Radio Commentary
If you think your children aren’t watching your actions, you’re mistaken.
Children watch adults all the time — especially their parents. And children often imitate what adults do.
So here’s a good tip: Try to model whatever you would like your children to pick up.
If you want your children to be polite, then let them see you being polite in a variety of situations. That’s how they learn.
Next time you’re prone to express some frustration while in the car with your children, stop and remember that they will pick up on how you express your anger.
If you yell, you can bet that sometime, in another situation, your children will be doing their own interpretation of your performance.
Whether it’s a young child trying to make sense of adult behavior, or a teen trying on a variety of personas, young people are more watchful than you realize.
It can be helpful to remember that the spotlight is always shining. Many parents find they benefit in the process, by modifying their behavior for the better.
Of course, no is perfect. If your children see you act in a way you would not like them to behave, take the time to talk and explain the situation.
Remind them that even adults act impulsively and regret their actions at times.
Learning is a never-ending process.
