Children learn valuable life lessons and skills by watching those around them. As a parent, you’ll be one of your children’s biggest influencers. While your children watch everything you do, it’s crucial to model positive behaviors and avoid a “do as I say, not as I do” mentality. Thankfully, a few simple behaviors you can model will make a huge difference in your children’s lives moving forward. Here are some suggestions from Weiner Elementary.
Further Your Education
It’s never too late to go back to school, and there are numerous potential benefits of doing so. A college degree could increase your pay potential, expand your job options, and boost confidence. Plus, you’ll show your children they can achieve their goals, too.
Consider earning a degree in information technology , which provides many skills in high demand in today’s workplace. You can pursue your degree online so you can still keep your job, be there for your children, and take care of your other responsibilities while in school.
Don’t Be Afraid To Apologize
Too often, parents forget to apologize when they’re wrong. However, becoming a parent doesn’t automatically mean you never make mistakes. Mistakes, errors, and even failures are part of life, no matter your age.
Start vocalizing when you make a mistake and apologize when you’re wrong, even when it’s difficult. In turn, your children will learn to admit defeats, accept their own mistakes, and apologize when they’re in error.
Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
About 1.7% of children between the ages of 12–17 have alcohol use disorder. Another recent study showed that more than 41% of high school seniors had used an illicit drug at least once, while more than 36% of that same group had used marijuana at least once.
Most parents will discuss the dangers of drugs and alcohol with their children at some point during high school or middle school. Most schools also have programs about the dangers of substance abuse. However, the best thing you can do for your children is avoid drugs and alcohol yourself. When children see their parents partake in these activities, they’re significantly more likely to experiment themselves.
Plan to be Active
Everyone knows there are numerous benefits to exercising. However, exercise doesn’t have to mean jogging or lifting weights. Planning active family outings at least once a week can make a huge difference.
For example, you could spend a day exploring the woods and use it as an educational opportunity to teach your kids about local plant and animal life. Or you could plan a day trip to the beach to relax, swim, or play in the sand. Help your children gather seashells for future crafts and identify various flora and fauna along the way.
If you can’t make it outside due to scheduling or adverse weather, you can still model the importance of being active at home. For example, you can work in some chair dips or lunges while preparing a healthy dinner. Your children will grow to understand the importance of healthy choices and how they lead to a healthy life.
See the Doctor
Another aspect of maintaining a healthy life for yourself and your children is regular visits to the doctor, but it can be a challenge when juggling work, school, and home life. Fortunately, a virtual doctor visit saves time by enabling you to talk to a physician from the comfort of home. With online doctor services, you can book same-day appointments, see a licensed doctor, and have any necessary prescriptions sent to your local pharmacy. With an online membership, you can also take advantage of urgent care needs, as well as work with a therapist for optimal mental health. Caring your overall health is a vital behavior, and modeling that behavior, even through telemedicine, is important for your kids.
Be a Positive Role Model for Your Children
Being a positive role model will set your children up for success and wellness as they grow. You can prepare them for a healthy and successful adulthood by modeling positive behaviors as they grow.
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