The Things We Model To Our Children Whether We Realize It Or Not
Children learn by observing our behaviors
Parenting is a huge responsibility. You must teach your children how to be successful in life and manage their emotions effectively. It can be tough even at the best of times, but it’s also important. Children follow in the footsteps of their parents, so you must ensure that you set a good example for them.
Here are some of the things you model for your children on a daily basis whether you are aware or not.
How we manage strong emotions
One of the most important things that you model to your children is how to manage their emotions. If you’re always yelling and getting angry, they’re going to think that that’s normal and acceptable behavior. On the other hand, if you’re always calm and collected, they’ll learn to handle their emotions in a more constructive way. It’s important to remember that your children are always watching and learning from you, so make sure you set a good example for them.
How we handle stress
Another thing you model to your children is how to deal with stress and adversity. If you’re always crumbling under the pressure, they’ll think that that’s how they’re supposed to handle stress. Instead, try to model a more positive attitude towards stress and adversity. Show them that it’s possible to stay calm and collected in the face of tough circumstances.
How we speak to those around us
One of the things we model to our children is how to speak to those around us. If we’re always speaking harshly or using profanity, they’ll think that it’s okay to do the same. Instead, try to lead by example and speak kindly to those around you. This will help your children learn how to communicate effectively and respectfully.
How we handle mistakes
We model how we handle our mistakes to our children. If we’re always getting angry or upset when we make a mistake, they’ll think that it’s not okay to make mistakes. Instead, try to show them that it’s normal to make mistakes and that it’s possible to learn from them. Help them understand that everyone makes mistakes and that the important thing is to learn from them.
How we treat our bodies
We all know that children learn by example. If you want your children to be confident in taking care of themselves too, then start practicing the habits that you want them to have.
Another thing we model to our children is how to treat our bodies. If we’re always eating junk food or neglecting exercise, they’ll think that it’s normal behavior. Instead, try to show them that it’s possible to live a healthy lifestyle. Help them understand the importance of eating nutritious food and staying active.
How we use electronics
Another thing we model for our kids is how we use electronics. If you’re always on your phone or tablet, they’re going to think that it’s normal to be glued to a screen all the time. Instead, try to put your phone away during meal times or when you’re spending time with them.
Explain to them why you’re putting your phone away and encourage them to do the same when they’re using their own devices. Try to set a good example for them so that they can learn how to balance their electronic use with real-life interactions.
How we resolve conflict
We also model how to resolve conflict for our children. If you’re always yelling or arguing with others, they’re going to think that it’s normal to handle disagreements in that way. Instead, try to model calm and respectful communication.
It’s important to remember that your children are watching everything you do, even when you think they’re not paying attention. Model the behavior that you want them to learn and they will eventually follow your lead.
How we act when frustrated
We’ve all been there before — we’re trying to do something and it’s just not working. Maybe we’re trying to fix a broken appliance or figure out how to use a new piece of technology. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to model calm and patience when we’re feeling frustrated.
Yelling and throwing things will only make the situation worse and it’ll set a bad example for our children. Instead, take a deep breath and try to think of a different way to approach the problem. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective to find the solution.
How we problem solve
When we’re faced with a problem, it’s important to model how to solve it in a calm and effective way. This is another opportunity to teach our children that there are different ways of approaching a situation.
If we can show our children how to effectively solve problems, they’ll be better equipped to handle challenges later on in life. And who knows, maybe they’ll even come up with some solutions that we never would have thought of!
How we take responsibility
How we take responsibility for our actions is another thing that we model to our children. If we make a mistake, it’s important to own up to it and apologize. This shows our children that it’s okay to make mistakes and that we’re willing to take responsibility for our actions. It also sets a good example for them to follow when they make their own mistakes.
How we respond to disappointment
We all feel disappointed from time to time. It’s a normal emotion that everyone experiences. But it’s important to model how to deal with disappointment in a healthy way for our children by remaining calm and patient.
How we ask for help
It’s okay to admit that you don’t know everything. We learn new things every day and sometimes we need help from others. Modeling humility will show your children that it’s okay to ask for help and that we can all learn from each other.
How we parent
One thing you model is how you parent. This includes the way you discipline your children, how you talk to them, and what expectations you have for their behavior. If you want your children to be respectful, then you need to be respectful yourself. You also need to listen to them when they talk and answer their questions honestly.
Conclusion
You may not realize that your children are already seeing how you manage your emotions and work with others. Your kids might already be seeing the way that you handle conflict, communicate effectively, or solve problems.
We can have a positive influence on our children by modeling the things we want them to learn in life. It’s important to take responsibility, deal with bad moments, express ourselves openly and honestly, ask for help when needed, and set realistic expectations. Our children are constantly observing us and taking note of our actions. So let’s make sure we are setting a good example for them!
