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.
