Issue 8 | 06 Jan. 2007

Role Modeling in Parenting

"Children have never been good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them."

Children observe and imitate their parents. They pick up words, actions, and manners from them. Thus, if you want your child to read books read them yourself. If you want him to be honest, be honest yourself. If you want him to say 'sorry' you learn to say 'sorry'.

Many behavioral reactions, idiosyncrasies, attitudes and standards may be acquired without direct training or reward by the process of identification. The children will identify with parents.

'The really tough thing about being a parent is that you have to be the sort of person you want your children to become,' said Myra Ellen Babeau.

If you have a habit of being late for schedules, don't be surprised if your daughter becomes a latecomer. The irresponsible and careless attitude has simply passed on to her. In our day-to-day life some of the things that the children learn from adults are:

"Showing love for elders of the family
"Understanding the meaning of 'no'
"Paying respect to each other
"Keeping things at their proper places
"Speaking in appropriate manner
"Being punctual and respecting deadlines
"Settling disputes without quarrelling
"Understanding the importance of money
"Saying 'no' to drugs, alcohol, smoking
The consequence of bad examples can never be offset through good advice or pious exhortations.
There is nothing like "Perfect Parenting". Don't expect to have a "Dream child". There are no "magical" rules to bring up children better than the "others". There are no awards for being 'ideal' parent.
• Be honest and genuine with your child
• Respect him as an individual
• Give unconditional love and care
• Watch your words when you say something to the child
• Be a good example to your child

For better communication skills drop in at Prerana - An Academy for Growth and guidance, # 34/14, 3rd Main, 38th A Cross, 8th Block Jayanagar, Bangalore 560 082 or contact Meera Ravi, family counselor on  Ph : 26566 808 Cell : 99800 - 72005 or log on to Website www.preranaacademy.com.