Actions speak louder than words. Don't just preach to your child. Set an example for him to follow.
True, it is easy to order children around and tell them what they
should and should not do, but such dictates work best when followed by
examples. We must set good examples for the children to follow.
Respect
Be respectful to the people around you, especially to the old and the
poor. If your little daughter hears you foul-mouthing your domestic
help, don't be surprised if she soon directs those same words to her
little brother.
Empathy
Show empathy towards others. If there are elders or needy members in the family, try to understand their points of view
and their feelings. Try to find ways of talking through your
differences and solving problems in an amicable way. Children will then
realize the importance of caring for the needy and also learn the
values of tolerance and co-existence.
Charity
Take up some charitable activities. Once in a while take your
child along to see what you are doing. Demonstrate that there are
plenty of positive ways to make an impact on the world.
Time
Value your time if you want them to value theirs. If the kids
find you collapsing in front of the television every time, they will
definitely follow suit. They also are very likely to spend all their
time channel surfing. You can surely find better ways of entertainment
and relaxation than pressing buttons on the remote. So let them find
you reading a book or gardening or doing something creative.
Promises
Always keep your promises no matter how small. To raise a
trustworthy child you have to be a trustworthy adult. Even if it means
taking them out for an ice-cream at the end of a hectic day, live up to
your promise. If however, because of some exigency you are unable to
keep your promise, explain to them the exact reason and tell them that
you will make up for it next time.
Priceless pleasure
Nowadays children are bombarded with materialistic messages
from all sides. We cannot blame them for believing that happiness lies
in buying the latest gadgets and gizmos or the best clothes.
Show them that this is not true. Spend time with your
children. In the weekend cook something simple involving them as well,
and sit and eat together. Go for walks or sit in the garden together
and chat rather than rushing to the malls every time you want to go
out. At times organize some religious activity within the family and
make them help-maybe with the decoration i.e. flowers or rangoli.
Take joy in these little things. Material items provide short-lived
happiness. This way your children will learn to value the simple things
in life.
