Chaplains Chat Volume 5

Our Children Are Watching.

From time to time we have all noticed that our children copy what we do. This is called modelling and whether we like it or not our children are watching our every move. From how we speak to them to how we interact with those around us. How we eat our dinner to what we eat.  They see the shows we watch on TV and the movies we watch. They are moulded by us into who and what they will become, and this is why we need to be good role models for our children because our children are watching. This is especially relevant now with our current challenges.

Use Your Own Behaviour To Guide Your Child’s Behaviour.

Your child watches you to get clues on how to behave – and what you do is often much more important than what you say. Our children are so eager to follow in our footsteps from an early age. They learn from observing how we do things and what things we do. It doesn’t matter what other’s may say or do. You are your child’s parents and in their eyes, whatever you do and whatever you say is how they will act and speak. Therefore, if you talk nicely and gently to those around you so will they. If you show respect to others so will they. However, if you don’t speak politely to others, then your children will more than likely do the same when they talk to other people. It is also important in this uncertain time to show your children that everything will work out. I know some have lost employment, and others have health concerns, but our children are watching how you handle this challenge. If you are anxious they will be anxious.

We all have brain fades from time to time.

If our children are watching, then they will see how you handle that brain fade and whatever life throw’s up. So, when we stuff up, and we all do, then we need to own up and fix our stuff up’s. Make things right.

It’s A Big Responsibility To Have Children.

Bring them up in the right way is worth the time and the effort. We will all benefit if we raise responsible children that contribute positively to society. So, if you want your child to say ‘please’, then say it yourself. If you don’t want your child to raise their voice, then speak quietly and gently yourself.

We need to model in our life what we want to see in our children’s life.

Geoff Harrison. Australind Baptist Church. Chaplain.

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