as you know, frequent grocery shopping trips are a staple of mom’s life. Each time we visit a store, I plan ahead and stay relaxed. There’s no sense bringing extra stress into a situation. Your child will pick up on your anxiety. If you enjoy your shopping experience, so will he/she.

My daughter loves going to the store. She loves sitting in the shopping cart and watching me pick things out, and I love teaching her while we are there. We also play silly games to keep it interactive. The most important lesson I teach her while we are at the store is being nice to others. I do little things, such as holding doors for people, smiling and saying hello, and letting others go ahead of me in line or at a shopping isle intersection if we arrive at the same time.

I know she will pick up on my positive, friendly nature and employ this attitude in her own life. Start young! My daughter is only one, but I know she’s paying attention. Little things count. You child is paying attention. Strive every day to be an excellent role model in everything you do.