Once kids come along, you have to ditch your selfish, self-centered lifestyle and concentrate on taking care of another person. For many parents, this transition is not easy and they still act like kids during times of stress. We all know at least one man-child or woman who acts more like a teenager than a 40-something mother. This type of parent sets a bad example to their kids and their offspring will grow up without a sense of boundaries or appropriate behavior. Nobody wants kids like that around; they are a nightmare. Here are some key examples of different ways you can set a good example to your kids during their formative years.
Work Ethic
A strong work ethic is vital for future success. Securing a high-paying job is not a ticket to happiness, but material wealth sure makes life easier. The best way to teach your kids a work ethic is to set them a good example. If they see you working hard, they are more likely to follow your good example once they are old enough to work. For example, if you want to become a certified nurse midwife, go back to college and study. It will be tough for a few years, but watching you juggle study and work to become a qualified nurse midwife will help your kids see the value of hard work.
Conflict Resolution
Learning how to resolve conflicts without resorting to physical violence or verbal abuse is something all kids should learn. As a parent, you can set a good example by dealing with conflict within the family in a fair-minded and calm way. Instead of losing your temper when your teenager crosses the line, or having a screaming row with your partner in front of the kids, take a step back and resolve the conflict using discussion and negotiation. It’s better for you and it sets a good example for your kids.
Embrace Diversity
Kids learn bigotry and other unpleasant attitudes from their parents, so if you are racist or bigoted, your kids will grow up the same way. We live in a diverse country where people of different ethnicities and religion live side by side. If you want your children to grow up with an inclusive attitude towards others, teach them to respect others from a young age. The more kids learn to embrace the differences between people, the more open-minded they will be as adults.
Be Compassionate
Kids are all different and some navigate the path into adulthood with more problems than others do. Teach your children to behave with compassion at all times, so if there is a kid in their class who struggles to fit in, encourage them to be a friend by showing compassion to others in everyday life. For example, reach out to an elderly neighbor and offer them help with the garden or chores. Doing this sets a good example to your children.
It’s hard being a parent, but the more effort you put in, the more your kids will make you proud once they reach adulthood.
Brought to you by our friend, Carol.