Parenting: Teaching by Actions, Not Words

Teach by Example

No matter what we tell our children, they will more closely immitate what we do rather than abide by what we say. If we park in a handicap parking space when we are not handicapped, lie to others to get out of doing something, or otherwise shirk our responsibility, they will understand that while we may teach one thing we do something else. No matter what we are trying to teach, our example will always speak louder than our words. Structure

Children need and appreciate structure in their lives. It teaches them what to expect, thus provided security. Have a routine and stick to it. If a child knows that he must eat breakfast, brush his teeth and get dressed before he can watch TV or go out and play, this provides the

A balanced childhood will produce a well rounded person. We often overlook the importance of play. Just as we have our jobs as adults, a child 's job is to learn, and most learning occurs through play. Play teaches in a way that a child readily accepts. It is how children learn to do basic activities such as talking, dressing themselves, doing basic chores, and improving their health (through sports). It gives children a sense of enjoyment of life. It encourages positive interactions wth others. This begins when the child is a baby. Their main interaction at this stage is with parents and siblings. Playing with the child builds bonds that make baby feel secure, loved, and safe while it teaches an attitude of

Sports are definitely important in child development. Depending on the sport it teaches many things. Some sports teach teamwork. This will be useful later in friendships, marriages, and at work. Many sports strengthen muscles and promote coordination, as well as balance and footwork. Most adults will do some form of physiical work, either at a job or at home, so this is important in preparing a child for future tasks as well as maintaing healthy exercise. Some require rather intense concentration. This is useful in studying and in mentally challenging jobs. A variety of sports teach discipline. This is an attribute to be