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Brandon Sun - PRINT EDITION

Parenting Points - Make 'Do as I do' parenting motto

By: Shawna Munro

Thursday, May. 10, 2012 | Comments: 0

"Do as I say, not as I do."

Most of us have heard this phrase, and some of us may even have uttered it on occasion.

When it comes to parenting, however, children pay far more attention to what you do than what you say. Parents need to remember that their children are always watching, and therefore make an effort to lead by example.

Leading by example does not mean parents have to be perfect all the time. It means being aware of the values and characteristics that you feel are important, and incorporating them into your daily life.

It also means taking ownership of your mistakes, and passing on lessons learned.

When children are very young, they learn by imitating parents. Babies will return a parent’s smile, and mimic different facial expressions.

Toddlers want to do everything you do. They work alongside you and are eager to please.

A preschooler will often repeat grown-up phrases (good or bad) that she has heard her parents say.

Your children learn how to treat others by observing your daily interactions with people. They learn how to handle disappointment by watching your reactions and responses when things don’t go your way.

They begin to learn about self-respect when they see you make healthy choices for yourself.

Making a conscious effort to lead by example has other benefits than simply helping children learn right from wrong.

While it won’t guarantee complete co-operation, household rules and routines are easier to enforce when you model the behaviour you want to see in your children.

Whether you are teaching the importance of good manners, or values like honesty, generosity and responsibility, the way you approach life has a profound effect on your children.

Many of us just go through the motions in our own lives without really thinking about why we do what we do.

When you are very aware of the example you are setting for your children, your own outlook on life is sure to improve. You might be inspired to kick an unproductive habit, or step out of your comfort zone to try new things.

A parent is a child’s first and most important teacher. By adopting the motto of "Do as I do", you are able to fill this role to the best of your ability.

Shawna Munro works at the Elspeth Reid Family Resource Centre, a facility of Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba that offers parenting information and support.

» 255 Ninth St., Brandon

» 726-6280

Republished from the Brandon Sun print edition May 10, 2012

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"Do as I say, not as I do."

Most of us have heard this phrase, and some of us may even have uttered it on occasion.

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"Do as I say, not as I do."

Most of us have heard this phrase, and some of us may even have uttered it on occasion.

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