10 Things Your Kids Need to See You Doing
I love embracing positive parenting. I always hated watching parents yell at their kids, and often times I felt that they weren’t setting the best example for their children.
When it comes to being a parent, it may feel like you need to be an image of perfection in front of them, but in reality your kids are okay with you being less than perfect. It’s actually better that they see you for the human being you are, than the perfect person you try to be. But, it’s important to remember that you are teaching them by example.
The Bible tells us: “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.” Titus 2:7
Remember that your children are watching and listening to your every deed and every word. Not just what you say, but how you say it. Modeling the good behavior you want to see in your children is an important responsibility!
10 Things Your Kids Need to See You Doing
These 10 positive parenting actions are things your children absolutely need to see.
#1 Being kind to others
How awesome is it when you see your kid be kind to someone else for no reason or no reward? Pretty amazing. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or give a lot of your time to show your kids how amazing it can be. A simple thank you or have a good day sends the message too.
#2 Clean
This one might sound odd, but it is really important that they see you cleaning. A chore chart around the house, but make sure yours are on there too. Not only will your kids love holding you accountable as well, but it shows them that they’re not the only ones cleaning.
#3 Work
This one might not come to mind, but kids often have a hard time understanding where money comes from. Whether it’s seeing Dad put on his suit and tie or watching you do housework, it’s important to let your kids see you doing work. This will help show them that life doesn’t come for free.
#4 Apologize
One of the best things you can teach your children is to learn to say sorry when they’ve done wrong. When your kids see you apologizing after a mistake, they learn how to apologize. They also learn that this is something they should be doing if they make a mistake.
#5 Smile and be happy
Whenever your kids see you smile, it just might make them smile as well. Putting a smile on your face shows them that you’re happy, and teaches them how to express their own happiness. It also shows them that adults can be happy too!
#6 Read Books and Magazines
Everyone should spend quality time reading. It’s not only good for the mind, but also for kids! Let your kids see you reading to help them develop a love for reading as well. Encourage them to pick up a book with you, and even make family reading time a regular activity in your house.
#7 Drink Water
Most of us probably aren’t drinking enough water, but it’s important to set a good example for our kids. With so many choices out there, water is usually at the bottom of the list. When your kids see you drink water, you are not only teaching them a healthy habit but encouraging them to do the same.
#8 Mind your manners
It can be easy to let the “please” and “thank you”s slip by. When your kids hear you say them, it will make them start saying them as well. Be sure to remind your children when to it needs to be said, and make sure you are setting a good example by doing it as well.
#9 Relax and Have Fun
It’s important to let your kids see you relax and have a little fun. Sometimes we can come across as a strict or hard parent without meaning to. Let your children see you in this relaxed state, and show them that you can still be the fun loving parent.
#10 Be nice
If you want your kids to be nice, you need to be nice too. Let your kids see you being nice to others whether it’s through acts of kindness, or taking the high road in a bad situation. This is a great way to make sure your kids learn different ways to show kindness, and they will want to copy your behavior.
